Worst Foods for Oedema: A Research-Backed Guide for Dietary Awareness
By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Click to rate this article!
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By Dr. Nayana Shetty +2 more
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nayana Shetty
Last updated: Apr 17, 2024Table of Contents
Oedema is a common and frustrating condition that affects many people worldwide. In simple terms, it is the swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body’s tissues, particularly in the hands, feet, or legs. Dietary awareness plays a crucial role in avoiding and managing oedema, as the foods you consume can have a significant impact on your body’s fluid balance, circulation, and overall health.
In this article, we will delve into the destructive nature of oedema, identify the types of food that make oedema worse, explore healthier alternatives, and discuss various lifestyle changes that may help manage and avoid this condition. Furthermore, we will also touch upon oedema in pregnancy and answer some frequently asked questions.
Did you know?
Oedema happens when fluid leaks from small blood vessels into nearby tissues, leading to the following symptoms.
Oedema types hinge on the area under impact and its root cause. Some well-known types are as follows.
A healthcare provider will examine the affected area, inquire about medical history, and may request additional tests to determine the cause of oedema. Some possible tests include blood tests, ultrasound exams, vein studies, or other necessary diagnostics. Mild oedema usually resolves on its own, but more severe cases may require medication to manage the underlying cause or assist the body in removing excess fluid.
Clinical trials in progress play a crucial role in finding new ways to manage and control oedema. By taking part in trials, patients contribute towards a better understanding of oedema.
Pressure stockings help with blood flow. Plus, they help keep fluid from building up in your limbs. These are particularly useful for pregnant women.
If you are not sure about your oedema, a health professional may help. Make a list of symptoms, health history, medicines, and questions for your appointment.
Your diet affects your oedema. Some foods may make things worse these are listed below.
This means more fluid in your body, leading to worse oedema. High sodium is found in unhealthy foods like fast food, sauces, canned soup, deli meat, and bakery productions.
Processed foods are not only high in sodium. They also have ingredients that may raise inflammation and fluid retention. Examples are chips, crackers, cookies, candy, and ice cream.
Fat-rich foods like baked goods, processed meat, and cheese take time to digest. This leads to bloating.
Inflammatory foods and beverages might add to oedema. You might find these culprits in refined sugars, artificial sweeteners, trans fats, and alcohol.
Lactose, found in dairy products like milk and ice cream can lead to upset tummy and fluid retention in people who are lactose intolerant. Probiotic-rich yogurt or lactose-free alternatives might help.
Some foods can trigger stomach upset and add to oedema. They are as follows.
Apples have fructose, a natural sugar found in many fruits. Too much of it can spike inflammation and bloating. Try lower-fructose fruits like berries or bananas may help.
Knowing what to eat and drink plays an important part in dealing with oedema. By making some good dietary choices, you may keep your health in check.
Pick nutrient-rich, low-inflammation, and low-sodium food to manage oedema.
Foods rich in potassium may help decrease water retention. Examples include potatoes, sweet potatoes, bananas, spinach, beans, yoghurt, beets, lentils, and salmon.
Fiber-rich foods are good for gut health and bowel movements. Here too, watch out for specific ingredients that may not suit you.
Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Consume colourful fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, strawberries, cherries, kale, and spinach.
Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet. These include fish such as sardines, mackerel, and tuna, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and spices like ginger and turmeric.
Drink at least 8 glasses of water each day to avoid fluid retention. You may add lemon, mint, or berries to your water for a refreshing twist. Overdrinking water can add to oedema.
Regular breaks throughout the day help avoid long periods of sitting or standing and raising your legs above your heart level helps drain the oedema.
Avoid tight clothes that can limit blood flow and add to oedema symptoms.
Use waist-high compression stockings to avoid fluid build-up in your limbs by promoting better blood flow with gentle pressure.
Regular workouts and a healthy weight boost circulation, overall health, and reduces oedema symptoms.
Pregnancy brings many changes to your body. One of them could be swelling or oedema. It’s crucial to know what triggers it and how to manage it.
Swelling in pregnancy usually starts in the second term and may get worse by the third term.
Hormone changes can cause bloating in your belly even before your baby bump shows.
More blood volume and hormonal fluid retention can lead to swelling, especially in the hands, feet, or face.
As the uterus grows heavier and the baby’s weight puts pressure on blood vessels, circulation slows down and oedema symptoms may worsen.
Here are some self-care tips that may help you manage oedema.
Sudden severe swelling or swelling with symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or vision problems need quick medical attention. These symptoms may indicate a serious pregnancy complication like preeclampsia.
Always remember irrespective of being pregnant or not when home remedies are not working, the swelling is increasing, or if swelling is accompanied by other alarming symptoms you must seek medical help.
In summary, understanding and managing the impact of oedema on your body is crucial for overall health and well-being. Be aware of the types and causes of oedema, and identify the foods and drinks that can aggravate the condition. Focus on healthier alternatives and adopt beneficial lifestyle changes to keep oedema at bay. Moreover, it’s essential to recognize the triggers and warning signs of oedema during pregnancy and know when to seek medical guidance. Stay proactive and make informed decisions to lead a healthy, active life.
Processed, high-salt, high-fat, high-sugar foods and certain dairy products can make oedema worse.
Avoid high-sodium foods, processed foods, unhealthy fats, and high-sugar beverages to avoid fluid retention.
Limit high-sodium, processed foods, unhealthy fats, and high-sugar beverages that can exacerbate swelling in the feet.
Drinking at least 8 glasses of water daily may help maintain proper fluid balance in the body. Too much or too little consumption of water is not healthy.
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