Holiday Meal Planning

The Fall is such a festive time and with the holidays quickly approaching everyone is gearing up for celebrating! The leaves are falling, decorations are up, and holiday meals are being planned. But if you suffer from varicose veins or spider veins you might want to do things a little differently this year as you prepare your holiday menu. There are some common holiday foods that you will want to avoid, but that doesn’t mean that you will miss out. Check out the list below of foods to avoid with some great substitutions to make instead this year at holiday meals.

Salty Main Dishes -Because salt can affect your blood pressure, which affects your entire circulatory system, it’s a good idea to limit your sodium intake. And while salty main dishes like salt cured hams and brined turkeys are staples of the holiday season, for healthy veins it’s best to choose an option with a lower sodium content. Try choosing a turkey recipe that doesn’t use a brine or exchange the ham for something just as delicious, like a spiced rubbed roast chicken or a roast.

Canned foods – Some canned foods are loaded with sodium and should be avoided, especially canned soups. This can be a bit heartbreaking if your idea of the perfect Thanksgiving dinner includes the old standby of green bean casserole made with canned soup. Instead of making recipes that rely on canned ingredients, try recipes that require fresher ingredients. By doing a quick internet search of ‘healthy green bean casserole’ you’re sure to find a delicious alternative. Another option is to roast fresh green beans or other favorite fresh vegetables in avocado oil. Avocado oil has been found to have a beneficial effect on blood pressure and will add another layer of flavor to your meal.

White bread rolls – Hot rolls, fresh from the oven, are a favorite of any holiday meal. But did you know that the process of making white bread strips it of nutrients and fiber? Not having enough fiber in your diet can decrease circulation and can also slow down your digestive system. Both of these issues can put added pressure on the veins in your lower body. Choosing breads made from whole grains is a much better option for your overall health, including your veins and circulatory system.

Alcohol – Have you heard the old adage, ‘Moderation is key’? Well, keep that in mind regarding alcohol consumption this holiday season. Consuming too much alcohol can lead to dehydration and when your body is dehydrated it is more difficult for your circulatory system to move blood throughout your body. This can put added pressure on your veins. Remember to also consume plenty of water as you celebrate to keep you body hydrated and working properly.

We hope you have a wonderful time celebrating this holiday season and make smart choices to stay healthy. If you have concerns regarding your vein health, request an appointment with Vein Specialist, Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical Associates of Cleveland, TN, at (423) 472-5423 or click here to request an appointment online.