Tips for healthy legs

• Working in a sedentary job?
• Standing for long periods of time?
• Overweight? Have you have been pregnant recently?
• Family history of varicose veins?

These are all recognised as factors which may cause you to be more prone to varicose veins. So, what can you do to help yourself achieve legs without varicose veins?

Here are some things you can do to try to improve the health of your legs:

• Veins need daily activity, so exercise is key to healthy veins. Walking, cycling or swimming are all good to get the blood in your legs flowing.
• Take 10 minute breaks each day to elevate your legs above the level of your heart. A simple way of achieving this is by lying down and resting your legs on a stack of pillows.
• Control your weight. Reducing excess weight helps to take unnecessary pressure off your legs.
• Make sure you breathe deeply and get enough oxygen into the bloodstream.
• Wear loose clothing. Tight clothes around your calves or groin can restrict circulation preventing the normal flow of blood from your legs.
• Avoid high heels – low heeled shoes work your calf muscles harder which is better for your veins. Avoid very hot baths, saunas and long periods of sunbathing.
• Avoid crossing your legs. And, if you are standing for a while, make a point of changing your position, shifting from one leg to another. Try some leg exercises or wiggle your toes now and again.
• s always you are recommended to drink plenty water and eat a balanced diet. Go easy on junk food and try to maintain a diet without saturated fats.

Implementing some of these tips could help you manage varicose veins in your legs without too much interference to your daily life.