1/10 – What is lymphedema
Lymphedema is a chronic pathological condition mainly manifested by swelling of a region of the body due to the accumulation of lymph in the tissues. Associated with lymphedema are episodes of infection with redness and febrile state, lymphangitis, which can be treated with courses of antibiotics. Swelling and hardening of tissues should be periodically treated with cycles of massage and bandaging by trained personnel. In any case, it is important to search for possible causes and concomitant causes of the pathology in order to contain it.
2/10 – Nutrition and lymphedema
FOOD plays a very important role in lymphedema
IS THERE A SPECIFIC DIET FOR LYMPHEDEMA?
There is no ideal diet regimen, but it is acquired that a healthy diet can counteract the effects of the disease.
3/10 – Maintaining body weight
Body weight. This is an important aspect of lymphedema management because fat accumulation makes it more difficult to treat the affected limb and slows lymphatic circulation. It is necessary:
- avoid gaining weight
- if you have gained weight it is important to lose it
- keeping one’s weight within limits compatible with one’s height and the movement allowed by daily commitments.
4/10 – Diet balanced in nutrients
Follow a diet balanced in nutrients and rich in fiber, fruits and vegetables (which provide all the nutrients and minerals the body needs) and low in fat, sugar and salt.
Protein is important to counteract tissue tearing. Red meat consumption should be reduced and white meat consumption (chicken, turkey, rabbit, veal) should be increased. Encourage the consumption of fish, eggs and legumes and, conversely, limit that of cold cuts as they are high in salt.
5/10 – Drinking a lot
At least 1.5-2 liters of water per day are needed. Drink throughout the day, not just with meals. Increase consumption of liquid-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, soups. Fruit juices are meant to be offered as a snack and not as a thirst-quenching drink. Avoid soft drinks, sugary drinks and alcoholic beverages.
Adequate hydration is essential for cellular function and especially important for the body-to remove waste products associated with lymphedema.
6/10 – Eliminate or otherwise reduce salt consumption.
The low sodium content cannot cure fluid retention caused by lymphedema, but it prevents further complications related to the inevitable swelling of the limbs resulting from high salt intake. Use herbs and spices to flavor foods.
Additional Recommended Condiments Raw: First-press sunflower seed oil (added at the end of cooking), Extra virgin olive oil.
In cooking: water, wine, beer, herbs, spices, vegetables. Condiments not recommended: butter, lard, margarine, bouillon cubes, ketchup, mayonnaise, soy sauce, salt.
7/10 Mineral salts and vitamins
The minerals and vitamins that should be used the most are:
Vitamin C – For the formation of collagen
Vitamin A – To enhance cell development
Zinc – For healing of any skin tears due to excess swelling
8/10 Prefer simple cooking methods such as:
Pressure cooker, steaming, microwave, grill, griddle. All without added fat.
9/10 Avoiding rapid weight loss crash diets.
Losing weight slowly is the healthiest way to reach the goal and achieve lasting results.
Eat slowly, chewing well to aid digestion, without distracting yourself with other activities (reading the newspaper, watching television, etc.)
10/10 Increase exercise
Increasing exercise helps you burn more calories as well as feel better. Let us not forget to take care of our gut microbiota, for a healthier body and thus reduce acute episodes of lymphangitis.
