One of the unfortunate drawbacks of aging includes the appearance of varicose veins and spider veins, which are caused by dilated blood vessels. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that one out of two people over the age of 50 will experience the effects of varicose veins, and they’re more common for women than men.

Fortunately there are many natural methods for preventing and easing the appearance of varicose and spider veins. The NIH recommends these helpful tips to keep your veins and arteries healthy and flowing freely:

• Exercise regularly with low-impact activities such as walking, swimming or biking, which can all help improve circulation.
• Wear loose clothing to prevent circulation interruption. Specially designed stockings and socks can also be worn to help boost vascular health.
• Elevate your legs after long periods of standing or sitting.
• Promote healthy circulation when sitting by placing your feet firmly on the floor. By crossing your legs for extended periods or dangling your lower legs you risk cutting off your circulation.
• Maintain a healthy weight to avoid added pressure on your legs.