Lifting heavy weights causes extreme abdominal muscle contractions. The leg veins drain into the large veins in the abdomen. If there is CVI present, the pressure into the legs can aggravate the problems. Nutrition, in the presence of inherited valve weakness, will not make that much difference. That said, there are many sport compression socks available that can keep the veins compressed during these exercises.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There is no nutrient that can counteract the mechanical effect of Valsalva (bearing down with diaphragm while holding breath). During Valsalva, intense reverse pressure is transmitted to the iliac veins, in turn to the femoral veins, and eventually to the saphenous veins which cause many people's varicose veins. Although Valsalva won't cause varicose veins in a normal person, it can exacerbate varicose veins in those genetically prone to the condition, and cause them to appear earlier than they would otherwise. Valsalva is unlikely to affect spider veins which very rarely derive from saphenous veins.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

There is no research on this subject. Valsava maneuver can aggravate venous symptoms in people with venous insufficiency.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Possibly. There are a lot variable involved in your question. The weight lifted, the technique of the lift , the degree of CVI .I dont know if anyone can give you a simple yes or no to your question.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It has nothing to do with our bodies stress resisting capacity and everything to do with hemodynamics. A Valsalva maneuver decreases blood return to the heart by increased abdominal pressure and decreased venous return. The pressure translates to venous hypertension in the legs and increased pressure on the venous valves in the legs. The better question is could strong calf muscles overcome venous insufficiency and to some degree yes this is true. Strong calf muscles can overcome some degree of cvi. I recommend against heavy weight lifting where you are standing upright and straining ( valsalvaing)

Published on Jul 11, 2012

A valsalva manuever increases the intraabdominal pressure which then increases the pressure 1n the veins. If the valves are incompetent then the back pressure in the veins increases and this can lead to venous insufficiency and further spider and varicose veins If the vein valves are competent, short times of valsalva should not lead to venous insufficiency. Long term valsalva and frequent valsalva maneuver can ultimately lead to valvular insufficiency.

Published on Jul 11, 2012