Circulatory Disorders Dietary Treatments

The most common circulatory, or vascular, disorders are high blood pressure and atherosclerosis; others include various clotting abnormalities and diseases marked by reduced blood flow. Some common disorders include aneurysms, intermittent claudication, phlebitis, and Raynaud’s disease. Aneurysms are balloon-like bulges that form in weakened segments of the arteries, especially the aorta, the body’s largest artery, which stems directly from the heart. Many aneurysms are due to a congenital weakness, while others are caused by atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.

Intermittent claudication symptoms include severe leg pain and cramps induced by walking. A lack of oxygen due to inadequate blood flow causes the pain. Intermittent claudication is common in those who have diabetes or atherosclerosis. Phlebitis refers to any inflammation of a vein; the large, superficial veins in the lower legs are the most commonly afflicted. Although painful, superficial phlebitis is not as dangerous as when veins located deeper in the legs become inflamed, setting the stage for thrombophlebitis. In this condition, clots form at the site of inflammation and pieces may break away and travel to the heart and lungs.

Raynaud’s disease is characterized by periods of numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers and toes due to constriction or spasms in the small arteries that carry blood to the extremities. Typically, Raynaud’s disease is set off by exposure to the cold; in some people, stress may trigger attacks. For unknown reasons, women are nine times more likely to suffer from Raynaud’s. Smoking is blamed in many cases. Some victims may also have lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory autoimmune disorders. 20% of people with Raynaud’s disease seek treatment.

Nutrition Connection
-There are no specific dietary treatments for circulatory disorders. However, these measures may help people manage their conditions and improve their general well-being.
-Adopt a low-fat, low-salt diet. Following a low-fat, low-salt diet can help prevent circulatory disorders caused by atherosclerosis and high blood pressure, especially in aneurysms.
-Eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Consuming ample amounts will provide the vitamin C needed to strengthen and maintain blood vessels.
-Include more onions and garlic. These vegetables are especially helpful in improving blood flow. After chopping garlic, let it rest for 10 minutes prior to cooking it. This will allow the allicin and its potent derivatives to be activated and unleash the full nutritional power of garlic.
-Add more fish. A diet that includes several servings a week of fatty fish or other sources of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as foods high in vitamin E, helps reduce inflammation and clot formation. Gamma linolenic acid, a substance in evening primrose and borage oils, has a similar effect, but check with your doctor first, as these may interact with prescribed drugs.

Beyond the Diet
Combined with a balanced diet, taking the following steps can support your overall health and prevent aggravating circulatory problems further:
-Exercise. An exercise program coupled with a very low-fat diet, such as the regimen championed by cardiologist Dr. Dean Ornish, can help those with circulation problems.
-Avoid smoke. Don’t smoke, and try your best to avoid secondhand smoke.
-Try warm compresses. For those with Raynaud’s disease, applying warm compresses to hands and feet, or avoiding exposure to cold temperatures can prevent or minimize attacks.
-Medicate as needed. Phlebitis can be treated with aspirin and other anti-inflammatory drugs. Clot-dissolving drugs may be administered for thrombophlebitis; other measures may be required to prevent clots from reaching vital organs.
-Talk to your doctor. People with severe blockages may require surgery to remove them.