From the Guidelines
For managing lymphatic edema through diet, it is crucial to focus on a dietary pattern that is high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes, as this approach can help reduce inflammation and support overall circulatory health. According to the American Cancer Society/American Society of Clinical Oncology breast cancer survivorship care guideline 1, achieving a dietary pattern high in these components and low in saturated fats, with limited alcohol consumption, is recommended. Key components of this diet include:
- Fresh fruits, such as berries and citrus
- Leafy greens and other vegetables
- Whole grains
- Legumes
- Lean proteins
- Nuts and seeds, including those rich in omega-3 like flaxseeds and walnuts It is also important to stay well-hydrated with water and herbal teas, while limiting alcohol and caffeine. Avoiding highly processed foods, added sugars, and excessive salt is crucial as these can worsen fluid retention. Using herbs and spices for seasoning instead of salt can help minimize sodium intake. Additionally, incorporating foods with natural diuretic properties, such as cucumber, watermelon, celery, and parsley, may aid in fluid balance. This dietary approach is supported by guidelines that emphasize the importance of a balanced diet in managing conditions like lymphatic edema, as noted in the guideline by the American Cancer Society/American Society of Clinical Oncology 1.
From the Research
Lymphatic Edema and Diet
- Lymphatic edema, also known as lymphedema, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, resulting in swelling 2.
- The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, and impaired lymph drainage can lead to lymphedema 2.
- Fat deposition is a defining clinical characteristic of lymphedema, and suction-assisted lipectomy has shown that the swelling is not just fluid but is dominated by fat 2.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin E Supplementation
- Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E co-supplementation have been shown to decrease oxidative stress and inflammation 3.
- This co-supplementation has been found to decrease hs-CRP concentrations and increase total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and nitric oxide levels 3.
- However, the effect of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E co-supplementation on obesity indices, such as body weight and body mass index (BMI), is inconsistent 4.
- Some studies suggest that this co-supplementation may have a significant impact on BMI in certain subgroups, such as women over 50 years old and individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus 4.
Lipid Profile and Omega-3 Fatty Acids plus Vitamin E Co-Supplementation
- Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E co-supplementation have been found to reduce VLDL levels, although its effect on other lipid profile parameters requires more well-designed studies 5.
- The co-supplementation of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids may be more effective than single supplementation in controlling dyslipidemia 5.
- However, the meta-analysis indicates that the co-supplementation does not show any significant difference between intervention and control groups on total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglyceride individually 5.