Can lymphoedema be prevented?

It’s not possible to completely prevent lymphoedema, but the following advice may help reduce your chances of developing it. If you already have lymphoedema, this advice may stop it getting worse.

How do you prevent lymphatic system?

Keep Your Lymphatic System Healthy

1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat a healthy diet rich in alkaline foods and vegetables that provide a full range of vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
3. Include healthy fats in your diet.
4. Exercise daily, including both aerobic and anaerobic physical activity.

What foods help reduce lymphedema?

Choose grilled or baked lean proteins, like fish or poultry, and use higher fat meat, like beef and pork, sparingly. Also consider low-sugar Greek yogurt and cottage cheese for versatile lean proteins. Choose carbs like sweet potatoes, beans, brown rice and oatmeal, which have fiber.

Who is most likely to get lymphedema?

Being overweight or obese: People who are overweight or obese are more likely to develop lymphedema after breast cancer treatment. Overweight is defined as a body mass index (BMI) of 25-29.9, obese as a BMI of 30 or greater.

How is lymphedema caused?

Lymphedema occurs when the lymph vessels are not able to adequately drain lymph fluid, usually from an arm or leg. The most common causes of lymphedema include: Cancer. If cancer cells block lymph vessels, lymphedema may result.

Is walking good for lymphedema?

Exercises. Gentle exercises, such as walking, are a great way to help the fluids in your body move a little better. Try to go for a walk every day, if you can.

What exercise is good for lymphedema?

Always ask your lymphoedema specialist for advice and talk to your doctor before you start. Some good types of exercise include swimming, walking, doing stretching exercises and yoga. Swimming is helpful if you have problems with your joints, as it does not put strain on them.