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Varicose veins, also known as varicoses or varicosities, are twisted, swollen, and enlarged veins. Varicose occurs when your veins become enlarged and overfilled with blood. It is often caused by faulty valves that allow blood to travel in the wrong direction.

Having varicose veins can be a huge problem to men and women whose jobs require them to stand or sit for an extended period of time like store managers, salesperson, janitors, etc. Varicose veins can lead to discomfort during cold weather and they can be painful as well.

Sitting or standing in one position for a long time makes it harder for your blood to flow in the leg veins and causes the pressure in your veins to rise.

In an episode of Pinoy MD, Dr. Jean Marquez suggested certain lifestyle practices that can help prevent varicose veins from developing in our legs.

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Eat fiber-rich food for healthy blood circulation

According to Dr. Marquez, consuming fiber-rich foods such as vegetables can help in better blood circulation.

"The fiber can actually decrease constipation. If you're not constipated, there will be less pressure on your veins," she explained.

Avoid foods high in salt, and include foods high in fiber and potassium. Drink water throughout the day for healthy blood circulation.

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Eat food rich in flavonoids to improve durability of the veins

Adding food rich in flavonoids and antioxidants to your diet can help prevent varicose veins.

"The flavonoids can improve the strength or 'yung tibay ng ugat [durability of the veins]," Dr. Marquez said.

Some of the food that contain flavonoids are onions, ginger, broccoli, leafy greens, oregano, red wine, black and green teas, citrus fruits, red and purple fruits, and soy foods.

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Wear compression hosiery

Dr. Marquez recommended the use of compression socks and stockings for people whose jobs require them to stand or sit for a prolonged period of time.

"Compression stockings can be used as a preventive measure to mitigate or prevent the development of varicose," she said.

Compression stockings can help to keep your vein valves in the right position. This makes it easier for the veins to function properly and reduces blood pooling, swelling, and pain.

Watch the Pinoy MD video below:

For more lifestyle content, head out to GMA's Lifestyle page.

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