Lymphedema and Diet
What is lymphedema?
Lymph is the fluid that contains lymphocytes, which are white blood cells that play a crucial role
in immunity. Plasma is also in lymph. Plasma is the part of the blood that carries the blood cells.
Under normal conditions, the lymph vessels help the lymph to travel through the body and return
to the bloodstream, and lymph nodes filter the lymph and store the white blood cells. Clusters of
these lymph nodes are found in the axillary area (armpit), pelvis, neck, abdomen, and groin.
In lymphedema, the lymph system is damaged and/or blocked, so the fluid collects in the
extremities. Lymphedema most often affects the extremities, but it also can affect other areas,
such as the abdomen.
What is the relationship between lymphedema and cancer?
Lymphedema can occur following any cancer or cancer treatment that disrupts lymph flow, such
as with lymph node removal. Most of the time, this lymphedema develops in the 3 years
following surgery. It frequently occurs in breast cancer patients who have had a mastectomy with
removal of axillary lymph nodes. Lymphedema of the legs can occur following operations for
uterine cancer, prostate cancer, lymphoma, or melanoma. Lymphedema also may occur with
vulvar or ovarian cancers.
Risk factors include:
 Removal or radiation of lymph nodes in the armpits, groin, pelvis, or neck
 Overweight or obesity
 Delayed wound healing after the operation
 A tumor that impacts the left lymph duct, lymph nodes, or vessels in the neck, chest, armpits,
pelvis, or abdomen
 Development of scar tissue in the lymph ducts under the collarbone
What diet tips can help control lymphedema?
Unfortunately, a specific lymphedema diet does not exist. However, the following might help
with symptom control.
Salt intake
Individuals who are sensitive to sodium have reported a worsening of lymphedema following a
high-sodium meal. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 recommends that you reduce
daily sodium intake to less than 2300 milligrams (mg) and further reduce intake to 1500 mg if
you are 51 years of age or older, are African American, or have hypertension, diabetes, or
chronic kidney disease. The 1500 mg recommendation applies to about half of the population in
the United States, including children and the majority of adults.
Protein
Some people incorrectly assume that because high concentrations of protein collect in the tissue
spaces in lymphedema, a low-protein diet is beneficial. This is not true. Consumed protein will
not impact the disease.
Fluids
Limiting fluid intake will not help to control lymphedema. In fact, fluid is especially important to
people with lymphedema. It helps to flush waste products from the body following lymphedema
treatments.
Excess weight
Lose weight if you need to, because excess weight increases the amount of tissue that the lymph
system must drain, and it also increases pressure on the regional lymph nodes, which could
further decrease lymph flow.
Diet
A low-fat diet with an emphasis on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables generally is
recommended for people with lymphedema. This diet helps with maintenance of a healthy body
weight and ensures appropriate intake of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The Dietary Guidelines
for Americans 2010 recommends that adults consume 14 grams of fiber/1000 calories.
Infection
People with frequent infections often require higher levels of protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Sometimes supplements are recommended. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about
whether supplements would benefit you.
Alcohol
Avoid alcoholic beverages.
References and recommended readings
Cleveland Clinic. Diseases & conditions: lymphedema. Available at:
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/heart/disorders/lymphedema/heart_overview.aspx. Accessed April
24, 2012.
Lymph Notes®. Salt and lymphedema. Available at:
http://www.lymphnotes.com/article.php/id/404/. Accessed April 24, 2012.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Diet and lymphedema (video). Available at:
http://www.mskcc.org/multimedia/diet-and-lymphedema. Accessed April 24, 2012.
National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health. Lymphedema (PDQ®). Available at:
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/supportivecare/lymphedema/Patient/page1. Accessed
April 24, 2012.
National Lymphedema Network. LymphLink question corner. Available at:
http://www.lymphnet.org/lymphedemaFAQs/questions/question_01_00.htm. Accessed April 24,
2012.
WebMD®. Lymphedema: topic overview. Available at: http://www.webmd.com/a-to-zguides/lymphedema-topic-overview. Accessed April 24, 2012.
Zuther J. Nutrition and lymphedema. Available at: http://acols.com/lymphedematoday/?p=408.
Accessed April 24, 2012.
Review Date 5/12
O-0604