Phlebitis in the legs is the venous insufficiency of the superficial venous network. Some veins relax, swell and overflow.
The formation of phlebitis is caused by venous congestion in a specific part of the leg, resulting in a constantly increasing venous pressure in the superficial venous network of the lower extremities over time. Instead of the blood being directed, or correct, that is, returning to the heart, the blood refluxes (peripherally) due to improper functioning (insufficiency) of the valves located in these veins that have a role in preventing this reflux.
One of the stages of phlebitis is edema, that is, swelling of the leg due to venous disease.
There is no miracle diet for treating phlebitis, but there are some foods that can help reduce the formation of clots and, by extension, the worsening of the disease. These foods are the following:
1. Foods containing EPA and DHA
EPA and DHA are two of the three omega-3 fatty acids and are found almost exclusively in fatty fish, algae and algae oil. They help maintain healthy heart function and normal blood pressure, which are important factors in reducing the risk of blood clots.
2. Foods containing magnesium
A lack of magnesium is associated with the formation of blood clots. Magnesium helps protect blood vessels and helps maintain their elasticity. It is found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, bananas, legumes, oily fish and avocados.
3. Citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons, grapefruit are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids and promote good blood circulation, helping to reduce possible inflammation.
4. Onions and garlic
They belong to the Liliaceae family and are foods that support good vascular and venous health through their blood-thinning effect, as a result of their very high content of sulfur-containing compounds.
5. Beets
Beets contain nitrates that are converted into nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels, helping to improve blood circulation and reduce blood pressure.
6. Cayenne Peppers
They have anti-inflammatory properties and contain capsaicin, which increases nitric oxide production resulting in better blood flow and reduced blood pressure.
There are foods that are not good for the circulatory system and can contribute to the formation of varicose veins and blood clots. These foods are the following:
1. Foods with saturated fats
Foods with saturated fats such as red meat, cold cuts, fatty cheeses, butter, fried foods accelerate the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, thus promoting the formation of blood clots.
2. Foods with a high sodium content
Excessive sodium intake creates hypertension, which is associated with the formation of thrombosis. Foods with a high sodium content are salt, processed meats and cold cuts, brined foods, ready-made mixes for cakes or other baked goods, frozen foods and meals, ready-made sauces, standardized vegetable broths, and standardized pastries.
3. Sweets
A large amount of added sugars can increase blood pressure and create inflammation that is a factor in poor blood circulation. This category also includes soft drinks, energy drinks, fruit-flavored drinks, flavored yogurts, cookies, cakes.
4. Alcohol
Its consumption can slow down blood flow, resulting in edema (swelling) and a burning sensation.
5. Coffee
Consuming a large amount of coffee creates hypertension that is associated with the formation of thrombosis.

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