Lymphedema and Lipedema Nutrition Guide

Eat to starve lymphedema and lipedema by having foods that fight these conditions (and cancer) and avoiding foods that contribute to symptoms or related conditions. Learn how food choices affect both conditions and how better nutrition can improve symptoms (including pain) and delay progression to more advanced stages.

Signs of lymphedema and lipedema (painful fat syndrome) include swelling (edema), abnormal fat accumulation, pain, skin changes, and infections (cellulitis, wounds or ulcers) in affected areas. Lymphedema and lipedema are progressive conditions that can be depressing, disfiguring, disabling, and (potentially) deadly, without treatment. This guide explains why nutrition is an essential part of treatment, and vitamins, minerals, and supplements that may be beneficial.

You may be at risk for lymphedema if you have chronic venous insufficiency, venous disorders, heart disease, obesity, cancer (especially breast cancer, reproductive system cancers, or melanoma), or a family history of lymphedema or swollen legs.

The authors include experts in lymphedema and lipedema treatment, nutrition research, and behavior change. Emily Iker and Linda-Anne Kahn share personal insights from living well with lymphedema and lipedema, as well as their professional expertise.

For anyone with, or at risk for, lymphedema or lipedema, caregivers, lymphedema therapists, and health care providers.