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L-W-O Community

For those living with Primary, Secondary & Paediatric Lymphoedema Online & in the Community

Does Food Cause Inflammation

The above question is often asked whether there is any definitive proof that food might cause inflammation?  Looking at this from a patient point of view our members think it does.  We are all different, so what might affect me, won't necessarily affect someone else.


Salt

I am not going into depth as to why you shouldn't have too much salt because it is simple.  The more salt you consume, the more fluid you will retain. A high sodium diet will cause water retention in your body.  This can worsen your lymphoedema. 

Salt is in;

  • bacon, ham and other cured meats
  • canned foods
  • fast food
  • ketchup and other sauces
  • salad dressings
  • soy sauce

FURTHER READING:

Fluid and Sodium for Lymphoedema

 

Sugar

Healing herbs

No vitamins, herbs or food supplements have been proven to work for reducing swelling of lymphoedema

With this in mind there is absolutely no reason why herbs and spices can't be used to flavour food.  Why not try growing you own herbs, even if you live in a flat/apartment they grow well on a windowsill. 

Did you know?

Extra Virgin Coconut oil and Extra Virgin Olive oil are great to use in cooking but did you know they are both?

  • Anti-bacterial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antiseptic

Therefore, they are great to use for skin-care.


This page was first published as part of our Health Living Page in July 2014 it was republished with its own page 2019

Last updated 14/06/2020