Salt and Lymphedema

INTRODUCTION

There are no official guidelines stating that a low-salt diet is beneficial in controlling the swelling of lymphedema; however questions often arises as to whether or not being cautions, and limiting daily salt intake might help. (The terms salt and sodium are commonly used interchangeably when discussing dietary intake.)

DO WE NEED SALT?

According to Alicia Moag-Stahlberg, "You cannot exist without sodium, but the amount we need is minor." [1]

• Sodium is the main component of the body's extracellular fluids and it helps carry nutrients into the cells.
• Sodium also helps regulate other body functions, such as blood pressure and fluid volume. Consuming excess salt contributes to hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Sodium works on the lining of blood vessels to keep the pressure balance normal.
• Excess salt intake causes too much water to be drawn into the blood vessels. This increases the pressure on the artery walls and causes hypertension

WHERE DOES LYMPHEDEMA FIT WITH SALT INTAKE?

Although there are no special sodium guidelines for individuals with lymphedema, many individuals with this condition report increased swelling after a very salty meal.

For all individuals with lymphedema an important goal is to eat a healthy diet that will improve their general health and not contribute to developing health problems such as high blood pressure, heart problems, or being overweight.

HOW MUCH SALT PER DAY?

Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010, published jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends the following guidelines and actions:

• Research by these groups indicates that most Americans consume at least twice the recommended amount of salt each day.
• Reduce your sodium intake. When selecting foods, use the Nutrition Facts label to choose foods lower in sodium.The average individual should consume less than 2,300 milligrams approximately one teaspoon of salt (sodium) per day. Amounts in excess of this can lead to heart disease and stroke.
• Middle-aged and older individuals, or those who have high blood pressure, should limit their daily sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams of sodium per day. Making this dietary change can reduce blood pressure to a healthier level plus reducing the risk of heart disease and strokes.

SELECTING HEALTHY FOODS

When selecting foods it is healthier to replace processed (canned or frozen) foods, which are usually high in salt, with fresh and raw potassium-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables.

• Be aware that some fresh raw chicken is chilled in salt water that is absorbed into the meat. Air chilled chicken is not exposed to this added salt water source.
• Learn to read the nutrition labels on prepared foods and on restaurant menus. It is important to remember that this information is based on a single serving — not on the contents of an entire container of a prepared food.
• Learn to prepare unprocessed foods with alternatives flavorings such as herbs or fresh lemon juice.
• Be aware of what you drink. Sodas, both diet and regular varieties, contain sodium. Drinks made of vegetable juices are also high in sodium.
• Canned and processed foods tend to be high in sodium. As awareness of the importance increases, more foods are packaged without salt. Look for the "No Salt Added Label."
• Get more potassium in your diet. Food sources of potassium include potatoes, cantaloupe, bananas, beans, and yogurt.

TRACKING CHANGES 

As you make these changes notice how your lymphedema responds. You can do this by keeping a measurement chart at home. You may also be pleasantly surprised by a change (in the right direction) on your weight and blood pressure.

REFERENCES

[1] Alicia Moag-Stahlberg is a research nutritionist at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago and a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association.

[2] The American Heart Association.

[3] Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Published jointly by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Agriculture (USDA). www.dietaryguidelines.gov Updated 2010.

© LymphNotes updated 2010. This information does not replace the advice of a qualified health care professional.

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Category: Living With Lymphedema Updated: 2011-11-20