Unlike other comorbidities that reverse following massive weight loss, obesity-induced lymphedema may not resolve. Lymphedema is a disease caused by the anomalous development of the lymphatic system or injury to lymphatic vasculature.
While the pain and swelling that come with lymphedema may seem permanent, many methods can help minimize lymphedema symptoms. Specifically, eating the right foods and dieting can greatly reduce the effects of lymphedema. A healthy diet can help you maintain a healthy body weight and body mass index (BMI).
People with stage 1 lymphedema have visible swelling as lymph starts to accumulate. Although a temporary small dent (or pit) forms when you press the skin, there is no permanent damage to the skin or underlying tissues. Specialists consider this early-stage lymphedema to be reversible.
There is no evidence that this diet will improve lymphoedema and it may even make it worse. This is sometimes promoted to reduce lymph fluid as lymph fluid is high in protein. However, changes in dietary protein intake have not been shown to have any effect on lymphoedema.
Clinical studies have provided evidence that obesity and postoperative weight gain are significant risk factors for the development of lymphedema. In fact, recent studies have shown that extreme obesity can result in markedly impaired lymphatic function and primary lymphedema.
Many people with fluid retention are overweight and losing weight can make a big difference to improve the oedema. A gradual weight loss (rather than fasting and bingeing) is recommended.
Dayan's Latest Research Links GLP-1 Medications to Lymphedema Improvement. Recent research led by Dr. Joseph H. Dayan, director of the Institute for Lymphatic Surgery and Innovation, suggests that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may offer hope for lymphedema patients.
Therefore, selenium deficiency might increase the potential for lymphedema as an additional risk factor.
Once lymphedema develops, it is a chronic condition that cannot be cured but can be treated to relieve swelling and improve your ability to function day to day.
The combination of exercise and compression encourages the fluid to move out of the affected limb. Compression garments may also be applied after a massage session to prevent fluid accumulating in the limb again. Velcro wraps may be used instead of bandages or compression garments. These are easier to apply yourself.
Lymphedema, while presenting challenges, is not a direct threat to life expectancy. With early detection, comprehensive management strategies, and ongoing support, individuals can lead fulfilling lives. It is essential to dispel myths, address underlying causes, and adopt a proactive approach to self-care.
Lymphedema, lipedema, and even simple obesity in the extremities can resemble each other superficially and are often confused for one another, but they differ in important ways (Table 1).
Nighttime garments with channeling and foam work well to soften and break up fibrosis. Use a compression pump daily will help to soften fibrotic tissue. If you do not have a pump, be sure to complete self-manual lymphatic drainage daily. You also can “knead” the more fibrotic tissues to help soften them.
Moreover, selenium supplementation proved to be effective in the treatment of secondary lymphedema and reduced the production of reactive oxygen species [37].
There aren't any specific exercises to do. Physical activity encourages fluid to drain into the lymphatic system in the abdomen. Walking, swimming, yoga, pilates and Tai chi all might help to encourage the lymph to move.
Alcohol and caffeine could also function like diuretics. They both could dilate the lymph tissue and cause more swelling, and as a result, exacerbate the lymphedema. Don't adopt a low-protein diet.
Treatment for lymphedema depends on the severity and extent of the condition. Prevention and controlling lymphedema play an important role with this condition since there is no cure.
Doctors often recommend people with obesity-related lymphedema visit a bariatric weight loss center for surgical weight loss. This is because many people with obesity may find it difficult to lose weight through diet and exercise alone.
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is thought to help in cases of mild fluid retention. Good sources of vitamin B6 include brown rice and red meat. Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), calcium and vitamin D help the body to excrete excess fluids. Include fresh fruits and low-fat dairy foods in your daily diet.
These foods are shown to have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, and magnesium, which are all beneficial nutrients for people with lymphedema. They aid in reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and promoting heart health.
Eat Primarily: have a variety of different foods from this list every day in reasonable serving sizes. Include at least a half-cup of beans, a half-cup of whole grains (such as oats) or starchy vegetables, and one cup of fruit (preferably citrus and banana) each day.
Based on the research, bestatin (also known as ubenimex), is being tested in a clinical trial that started in May 2016 - known as ULTRA - as a treatment for secondary lymphedema, which occurs because of damage to the lymphatic system from surgery, radiation therapy, trauma or infection.