Nutrition and Lymphedema

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Lymphedema, you know this condition occurs because of a malfunction of the lymphatic system. The malfunction may have been something you were born with, resulted from a surgical procedure, or occurred because of a trauma. When the flow of lymph is obstructed, fluid accumulates below the obstruction creating swollen or large extremities. An effect of the swelling is inflammation, which adds to an enlarged extremity and creates hard areas known as fibrosis. 

Regardless of how lymphedema developed, eating healthy is the key to good health. Maintaining an ideal body weight can help prevent many chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes but, more importantly, can allow our bodies to move better, which promotes good lymphatic flow. 

Certain foods can create inflammation, such as sugar, wheat, or dairy. If you have a known food intolerance, avoid these foods anyway, but you may want to consider how much of these you eat if you have lymphedema. Many lymphedema specialists believe that Keto, Paleo, Planet-based and Mediterranean diets help reduce swelling and make lymphedema easier to manage. We do not advocate one particular diet but offer these recommendations: 

* Avoid crashing or drastic diet methods. Crash and extreme diet is rarely effective and often results in extra weight when the diet techniques are no longer sustainable 

* Fruits and vegetables are good for your body with nutrients that nourish us. Don't be shy about eating these

* Choosing plant-based versus animal protein is an individual decision, but plant-based diets are associated with a lower inflammatory response. Even eating a few plant-based meals a week can result in a smaller waistline and less inflammation.  

* There is evidence to suggest that fasting can have a positive impact on weight loss. Fasting should be done in moderation and not for extended periods of time. Consult your provider or nutritionist for healthy fasting tips. 

* We cannot talk about nutrition without also discussing hydration. Drinking water is essential for good health. Unless your healthcare provider has told you to limit water intake for heart health, feel free to consume plenty of water. Because we have lymphedema and not circulatory problems - water will not need to swelling and in fact, will help the body purge toxin

Although some would argue that supplements are unnecessary if you eat a healthy diet, some herbs can be a good alternative to taking prescription medication. The supplements provided below are aimed at increasing circulation, decreasing inflammation, and reducing pain. In addition to the two links provided below, there is some scientific evidence that vitamin D, L-arginine, selenium, and tumeric help lymphedema by reducing inflammation. 

If you decide to take an herbal supplement, be sure to discuss with your healthcare provider as many supplements can interfere with medication or effects how your blood clots. 

Lymph Cleanse

https://www.vitacost.com/solaray-total-cleanse-lymph-60-vegetarian-capsules?ta=lymph&t=lymph

Diosmin (formulated for venous issues but also good for lymphedema) 

https://www.vitacost.com/lifetime-diosmin-complex