Varicose veins

Varicose veins are bluish, lumpy, distorted veins that bulge beneath the skin. They most commonly develop inside the leg, on the back of the calf, or round the ankles. Varicose veins are caused by faulty valves in the veins and weakened vein walls. The ankles can swell, the leg may feel heavy, and the skin over the veins can be dry and itchy

Causes

• Lack of daily walking. Walking boosts circulation in the legs and exercises the malfunctioning vein valves
• Constipation and straining in the toilet
• Processed food diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates like bread, cake, jams, breakfast cereal, sweets etc. Lack of fresh vegetables and fruit, unprocessed whole grain cereals and brown rice
• Genetic - more common in women and runs in families
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Standing for long periods. If you cannot avoid standing, such as at work, then flex your calf muscles and wiggle your toes every few minutes
• Sitting for long periods. Get up every half hour and walk around
• Crossing your legs. Do not cross your legs when you sit, as it restricts blood flow