[TanyaRD]

Ralph,
I think I can shed a little light on how a high protein diet might help. If your wife's protein levels (usually measured by albumin in blood tests) are low it may cause her to have increased swelling. There are many possible causes for swelling in the lower extremities which have been pointed out in previous posts. This is just one potential cause which is usually corrected with increased protein intake in the diet. If your wife is having a difficult time eating it may be advantageous to use a protein supplement.