Lymphedema is a chronic vascular disease that impairs the lymphatic system. It mainly affects the arms and legs but can occur in other parts of the body as well. The condition creates a build-up of lymph fluid in fatty tissues beneath the skin.
Lymph nodes transport lymph fluid containing salt, water, and proteins around the body. When the one-way valves in the lymph nodes are damaged, it can cause a build-up of lymph fluid, leading to swelling. Long-term accumulation causes inflammation and loss of mobility.
Many scenarios can cause lymphedema, including:
- Cancer surgery (lymph nodes may also be removed)
- Radiation therapy
- Infections that leave scars or damaged tissue
- Mutations in the lymph system
- Physical injury
- Increased white blood cell count from leukemia
Treatment for Lymphedema
Unfortunately, there is no cure for lymphedema. Still, you can manage your symptoms using different methods, including elastic sleeves and stockings, bandages, manual compression with massage, exercise, and a healthy diet.
Foods That Can Make Lymphedema Worse
No diet will make your lymphedema go away. Adopting healthy eating habits can improve your health, reduce swelling, and help manage lymphedema related stress. Here are some foods to avoid when you have lymphedema.
Sodium (Salty Foods)
Some salt is necessary for a healthy, balanced diet. The body uses sodium to carry nutrients and regulate blood pressure and fluid volume.
The goal is to consume the right amount of sodium without excess, with some people reporting reduced swelling when watching their sodium intake. Try to get most of your sodium from fresh fruits and vegetables and keep your intake to around 1,500 – 2,300 milligrams a day.
Foods with Added Sugars
Too much sugar will cause fluid retention inside the cells, hindering the normal flow of fluid through the body. Avoid foods with added sugars as much as possible. If you have cravings, satisfy your urge with sweet fruits instead of unhealthy treats.
Oils and Fats
Safflower and grape seed raise the lymphatic load. You should not eat foods prepared with hydrogenated fats and trans fats. Avoid convenience and take-out and other fried foods that use these types of fats.
Soy Foods
Gluten-free and soy-based foods should only be consumed in small quantities or avoided altogether.
Artificial Sweeteners
Avoid consuming any type of food containing artificial sweeteners, such as candy and drinks.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol increases the lymphatic load and so should not be consumed.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
It’s thought that excess body weight can aggravate the symptoms of lymphedema, so maintaining a healthy body weight may help you control the symptoms. Monitor your daily calorie intake and mind your portion sizes. Small changes in your diet can produce big results in managing your lymphedema.
Every treatment for lymphedema focuses on reducing the load on the lymphatic system, as this overall strategy is most effective at reducing the symptoms. Avoiding certain foods can help with lymphedema, but so too can eating a nutritionally balanced diet. It’s always good to eliminate unhealthy foods, but you should also take steps to include healthier alternatives and make sure you are consuming adequate amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables.
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