Women that suffer from Lipedema know all too well that inflammation in the arms, hips, thighs and ankles can be painful. For many sufferers, mobility declines, blood circulation and lymphatic functions become compromised causing painful lymphatic swelling to increase. Dr. Marcia V. Byrd in Roswell, GA, along with other esteemed Lipedema experts locally and abroad, recommend that patients eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet to control inflammation. In addition, a well-planned diet combined with exercise can help patients avoid putting on unnecessary weight.
Some patients have reported that symptoms worsen after eating processed foods, drinking alcohol, or foods that contain yeast. Other patients claim that inflammation improved by avoiding certain foods and including healthier choices into their daily diet. With the holidays upon us temptation will be everywhere. Bypass the meatballs and select raw vegetables, fruit, and lean poultry. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation.
Lipedema Diet Guidelines
People that suffer from Lipedema should lower their consumption of pasteurized dairy products, animal protein and fats, simple sugars and carbohydrates (low glycemic), salt and wheat or processed flour products, and enrich their diet with organic fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy proteins.
Foods that contain lots of chemicals such as artificial preservatives, flavors, fake sweeteners like aspartame, colors and stabilizers which includes most prepared, packaged and fast foods should be avoided. A lot of packaged foods have advanced glycation end products (AGEs) that can cause damage in the body and increase the risk for diabetes and Alzheimer’s.
- Lower fat consumption – fat is absorbed directly into the lymphatics.
- Eat low glycemic index food – insulin makes fat grow.
- Eat lots of fresh vegetables that have enzymes that are absorbed into the lymphatics – clean out the stagnant protein.
- Lower salt intake – retain less water/fluid.
- Each time we eat we generate inflammation as the lymph system surrounds the gut. Rest the gut by taking a day off and eating liquid type foods such as soups, stews (without meat or at least with pulled meats), smoothies, protein shakes, applesauce, juiced vegetables and fruits.
For more information about Lipedema diet requirements, call 770.587.
Dr. Byrd and her staff recommend this delicious Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie found on Pinterest. Go ahead and give it a try! Smoothies are great ways to get quick vitamins and minerals!
