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Keto for Lipedema

Lipedema is a common yet misdiagnosed adipose tissue or fat disorder, often mistaken for obesity. Currently, it is estimated that lipedema impacts approximately 11% of women, occurring only rarely in men with hormonal dysfunction, and can have a profoundly negative impact on quality of life.

Lipedema is a condition that causes excess fat to accumulate in the lower part of the body. It most often involves the buttocks, thighs, and calves. The upper arms can also be affected. The condition does not affect the hands or feet. Lipedema is sometimes confused with lymphedema, but these are different conditions. However, lipedema can lead to lymphedema. The exact cause of lipedema is unknown. But the condition runs in families and may be inherited. The condition occurs almost exclusively in women, and usually starts or gets worse at the time of puberty, pregnancy, or menopause. Because of this, there is likely a connection to hormones. Lipedema is not caused by obesity but more than half of patients with this condition are overweight or obese.

Symptoms of lipedema include pain, swelling, and weight gain that is resistant to diet and exercise. There is fat build-up in the buttocks, thighs, calves, and sometimes the upper arms. Lipedema progresses and, without intervention, worsens over time. As the condition gets worse, lipedema can affect the ability to walk. Many patients with lipedema have emotional symptoms, such as being embarrassed, anxious, and depressed as the lower part of their body grows larger. Over time, as more fat accumulates, it can block the lymphatic pathway. This causes a build-up of fluid called lymph. The condition is known as secondary lymphedema or lipo-lymphedema.

The painful and life-changing symptoms of lipedema have long been thought to be resistant to lifestyle interventions such as diet and exercise.  However, there are solutions. According to the latest research, the keto lifestyle can reduce weight and dramatically decrease pain, inflammation, and bloating, which can improve the quality of life and prevent the natural progress of disease which may cause lymphatic dysfunction and mobility issues.