Dietary Changes May Help Reduce Lymphedema Symptoms

Recent research from the University of Alberta suggests that modifications in diet, particularly reducing saturated fat intake, could play a significant role in managing and potentially decreasing the severity of lymphedema. Lymphedema, characterized by painful swelling due to fluid accumulation in limbs, exists in two forms: primary, caused by genetic anomalies, and secondary, often resulting from external factors such as cancer treatments, infections, or injuries. Current treatments like compression garments and manual lymphatic drainage offer only temporary relief, with swelling frequently returning once treatment ceases.

Dr. Spencer Gibson, a leading researcher in lymphatic disorders, has conducted extensive studies into how the microenvironment influences lymphatic health. His team analyzed blood samples from 70 patients and discovered that individuals with lymphedema tend to have lower levels of beneficial fats compared to those without the condition. Moreover, animal studies demonstrated that a high-fat diet could initiate or worsen lymphedema, whereas transitioning to a healthier diet could reverse these effects.

A key finding involved fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4), which transports fatty acids into cells and is found in higher levels in lymphedema patients. Inhibiting FABP4 in animal models resulted in a 50% reduction in swelling, indicating a promising target for future therapies. Dr. Gibson's next steps include investigating the impact of a low-saturated-fat diet to see if it can reduce FABP4 activity, alongside exploring treatments addressing other environmental stressors like cancer therapies, hypoxia, and oxidative stress.

This research underscores the importance of lifestyle and dietary choices in managing lymphatic health. Collaborations across various departments and institutions are bolstering efforts to develop comprehensive treatment strategies, including repurposing existing drugs and personalized diet plans. As Dr. Gibson humorously notes, he is among the few specialists focusing solely on lymphedema, and the growing interest and research in this field offer hope for better management options in the future.

For more detailed information, see the original study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine: [DOI: 10.1038/s44321-025-00286-4].

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-diet-lymphedema.html