Diet plays a pivotal role in lymphedema management.

 Diet Plan for Lymphedema 

Diet plays a pivotal role in the integrative treatment of lymphedema and lymphatic filariasis. Integrative medicine is all about the holistic approach to patient care; what we consume as food is very important in the integrative strategy for managing lymphedema.

 Lymphedema, marked by the chronic accumulation of lymphatic fluid and subsequent tissue swelling, necessitates a multifaceted approach to address its complexities. Integrative medicine, which combines yoga, ayurveda and allopathy, recognizes the profound impact of Diet on both the symptoms and overall well-being of individuals with lymphedema.

 Institute of Applied Dermatology (IAD) Founder Director Dr S R Narahari says diet is essential in the progression of lymphedema. Classical Western eating habits, based on carbohydrates and refined foods, particularly favour systemic low-grade chronic cellular inflammation, which stimulates oedema.

 Weight control and an anti-inflammatory and anti edema diet are two additional necessary components of holistic therapy in the presence of primary or secondary lymphedema.

 Fibers in fruits and vegetables lead to the formation of short-chain fatty acids in the bowel, exhibiting anti-inflammatory activity. Spices like turmeric, garlic, curry leaves, and prebiotics like coloured berries also contribute to an anti-inflammatory and anti-edema action, and they may reduce inflammation and edema.

 Among the foods, salt, caffeine, alcohol, processed meats, junk foods, and sweets have been shown to increase inflammation and edema. So, they should be avoided by patients with lymphedema.

 Although obesity is a major clinical risk factor for lymphedema, weight loss has been shown to improve lymphedema-related symptoms and also offers other benefits, such as improved body image and insulin control.

He further added that hydration was another important aspect in the management of lymphedema. "Proper fluid balance is important in the lymphatic system's function. Patients must maintain adequate hydration levels because it's an essential component of integrative care for lymphedema," he said, adding that the patients must consult a doctor or a professional nutritionist /dietitian for an individualized approach to dietary planning.

 "Each patient's nutritional needs are unique, influenced by factors such as age, gender, physical activity, digestion capacity, co-morbidities, disease condition, body weight, lifestyle, body constitution (ayurveda’s prakriti , vikriti) and overall health. Only a professional dietician will be able to prepare a diet plan tailored for a patient. Diet is crucial in the holistic care of patients as it not only addresses lymphedema-specific concerns but also contributes to the patient's overall health and vitality," Dr Narahari added.