18 Sep Food for Thought: Should I Follow a Diet if I Have Vascular Disease?
We’re sure you’re no stranger to the food pyramid. But, let’s be honest, from top to bottom we all cut corners or fall short sometimes, which is typically not a problem in moderation!
It can be, however, if you’re living with a vascular condition.
Specifically, food is capable of having a powerful effect on your body depending on the current and ongoing state of your health. So, if you’re living with vascular disease, here’s what you need to keep in mind:
You Are What You Eat?
As with many other physical conditions, what we put in our bodies can make a difference — good or bad.
In fact, “a growing body of evidence indicates that imbalanced nutrient intake may contribute to the development and progression of PAD,” according to an article published by the National Library of Medicine.
What’s more, individuals who are obese or who live largely inactive lifestyles are already at an increased risk for developing venous and vascular conditions, meaning it’s of the utmost importance that they commit to a balanced diet.
The key, of course, is understanding what that diet should be composed of.
Defining Your Dietary Changes
“Any diet changes for peripheral artery disease (PAD) should reduce your intake of the types of fats associated with progression of cardiovascular disease,” Cleveland Clinic recommends. “Ideally, these changes would also reduce inflammation in your blood vessels and in your entire body.”
Additionally, this would involve reducing your intake of…
- Salt
- Sugar
- Alcohol
- And more
And if you’re looking for a specific diet to start researching, we’d first point you in the direction of the Mediterranean Diet.
“‘Mediterranean diet’ is a catchall phrase for cuisine found in Mediterranean countries,” the Society for Vascular Surgery explains, “the diet generally features lots of fish and non-red meat sources, extra-virgin olive oil and plenty of fruit and vegetables, with additional flavor coming from herbs and spices, not salt.”
If It All Feels Like a Mouthful…
Changing up your daily diet and cooking habits, for some, is no small feat. And we understand that it might disrupt your routine more than expected! But we guarantee you that your body will reap the benefits.
Plus, you don’t have to do it alone.
If you suspect you may be combatting vascular disease, the team here at Duval Vascular Center is equipped with industry-leading technology to help diagnose, treat, and guide you toward lasting comfort!
No matter your needs, your health is our priority. To learn more about how we can help you treat and prevent vascular disease — as well as get professional tips about your dietary intake — reach out to our team today! When you call us at 904-518-1398, we’ll help you schedule your FREE vein screening.