Diet and Nutrition for Lipedema: What to Eat and Avoid

Lipedema is a chronic disorder defined by the abnormal buildup of fat cells that mostly affects women and can cause pain, swelling, and difficulties in mobility. While nutrition cannot cure lipedema, it can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. In this article, Dr. Azouz discusses the best dietary recommendations for controlling lipedema, with an emphasis on foods that reduce inflammation and those to avoid. Dr. Azouz is a board-certified plastic surgeon and treats patients from across the United States for lipedema surgery at his practice in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Azouz created the Lipedema Center of Excellence with the goal of helping patients obtain insurance coverage for lipedema surgery.

Understanding the Role of Diet in Lipedema

Lipedema is not caused by obesity or a poor diet; however, eating a good diet can help control the condition. A well-balanced diet helps reduce inflammation, improve lymphatic function, and prevent secondary problems such as obesity or metabolic syndrome, which can worsen lipedema symptoms.

Foods That Can Reduce Inflammation

• Omega-3 Rich Foods: Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory, which may help with lipedema symptoms. Include fatty seafood like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as plant-based sources such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
• Leafy Greens and Cruciferous Vegetables: Spinach, kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and promote general health.
• Berries and Other Low-Glycemic Fruits: Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are high in antioxidants and have a low glycemic index, making them great for decreasing inflammation without raising blood sugar levels.
• Whole Grains: Fiber-rich whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice, and oats promote digestion and help maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for managing lipedema.
• Lean Protein Sources: Choose lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, tofu, and lentils, which contain important amino acids but lack excess fat that can contribute to weight gain.
• Healthy Fats: Consume healthy fats such as olive oil, avocados, and almonds, which promote heart health and reduce inflammation.
• Herbs and Spices: Add anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic to your diet. These can help alleviate the pain and swelling associated with lipedema. Remember to avoid ginger, garlic, and ginseng at the time of your surgery because they may cause bleeding.

Foods to Avoid with Lipedema

• Processed and refined foods: Consuming refined sugars, white flour, and unhealthy fats can cause inflammation and weight gain. Avoid snacking on cookies, cakes, pastries, and fast food.
• Sugary Beverages: Sugary drinks, such as soda, sweetened teas, and certain fruit juices, can raise blood sugar levels and cause inflammation.
• High-Sodium Foods: Excess salt can cause water retention, aggravating the swelling in lipedema. Avoid eating processed meats, canned soups, and salty snacks.
• Trans fats and saturated fats: Limit your intake of trans fats (found in many baked products and fried meals) and saturated fats (found in red meat, butter, and cheese) as they can cause inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
• Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can dehydrate the body, increase inflammation, and affect the lymphatic system. If you have lipedema, it is important to minimize your alcohol intake.
• High-Glycemic Index Foods: To avoid inflammation and weight gain, avoid foods that induce quick rises in blood sugar, such as white bread, white rice, and some cereals.

Additional Tips for Managing Lipedema Through Diet

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water to promote lymphatic function and reduce water retention are typical symptoms of lipedema.
• Portion Control: Eating balanced meals in proper portions will help you manage your weight and avoid exacerbating your lipedema symptoms.
• Consult a dietitian: Consider working with a dietician who is experienced with lipedema to develop a personalized food plan that meets your individual needs and goals.
• Mindful Eating: Be aware of hunger and fullness cues and avoid emotional eating, which can contribute to overeating and weight gain.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Azouz

While diet alone cannot cure lipedema, making informed dietary choices can have a substantial impact on general health and symptom management. You can treat lipedema and enhance your quality of life by eating anti-inflammatory foods and avoiding those that cause inflammation. Always contact a healthcare expert before making large dietary changes, especially if you have any underlying health concerns. If you or a loved one is bothered by lipedema, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Azouz today! Contact us online or call us directly at (972) 702-8888 to book your appointment and learn more about treating lipedema.