Dietitian Cemre Kamalı said that lipoedema is a chronic fat distribution disorder characterized by disproportionate fat accumulation and fluid retention, especially in the hips, thighs, knees and arms, mostly seen in women.
Dietitian Cemre Kamalı said that lipoedema occurs especially during hormonal change phases (puberty, pregnancy, menopause) and that this may be an estrogen-induced problem. Explaining that disorders can be seen in alpha and beta estrogen receptors in white adipose tissue in areas affected by lipedema, Kamalı continued her words as follows:
“As inflammation increases in the body, the immune system releases water-sodium-glucose. Depending on the area of inflammation, water and fat accumulate there. In other words, edema and adiposity are seen. Since there is inflammation in the legs in lipedema, they feel pain when they press on those areas. Therefore, the first strategy should be to suppress inflammation. For lipoedema, lifestyle changes and adjustments in eating habits can help manage symptoms. According to scientific research, the distribution of fat tissue in lipedema may not respond well to diet or exercise alone. Therefore, teamwork is very valuable. Reducing inflammation in the body is also among the main goals. Therefore, a diet rich in anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients should be foremost. Recent studies show that a ketogenic diet may be helpful in patients with lipedema. In addition, since there is thought to be a link between lipedema and estrogen, soy and phytoestrogen-containing foods should be avoided.”
“If you increase your coffee and tea consumption, increase your water consumption as well”
Giving tips on some nutrition and lifestyle that those living with lipedema can consider, Kamalı said, “Consuming anti-inflammatory foods, the most powerful of which is Omega-3. So seafood consumption. Because the omega-3 EPA and DHA part suppresses inflammation. In addition, herbs such as ginger-turmeric, green leafy and colorful vegetables. Onions and garlic can be given as examples, except for potatoes (sweet potatoes). Limiting salt intake can reduce bloating by reducing fluid retention in the body. It is important to reduce processed foods and overly salty foods as much as possible. Avocados and olive oil in particular should be included in your diet. Coconut oil, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds should be consumed. Drinking enough water is important to maintain fluid balance in the body and support circulation. Take care to drink 30 ml of water per kilogram of weight per day. If you increase your coffee and tea consumption, increase your water consumption as well. Appropriate exercises for people with lipoedema can improve circulation and develop muscle strength. Exercises such as walking, swimming, Pilates and light resistance exercises may be recommended. Stress can increase symptoms of lipoedema. Stress management techniques such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress levels. Lipoedema is a condition that needs to be managed throughout life and there is no single treatment method. However, lifestyle changes such as healthy eating habits, regular exercise and stress management can help keep symptoms under control.”
On the other hand, lipoedema is a painful skin growth due to fat accumulation that occurs on the legs, buttocks and sometimes arms, affecting both sides of the body equally.
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