What is it about?
Can women with lipedema lose weight and lose fat mass in their legs with diet? This study used MRI and DEXA to assess body composition and fat mass as well as multiple metabolic test including an euglycemic insulin clamp to assess insulin resistance. With a modified Mediterranean diet, the women lost weight and fat mass in the legs. Women with lipedema had a great fat mass in their legs, and it decreased with weight loss, but the greater proportion of fat mass [~23%] in the legs persisted. Lipedema participants were more insulin sensitive compared to BMI matched controls and became more sensitive with weight loss. Lipedema tissue had increased expression of genes involved in inflammation and fibrosis compared to controls.
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Why is it important?
This is a sophisticated study that showed women with lipedema can lose weight and fat mass in their legs, contrary to previous assumptions. It showed important insight to the metabolism and tissue biology of women with lipedema.
Perspectives
This study highlights the importance of comprehensive treatment of lipedema including a low refined carbohydrate diet for weight loss in women with lipedema and obesity.
Dr Thomas Wright MD
Laser Liposuction and Vein Center
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Adipose tissue biology and effect of weight loss in women with lipedema, Diabetes, December 2024, American Diabetes Association,
DOI: 10.2337/db24-0890.
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