The Best Anti-Inflammatory Diets and Supplements for Managing Lipedema Symptoms
Lipedema is a painful condition characterized by abnormal fat deposits in the legs, thighs, and other areas. While not directly caused by weight gain, lipedema swelling and tenderness is often exacerbated by inflammation. Finding an anti-inflammatory diet and beneficial supplements can help reduce lipedema symptoms.
In this post, we’ll explore the top anti-inflammatory diet options for lipedema based on insights from Registered Dietician Bonnie Newlin. We’ll also cover the best supplements to pair with an anti-inflammatory diet to support lipedema health. Read on to learn effective solutions to manage inflammation and feel your best with lipedema!
Overcoming Weight Loss Misconceptions with Lipedema
Bonnie shares that she struggled with weight loss for years, even losing over 140 pounds at one point. However, the lower half of her body remained quite large. After noticing increasing heaviness and changes in her leg appearance in 2020, she was diagnosed with lipedema.
This journey taught Bonnie that generalized “eat less, move more” advice often does not work for lipedema. She found that focusing on reducing inflammation through diet instead of targeting the number on the scale improved her lipedema symptoms and overall wellbeing.
Key Tips for an Anti-Inflammatory Lipedema Diet
Rather than a structured diet with strict rules, Bonnie recommends focusing on incorporating more anti-inflammatory foods into your regular eating pattern. Key tips include:
- Emphasize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains and anti-inflammatory fats like olive oil and avocados.
- Limit processed foods, added sugars, refined carbs, high-sodium foods and unhealthy fats.
- Enjoy anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric as well as fermented foods for gut health.
- Take a lifestyle approach instead of viewing eating as restrictive dieting. Small, sustainable changes over time lead to big results!
Top Anti-Inflammatory Diet Options for Lipedema Management
While any diet can be anti-inflammatory with the right food choices, some popular diets include helpful guidelines:
Ketogenic Diet
The keto diet emphasizes high fat, moderate protein and minimal carbs to put the body in ketosis. Studies show keto may reduce lipedema inflammation. Focus on healthy fats like olive oil, avocados and omega-3s instead of saturated fats. Stick to low-carb vegetables and limit grains and starchier options.
Mediterranean Diet
Mediterranean eating features lean proteins like fish, olive oil, avocados, lots of greens and minimal refined carbs or dairy. The emphasis is on whole, unprocessed foods. Avoid Americanized versions focused heavily on pasta and cheese.
R.A.D. Diet
This diet limits grains and animal fats to reduce inflammation. The focus is non-starchy vegetables, lean protein and lower sugar fruits. The R.A.D. Diet eliminates common allergens and is less restrictive than keto.
Plant-Based or Vegan Diets
Centered on produce, nuts, seeds, beans, whole grains and healthy fats, plant-based and vegan diets are anti-inflammatory. Limiting animal products may also minimize acid reflux issues. Those on a vegan diet omit all animal products.
Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Supplements for Lipedema
While a nutrient-rich diet should provide most vitamins and minerals, supplements can help fill any nutritional gaps. Bonnie recommends these anti-inflammatory supplements for lipedema:
- B Complex for energy production and hormone support
- Diosmin to improve lymph flow
- Turmeric to reduce inflammation
- Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil or plant sources like chia and flax seeds
- Selenium to support thyroid health and reduce inflammation
- Vitamin C to lower inflammation and help collagen synthesis
- Vitamin D to regulate immune function and inflammation
A Lifestyle Approach is Best for Lasting Lipedema Improvements
There is no “perfect” diet for lipedema management. Focus on consistency and sustainability in choosing anti-inflammatory foods versus chasing rigid rules and restrictions. Be patient with yourself and make small changes over time. Progress - not perfection - is the goal!
Over to You
While nutritional needs vary, anti-inflammatory diets and supplements provide a helpful starting point to improve lipedema symptoms. Work with your healthcare provider to find the diet and supplement regimen that fits your needs. Most importantly, avoid harsh self-judgment if your food choices aren't always perfect. Each positive choice makes a difference!
What changes have helped you better manage your lipedema? Share your best tips and tricks in the comments.
Watch Bonnie's Episode HERE
