GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy), have gained attention for their effectiveness in managing type 2 diabetes and aiding weight loss in individuals with obesity. However, their application in treating lipedema—a chronic fat disorder—raises concerns due to fundamental differences between lipedema and conditions these medications are approved to treat.
Understanding Lipedema: Not Just Excess Weight
Lipedema is a chronic condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fat, primarily in the lower body, leading to pain, swelling, and easy bruising. Unlike general obesity, lipedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise and often affects individuals who are not overweight. This distinction is crucial, as misdiagnosis can lead to inappropriate treatments.
FDA Approval of GLP-1 Medications: Specific Indications
Semaglutide has received FDA approval for specific uses:
Type 2 Diabetes Management: As an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.(source)
Chronic Weight Management: For adults with obesity (BMI ≥30) or overweight (BMI ≥27) with at least one weight-related condition, such as hypertension or dyslipidemia. (source)
These approvals are based on the medication’s ability to regulate blood sugar and promote weight loss through appetite suppression.
Limitations in Treating Lipedema
Applying GLP-1 medications to lipedema treatment is problematic for several reasons:
Lack of Efficacy on Lipedema Fat: Lipedema fat is pathologically different from general adipose tissue and does not respond to weight loss strategies that are effective for obesity.
Absence of Clinical Trials: There is a lack of robust clinical evidence supporting the use of GLP-1 agonists for lipedema.
Potential Side Effects: GLP-1 medications can cause gastrointestinal issues, pancreatitis, and other side effects, which may outweigh potential benefits for lipedema patients without comorbid conditions.
Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Misdiagnosing lipedema as obesity can lead to inappropriate treatment plans. Healthcare providers need better training to distinguish between these conditions to avoid prescribing ineffective and potentially harmful medications.
Emphasizing Anti-Inflammatory Diets
For lipedema management, adopting a health-promoting, anti-inflammatory diet may offer benefits without the risks associated with GLP-1 medications. Diets rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and low in processed sugars can help reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Conclusion
While GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide are valuable tools for managing type 2 diabetes and obesity, they are not appropriate treatments for lipedema in the absence of these conditions. A focus on accurate diagnosis and holistic, non-pharmacological approaches remains essential for effective lipedema management.
If you’ve ever wondered why your legs seem disproportionately large compared to the rest of your body—or why dieting and exercise don’t seem to shrink stubborn fat in your lower half—you might be looking at something more than just weight gain or cellulite. Lipedema is a chronic fat disorder that affects millions of women, but it often goes undiagnosed or is mistaken for obesity. While only a trained specialist can make an official diagnosis, this article will walk you through key symptoms and self-checks to help you with self-diagnosis and better advocate for yourself.
What Is Lipedema?
Lipedema (pronounced LIP-uh-dee-muh) is a disorder of fat distribution that primarily affects women. It causes the abnormal accumulation of painful fat, usually in the legs, hips, buttocks, and sometimes arms—sparing the hands and feet. This condition is progressive and resistant to traditional weight loss methods.
The Most Common Signs and Symptoms
Here’s what to look for when doing a self-diagnosis check:
Disproportionate lower body fat: Fat often builds up symmetrically on both legs or arms, even if your upper body remains lean.
Column-like or “tree trunk” legs: The legs may appear thick and uniform in size from thighs to ankles, often ending abruptly at the ankles or wrists.
Cuffing at the ankles or wrists: There’s usually a sharp demarcation where fat ends and normal tissue begins.
Tenderness or easy bruising: The affected areas are often painful to the touch and bruise more easily than normal.
Swelling that worsens throughout the day: While fat is the primary issue, swelling (especially from standing or heat) is common and may reduce overnight.
Negative Stemmer’s Sign: You can pinch the skin at the base of the toes or fingers—if you can lift the skin, that’s a negative result and points toward lipedema rather than lymphedema.
The “Float Test” – Lipedema Fat Is Buoyant
One interesting self-test is to check for buoyancy. Women with lipedema often find that their legs float more easily in water. This is because lipedema fat has a higher fluid and connective tissue content. Try relaxing in a bathtub or pool and notice if your legs tend to float more than expected.
Palpation Test: Check the Cubital Area
Another helpful self-check is palpation of the cubital area, which is the inside crease of your elbow. Gently press this area with your fingers. Women with lipedema may feel small nodules, lumps, or even discomfort. Similar nodules might be found in the thighs or upper arms.
Understanding the Stages of Lipedema
Lipedema progresses through four distinct stages:
Stage 1: Smooth skin surface with soft, evenly distributed fat. Swelling comes and goes.
Stage 2: Uneven skin with indentations or “mattress-like” texture. Fat becomes harder and more nodular.
Stage 3: Large fat lobes form, particularly around the knees or thighs. Mobility may start to decline.
Stage 4 (Lipo-lymphedema): Advanced fat accumulation with concurrent lymphedema. This stage includes significant swelling, hardening of tissue, and more functional limitations.
When Does Lipedema Get Worse?
Lipedema tends to worsen during times of hormonal change, including:
Puberty
Pregnancy
Perimenopause and menopause
Starting or stopping hormonal birth control
If you noticed sudden changes in your body shape during these times, particularly in your lower half, it might be worth looking into.
How to Tell Lipedema Apart from Cellulite or Obesity
While cellulite and general weight gain affect many women, lipedema is distinct in these ways:
Feature
Lipedema
Cellulite
Obesity
Symmetrical fat accumulation
✅
❌
Sometimes
Pain or tenderness
✅
❌
Sometimes
Swelling throughout day
✅
❌
Sometimes
Hands/feet unaffected
✅
✅
❌
Bruising easily
✅
❌
❌
Responds to diet/exercise
❌
✅
✅
What to Do If You Suspect Lipedema
If you’ve done a self-diagnosis and recognize these symptoms, the next step is to seek out a specialist, preferably one familiar with lymphatic disorders or who has experience diagnosing and treating lipedema. Many general practitioners are unfamiliar with this condition and may misdiagnose it as simple obesity.
You might want to bring documentation, pictures of your body changes over time, and a symptom diary to your appointment to help make your case.
Final Thoughts
Learning about lipedema can be both enlightening and emotional—especially if you’ve struggled with body image, dieting, or unexplained pain for years. While a formal diagnosis is essential, becoming educated and self-aware can be the first empowering step toward healing and advocacy.
If you suspect you might have lipedema, you’re not alone. Keep learning, seek out community, and most importantly, don’t give up on finding answers.
As I work through my LipedemaVegan 180-Day Protocol, one of my top priorities is to protect my skin, reduce inflammation, and support fat loss as I shed over 50 pounds.
That’s why I’m using red light therapy (RLT) — also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) — as a daily tool in my routine. Not just for beauty, but for deep cellular support as my body transforms.
Here’s why I added red light therapy to my protocol, the science behind how it supports weight loss and skin integrity, and how I’m gradually increasing the intensity each month to match my progress.
🔬 What Is Red Light Therapy?
Red light therapy uses wavelengths of red and near-infrared light (typically 630–850 nm) to stimulate the mitochondria — the energy-producing engines inside our cells. When absorbed by the skin and tissues, these wavelengths can:
Increase ATP production (cellular energy)
Improve blood flow and oxygen delivery
Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress
Stimulate collagen and elastin synthesis
This makes red light therapy an excellent choice for fat loss, skin tightening, lymphatic drainage, and pain relief — all of which are relevant for anyone with lipedema or chronic inflammation.
⚖️ How Red Light Therapy Supports Weight Loss
Here are the most compelling reasons I’m using RLT while losing weight:
1. Improved Fat Metabolism
Research shows that red light therapy may enhance lipolysis — the breakdown of fat stored in adipose cells. One randomized trial published in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine found that subjects receiving RLT lost more inches and body fat compared to the control group [1].
📚 Reference: Jackson RF et al. “Photonic lipolysis: a clinical trial.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2012.
2. Skin Tightening & Collagen Preservation
As we lose fat — especially over 50+ pounds — skin laxity becomes a concern. Red light therapy stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen and elastin, which may help maintain firmness and reduce sagging over time [2].
📚 Reference: Avci P et al. “Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin: stimulating, healing, restoring.” Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2013.
3. Lymphatic Drainage and Inflammation Reduction
Lipedema involves lymphatic stagnation and chronic inflammation. RLT may improve lymphatic flow, reduce pain, and encourage tissue repair — particularly in combination with dietary anti-inflammatories and fasting.
4. Mitochondrial Health = Metabolic Health
Red light therapy enhances mitochondrial function, which is critical for metabolism, energy, and hormone balance. Healthier mitochondria = more efficient fat burning and less fatigue during weight loss.
🌞 My Red Light Protocol (Month by Month)
I started slowly and am building up intensity and exposure as my fat loss progresses, so that my skin and lymphatic system stay supported.
I use a full body red light mat with both 660 nm (red) and 850 nm (near-infrared) wavelengths.
I started at Power Level 1 (50W), and month-by-month I am moving up a power level (which increase by 20W intervals) while continuing to use 10 minutes of exposure to all body areas.
I apply red light before bed to support circulation, relaxation, and lymph movement.
✨ Why It’s Worth It
Losing 50+ pounds is about more than the scale. It’s about preserving skin elasticity, reducing lipedema pain, and promoting long-term cellular health.
Red light therapy gives me an edge — one that feels good, supports healing, and helps my body adapt gracefully to the changes I’m creating with nutrition, fasting, and movement.
Want to Try Red Light Therapy?
If you’re on a weight loss journey with lipedema, I highly recommend trying a full body red light mat, like this one I use. There are many options that can make a real difference — even in just 10 minutes a day.
📚 References:
Jackson RF, et al. “Photonic lipolysis: A clinical trial.” Lasers in Surgery and Medicine, 2012.
Avci P, et al. “Low-level laser (light) therapy (LLLT) in skin.” Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, 2013.
One of the most frustrating parts of weight loss — especially with lipedema — is how easily progress stalls. You can eat clean, cut calories, and move your body, yet the scale barely budges. I’ve been there.
That’s why, after years of research and personal experimentation, I built a calorie tapering strategy into my LipedemaVegan 180-Day Protocol — and in addition to carbohydrate tapering and the unique supplements I take, it’s been a game-changer.
Here’s exactly how it works, why I chose this method, and how it helps prevent weight loss plateauswithout wrecking your hormones.
🔄 What Is Calorie Tapering?
Calorie tapering is a structured way to gradually reduce calorie intake across the week, rather than cutting calories evenly every day.
Here’s how I do it:
Day
Calories
Saturday
2300
Sunday
1500
Monday
1400
Tuesday
1300
Wednesday
1200
Thursday
1100
Friday
0 (Full fast)
Total weekly intake: 8800 calories
This creates a weekly deficit of ~7,000 calories, which equals about 2 pounds of fat loss per week — without daily restriction or metabolic burnout.
💡 Why I Structured It This Way
1. High Calorie Day to Reboot Leptin and Preserve Muscle
Saturday’s 2300-calorie day gives my body a break and prevents the drop in leptin and thyroid hormones that often happen with prolonged calorie restriction. This helps:
Preserve lean muscle mass
Boost fat-burning hormones
Reduce binge risk or cravings later in the week
2. Gradual Reduction to Ease Into Fasting
Instead of jumping straight from eating to fasting, I gently reduce intake day by day. This:
Eases hunger and blood sugar crashes
Supports stable energy and mood
Mimics ancestral eating rhythms
3. Friday Fast for Autophagy + Fat Burn
Friday is a 39-hour water fast (Thursday dinner to Saturday breakfast), which:
Accelerates autophagy (cellular cleanup)
Mobilizes stubborn fibrotic lipedema fat
Gives the digestive system a rest
🔺 Why This Works Better Than Daily Restriction
If you eat 1250 calories every day, your body adapts quickly — slowing metabolism, reducing thyroid output, and increasing hunger hormones. That’s why many women hit a wall after a few weeks of dieting.
But by cycling calories and including both high and ultra-low intake days, this plan:
Keeps the body guessing
Prevents metabolic adaptation
Encourages sustained, steady fat loss
💖 Supporting a Healthy Menstrual Cycle
Many women worry that fasting or calorie restriction will disrupt their cycles — and that’s a valid concern. I’ve experienced disruption to my otherwise very normal and regular menstrual cycles when I cut calories in the past. But on this unique caloric tapering plan, my cycles have no been negatively impacted!
The key is strategic nourishment, especially during the follicular phase (right after your period) and the luteal phase (before your period). Here’s how my tapering plan helps:
Saturday’s refeed restores leptin and carbs, which support healthy ovulation and progesterone production.
Mid-week intake is enough to provide micronutrients, B vitamins, and fatty acids needed for hormone synthesis.
Full-day fasting is buffered by days of adequate intake — so it doesn’t shock the system or signal famine.
For me, this approach has helped regulate my cycle, reduce PMS, and avoid hormonal crashes that came with harsher diets.
Over the past month, I’ve been fully committed to my 180-Day LipedemaVegan Protocol — a structured anti-inflammatory plan combining strategic fasting, plant-based nutrition, proteolytic enzymes, and targeted supplementation to reduce lipedema fat, inflammation, and overall weight.
To track my progress beyond the scale, I’ve been using InBody 770 scans every 4 weeks (in sync with my 28 day natural menstrual cycles). These scans go deeper than just weight — they break down water retention, fat mass, muscle mass, and more.
Due to the fact that my plan involves caloric and carbohydrate tapering and once a week full day of fasting on Friday (typically 39 hours of fasting between Thursday’s dinner and Saturday’s breakfast), I have quite a bit of fluctuations on my daily weigh-in chart. But the overall rate is 2.2 pounds per week!
Here’s what happened over 4 weeks:
🔍 Key Changes: February 24 to March 24
Category
Feb 24
Mar 24
Change
Weight
237.3 lbs
228.5 lbs
⬇ 8.8 lbs (2.2 pounds per week on average!)
Body Fat Mass
120.2 lbs
114.5 lbs
⬇ 5.7 lbs
Skeletal Muscle Mass
64.4 lbs
62.4 lbs
⬇ 2.0 lbs
Body Fat %
50.6%
50.1%
⬇ 0.5%
Visceral Fat Area
254.5 cm²
246.5 cm²
⬇ 8 cm²
Dry Lean Mass
31.3 lbs
30.2 lbs
⬇ 1.1 lbs
Intracellular Water
52.7 lbs
51.4 lbs
⬇ 1.3 lbs
Extracellular Water
33.1 lbs
32.4 lbs
⬇ 0.7 lbs
💡 What These Numbers Mean
✅ 1. Nearly 9 Pounds Down in 4 Weeks
This is a strong, healthy rate of fat loss — especially considering my protocol prioritizes sustainable fat loss and lymphatic support for lipedema. Most notably, over 5.5 lbs of the loss came directly from fat.
🧠 2. Muscle Loss or… Something Else?
The InBody scan registered a 2-pound drop in skeletal muscle mass. At first glance, that might seem concerning — but here’s why I believe it’s not a true loss of muscle, and actually a sign that the protocol is working:
💪 My muscle-preserving strategies:
100g+ of plant-based protein per day (same as before I started)
No reduction in physical activity or movement
Strategic intake of resistant starches and leucine-rich protein sources
Balanced calorie tapering (not crash dieting)
Given this, my body should be retaining most of its lean mass — and typically, someone losing 9 lbs in a month under these conditions would lose only ~1–1.5 lbs of muscle at most.
✨ My hypothesis:
The extra 0.5–1 lb “muscle loss” reported is likely dense, fibrotic tissue breaking down — a hallmark of lipedema fat that often registers closer to lean mass in body scans.
In other words: I’m not just losing fat. I’m dismantling fibrosis.
💧 3. Improved Water Balance
Both intracellular and extracellular water dropped slightly, aligning with reduced inflammation and potential lymphatic flow improvement. ECW/TBW ratios remained stable — no signs of dehydration.
🔥 4. Visceral Fat Reduction
My visceral fat area shrank by 8 cm². This type of deep belly fat fuels systemic inflammation, so this is a powerful sign of internal healing.
🧍♀️ 5. Fat Loss in Arms, Trunk, Legs
Right arm: ⬇ 1.3 lbs
Left arm: ⬇ 1.1 lbs
Trunk: ⬇ 2.6 lbs
Legs: ⬇ 1.2 lbs (combined)
This shows that even areas notoriously resistant to change in lipedema are responding.
🌿 What I’ll Do Next
Stick with my current protocol — it’s clearly working
Focus on hydration and Vitamin Cintake
Continue enzymes + anti-fibrotic support (curcumin, resveratrol, lymphatic herbs)
📉 In Summary
After 4 weeks:
I lost 8.8 lbs, mostly fat
My body fat % dropped
My visceral fat and inflammation are improving
My protocol may be breaking down fibrosis, not just fat
This journey isn’t just about the number on the scale — it’s about healing at a deeper level. If you’re on a similar path with lipedema, know this: progress might be slow or subtle, but with the right tools, it’s not only possible — it’s measurable.
Hey everyone, and welcome back to my channel! I wanted to give a one-month update on my 180-Day Lipedema Vegan Protocol. The results so far have been super encouraging. In just 26 days, I’ve lost 13 pounds. And no, I’m not following a keto diet—I actually just ate some vegan frozen pizza, so definitely far from it.
I have a moderate-carb lunch every day and a low-carb dinner to encourage autophagy overnight. It’s working great for me because I’m a busy toddler mom who’s also self-employed with my own family business.
On Monday, I’ll be doing my second InBody scan, and I’m super excited to see the results. I check in with the scale every day, but it’ll be interesting to see which arms, legs, or areas of the body the weight has been removed from—and that’s what you get with the InBody scan. I’m doing them every 28 days because that’s the length of my menstrual cycle. By doing it on the same day of the cycle every month, it’ll accommodate for menstrual-related water retention, etc.
In addition to monitoring my weight loss every day and over the course of this 180-day protocol, I’ve also been feeling the fat tissues on my body to notice changes in them. When lipedema is first diagnosed, one of the areas that you can check is the cubital region, which is right above the elbow. When you palpate that fat, women with lipedema tend to have this granular, nodular, fibrotic feeling to the fat that exists in that region of the body. It’s also in your legs and other parts of the body that are affected by lipedema, but it’s easier to feel right above the elbow.
When I started, it felt kind of like a bag of rice—like feeling through the very thin, soft skin there and noticing all these granular pieces of proteins and fibrotic tissues developed within the fat. That area has softened tremendously, so that’s how I know my protocol is working. I’ve also noticed the same effect in my lower abdomen and my legs, but it’s really noticeable in the arms.
I’m super excited to see what five more months of this protocol will do. As I’ve mentioned in the past, this protocol is not just about diet or just about supplements—it’s also about therapies that I’m using, including manual lymphatic drainage. I had always heard it was good for you, but I didn’t know how to do it, so I taught myself.
I’m also using red light therapy. This is new technology, and I bought a full-body size mat that I lay on—on my stomach, face down for 10 minutes, and then I flip over and lay on my backside for 10 minutes—so it’s full-body coverage. I do that completely nude for full skin exposure. The mat I have has five power levels. I started on power level one at the start of this month, which is 50 watts. Every red light therapy machine has different settings, so feel free to ask in the comments if you want more details.
I just bumped it up to level two, which is 90 watts. I’m happy to link to the specific mat that I’m using. I do it right before bed, and I already really feel a difference after moving it up to level two. You increase gradually because you want your body to adjust to the red light exposure.
The main reason I’m using red light therapy is because it helps with lymphatic circulation. I also hope to lose 50+ pounds, and I believe the red light therapy will help tighten the skin. Red light increases circulation at the skin level, and with the supplement protocol that I am on, the red light is bringing my blood to the surface of the skin. It is anti-inflammatory, helping with circulation and microcirculation at the skin level, which I believe helps break down extra skin laxity as I lose weight.
Aside from weight loss on the scale and the palpable changes I’m feeling by examining the texture of the fat on my body, I’m also noticing that all my clothes fit way better. I feel way more comfortable in my skin, and I just can’t wait for continued results.
The diet plan I’m on is keeping my blood sugar really stable. I have no brain fog, and I have tons of energy. Again, I’m a toddler mom and self-employed with a first-generation farm business that keeps us really, really busy. Yet I’m able to follow this protocol and get all the tasks done that I need to for my day, my baby, and my family.
The main reason I designed some of the supplements to be included in this 180-day protocol was for hunger regulation. I consider myself a very hungry person—a volume eater, a big eater. The supplements I’m taking are helping keep my hunger levels down, which is key to sticking to a plan like this long-term. I think that’s why I’m seeing the results that I am.
In a few days, I’ll be posting my InBody scan results. I can’t wait to see where the weight loss is happening in my body and what other changes are occurring. So follow me on all the socials at @LipedemaVegan, check out my website LipedemaVegan.com, and subscribe to this YouTube channel.
The next video coming will be all about that InBody scan and the results that I’m getting after one month.
Resistant starch is gaining attention in the nutrition world for its unique ability to support gut health, enhance insulin sensitivity, and contribute to fat loss. For women with lipedema, resistant starch can be an essential part of a balanced, anti-inflammatory vegan diet that promotes stable blood sugar, reduced inflammation, and improved digestion.
As part of my 180-day Vegan Lipedema Fat Reduction Protocol, I strategically include resistant starch in lunches as part of my carbohydrate tapering approach—consuming moderate amounts of complex, slow-digesting carbs early in the day and tapering down to low-carb meals by dinner. This structure optimizes fat metabolism while supporting gut health, satiety, and blood sugar stability.
In this post, I’ll break down: ✅ What resistant starch is and why it’s beneficial ✅ The best vegan sources of resistant starch (since you won’t find ANY on a keto diet) ✅ Cooking techniques to increase resistant starch content ✅ How it fits into my lipedema diet plan
Let’s dive in!
What Is Resistant Starch?
Resistant starch (RS) is a type of carbohydrate that resists digestion in the small intestine and instead ferments in the large intestine, acting as a prebiotic fiber (Zaman et al., 2019). Unlike regular starches that quickly convert into glucose, resistant starch slows digestion, leading to improved insulin sensitivity, prolonged satiety, and beneficial gut bacteria growth (Zeng et al., 2023).
Key Benefits of Resistant Starch for Lipedema
Supports Insulin Sensitivity – Women with lipedema often struggle with impaired fat metabolism and lymphatic dysfunction, which can worsen with insulin resistance (Herbst, 2012). Resistant starch reduces postprandial blood sugar spikes, improving insulin sensitivity and promoting a fat-burning metabolic state (Robertson et al., 2005).
Feeds Beneficial Gut Bacteria – RS acts as a prebiotic, feeding gut bacteria like Bifidobacteria and Akkermansia muciniphila, both associated with lower inflammation, improved digestion, and enhanced fat metabolism (Martinez et al., 2010). Gut dysbiosis is commonly linked to lipedema, making gut health a key area of focus.
Increases Satiety and Reduces Hunger – Because RS slows digestion and produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate, it helps increase satiety hormones and reduce cravings (Zaman et al., 2019). This is particularly useful in appetite control and caloric deficit strategies for weight management in lipedema.
May Reduce Inflammation & Fibrosis – Some studies suggest RS modulates the immune system, reducing inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha and IL-6, which are elevated in lipedema (Zeng et al., 2023). Additionally, its influence on gut microbiota and SCFA production may indirectly affect fibrosis formation, a key issue in lipedema progression.
Best Vegan Sources of Resistant Starch
Resistant starch is naturally found in several plant-based foods, particularly legumes, whole grains, tubers, and green bananas. Below are some of the best vegan-friendly sources of resistant starch:
High-Resistant Starch Vegan Foods
Food
RS Type
Serving Suggestions
Cooked & Cooled Rice
RS3
Make cold rice salads or sushi rolls
Cooked & Cooled Potatoes
RS3
Use in potato salads or reheat gently
Green Bananas & Plantains
RS2
Blend into smoothies or slice over oatmeal
Lentils & Chickpeas
RS1 & RS3
Add to salads, soups, or hummus
Oats (Soaked or Cooked & Cooled)
RS3
Use in overnight oats or chilled oatmeal
Beans (Black Beans, Kidney Beans, Navy Beans)
RS1 & RS3
Include in chili, burritos, or cold bean salads
How Cooking & Cooling Enhances Resistant Starch
Cooking changes the starch structure, but cooling it afterward retrogrades the starch, increasing resistant starch content. Here’s how to maximize RS in your meals:
Cook & Cool Method (RS3 Formation)
Cook rice, potatoes, pasta, or oats and let them cool for at least 12 hours before consuming.
The cooling process increases resistant starch levels by up to 300% (Zaman et al., 2019).
The best part? Even if you reheat them later, they retain their resistant starch properties.
Eat Raw or Minimally Processed RS2 Sources
Green bananas, plantains, and some unprocessed grains contain RS2, which remains resistant unless cooked.
These are great to add raw in smoothies, muesli, or as a snack.
Use Legumes & Beans for RS1 & RS3
Soak, cook, and cool beans and lentils for maximum RS formation.
Adding them to cold salads or dips maintains their resistant starch benefits.
How Resistant Starch Fits into My 180-Day Vegan Lipedema Fat Reduction Protocol
In my 180-day protocol, I use resistant starch at lunch to: ✔ Provide slow-digesting carbohydrates for sustained energy without blood sugar spikes. ✔ Increase satiety to reduce hunger and cravings in the afternoon. ✔ Optimize gut microbiome health, which is crucial for inflammation control and metabolism. ✔ Support my carbohydrate tapering strategy, where I eat more carbs earlier in the day and reduce them in the evening to encourage fat-burning overnight.
Example Lunches in My Protocol
🥗 Cold Lentil & Chickpea Salad – A mix of cooled lentils, chickpeas, cucumbers, lemon dressing, and parsley for gut-friendly fiber and resistant starch.
🍚 Cooled Rice & Tofu Bowl – Jasmine or basmati rice, cooled overnight, with tofu, avocado, and miso dressing for a blood sugar-friendly, high-RS meal.
🥔 Potato & Bean Salad – Cooled roasted potatoes with black beans, tahini dressing, and kale for a high-RS, anti-inflammatory dish.
These meals keep me full, balance my energy, and promote metabolic flexibility, helping maximize fat loss while maintaining muscle mass.
Final Thoughts
Resistant starch is an underutilized tool for women with lipedema who want to enhance fat metabolism, stabilize blood sugar, and improve gut health. By strategically including cooked and cooled resistant starch sources in my protocol, I optimize digestion, insulin sensitivity, and satiety, making it easier to maintain a caloric deficit without excessive hunger.
Would you like to see more resistant starch meal ideas for your vegan lipedema diet? Let me know in the comments!
Citations
Herbst, K. L. (2012). Subcutaneous adipose tissue diseases: Dercum disease, lipedema, and familial multiple lipomatosis. Obesity Surgery, 22(4), 615-626.
Martinez, I., Kim, J., Duffy, P. R., Schlegel, V. L., & Walter, J. (2010). Resistant starches promote beneficial gut microbiota in humans. Applied and Environmental Microbiology, 76(13), 4365-4372.
Robertson, M. D., Bickerton, A. S., Dennis, A. L., Vidal, H., & Frayn, K. N. (2005). Insulin-sensitizing effects of dietary resistant starch. Diabetes, 54(4), 1047-1054.
Zaman, S. A., & Sarbini, S. R. (2019). The potential of resistant starch as a prebiotic. Critical Reviews in Biotechnology, 39(4), 495-507.
Zeng, Y., et al. (2023). Resistant starch: A functional carbohydrate improving metabolic health. Nutrients, 15(5), 1123.
Hi everyone, and welcome to my channel! If you’re new here, my name is Kelly, and I’ve designed a 180-day vegan lipedema transformation protocol based on evidence-based strategies. I’ve been a vegan for 12 years, and I credit that decision with maintaining my current stage of lipedema. It has not worsened significantly over the past 12 years, even though I went through pregnancy and natural childbirth with my now 2-year-old son. Now that I’m pushing 40, I still don’t think my lipedema has advanced much since I first realized I had it in my 20s, though the onset was back in puberty.
The biggest improvement I’ve noticed is that veganism removed a lot of the pain associated with lipedema. Specifically, when I removed dairy from my diet, I no longer experienced the painful sensation of walking—the reverberation of each step vibrating through my dense, bloated lipedema tissue. However, the appearance of my lipedema fat did not change much.
As women with lipedema, we constantly hear that there is no dietary or supplement-based cure for this condition. We are often told that the only solution is liposuction, but the truth is, I am terrified of surgical interventions. If it were a life-or-death situation, I would consider it, but for something that isn’t immediately life-threatening, I would rather explore every other option first.
After decades of yo-yo dieting and extreme dieting, I had all but given up on the idea that diet could make a difference. I had accepted that I would simply be a vegan with lipedema forever. But then, when the Ozempic craze started happening, I began researching the possibility of taking it. While I don’t take any medications and usually avoid long-term pharmaceutical interventions, I was curious about how it worked.
Ozempic primarily works in two ways that influence weight loss:
Severely reducing appetite, which makes people naturally eat less.
Since I already have excellent blood sugar control—my A1C is always 5.0 or below—I figured I probably wouldn’t even be a candidate for Ozempic if I approached my doctor. Plus, I had heard about some of the side effects, which made me hesitant. However, I was intrigued by the reports of people who suddenly lost their appetite.
This got me thinking—was there an alternative that could reduce appetite without using Ozempic?
I started researching substances that naturally suppress appetite. Of course, many 1990s weight loss pills were heavy stimulants, but that route was risky and dangerous. Then, I found something unexpected—nicotine.
I’ve never been a smoker, and we all know how addictive nicotine can be. But I discovered that at a low, microdose level, nicotine provides the same appetite-suppressing effects while staying below the threshold of addiction. Even more fascinating, nicotine has fat-mobilizing properties—it stimulates the body to release stored fat and convert it into energy.
Of course, for that to work, you have to be in a caloric deficit so your body actually needs to burn stored fat. At first, I thought, “Well, that’s great for people without lipedema, but my fat cells are different.” Everything I had ever been told about lipedema said that diet and exercise alone wouldn’t work.
So, I asked myself: What makes lipedema fat different?
I found that lipedema fat is trapped in a fibrotic extracellular matrix—a dense web of connective tissue that physically prevents the body from accessing and burning that fat. This explains why so many women with lipedema report that their legs stay cold, even hours after coming inside from the cold. I experience this all the time—living in Colorado, I’ll come inside, sit on the couch for hours, and my legs remain freezing cold. This is due to poor circulation and a lack of blood flow reaching the lipedema-affected areas.
I also learned that one of the root causes of lipedema is leaky lymphatics. The lymphatic system isn’t properly clearing out waste, leading to inflammation, fat accumulation, and fibrosis. So it wasn’t just fat preventing weight loss—it was fibrotic tissue blocking access to the fat cells.
This led me to the next phase of my research—finding something that could break down fibrosis.
That’s when I discovered proteolytic enzymes.
In my protocol, I take three different types of proteolytic enzymes at very specific times of the day for maximum effectiveness. These enzymes enter the bloodstream and break down fibrosis in the body. I found research on proteolytic enzymes being used in conditions like cystic fibrosis and other fibrotic disorders—and the idea of using them to target lipedema fibrosis made perfect sense.
At first, I simply took proteolytic enzymes daily while following a healthy diet. But I did not lose any significant weight.
That’s when I decided to combine three key strategies into a single, structured protocol:
Caloric deficit – Forcing my body to burn stored fat.
Proteolytic enzymes – Breaking down the fibrotic extracellular matrix surrounding lipedema fat cells.
Nicotine (low-dose, microdosing) – Suppressing appetite and mobilizing fat.
Interestingly, nicotine also has some research suggesting that it helps break down fibrotic tissue, which further convinced me that this might actually work.
But my protocol doesn’t stop there—I have several other strategies I’m using, which I will cover in future videos. This is just the core of my approach.
Before I wrap up, I want to make one thing very clear—this is an experimental protocol. There is no existing research proving that this works. I am literally the study—an N=1 experiment—and I’m sharing my results in real-time.
This is not medical advice. I am not a doctor, and I am not recommending anyone try this without doing their own research and consulting a medical professional. If you are pregnant, taking medications, or have conditions like high blood pressure, this approach may not be safe for you.
That said, I will be documenting my entire journey, including: ✅ Bioimpedance scans ✅ Weigh-ins ✅ Progress pictures
I am scheduling my next InBody scan, which will show me exactly where I am losing fat and whether this protocol is working.
Thank you for watching! Subscribe and follow me on all my socials @lipedemavegan to stay updated on my progress!
For years, women with lipedema have been told that the keto diet is their best option for weight management and reducing inflammation. This recommendation is widespread in lipedema communities, often touted as the only non-surgical intervention available. However, a growing body of research suggests that keto may not be the best choice—and could even be harmful for women with lipedema.
A moderate- to low-carb whole-food vegan diet offers a more sustainable, anti-inflammatory, and effective approach to managing lipedema. Let’s break down the issues with keto and why plant-based eating is the superior choice.
The Problem with Keto for Lipedema
The ketogenic diet is a high-fat, ultra-low-carb diet that forces the body into ketosis, where fat is burned for fuel instead of carbohydrates. While some women report short-term weight loss, keto presents several key problems for women with lipedema:
1. Keto Promotes Inflammation—Especially Due to Dairy Consumption
One of the biggest pitfalls of keto is the heavy reliance on animal-based fats and proteins, particularly dairy and processed meats. Dairy products, including cheese and butter, contain casein and saturated fat, both of which have been shown to increase inflammation and contribute to lymphatic dysfunction, which is already a key issue in lipedema (Lerner et al., 2018).
Many women with lipedema experience worsened symptoms with dairy consumption due to its role in promoting low-grade chronic inflammation (Wang et al., 2021). Additionally, saturated fats found in animal products are linked to increased lymphatic permeability, which may exacerbate fluid retention in lipedema (Zhang et al., 2022).
2. Keto Can Negatively Impact Gut Health
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune function, metabolism, and inflammation regulation. Diets high in animal-based fats and proteins (like keto) have been linked to dysbiosis, an imbalance of gut bacteria that promotes systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction (Cani et al., 2019).
On the other hand, a fiber-rich, plant-based diet supports a diverse, healthy gut microbiome, leading to better digestion, reduced inflammation, and improved weight management. Fiber is completely absent in animal foods, making keto inherently deficient in this essential nutrient.
3. Keto May Increase the Risk of Lymphedema and Fibrosis
Lipedema often progresses to secondary lymphedema, where excess fluid builds up due to impaired lymphatic function. A high-fat diet—especially one rich in saturated fats—has been shown to increase lymphatic vessel leakage and impair fluid clearance, which can worsen swelling and fibrosis in women with lipedema (Weitman et al., 2020).
Switching to a plant-based diet rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and fiber can significantly improve lymphatic flow and reduce fibrotic tissue formation.
Why a Moderate- to Low-Carb Whole-Food Vegan Diet Is Better for Lipedema
A whole-food vegan diet, particularly one that is moderate to low in carbohydrates, provides all the benefits of keto without the drawbacks. Here’s why it works better:
1. A Vegan Diet Is Naturally Anti-Inflammatory
Unlike keto, which relies heavily on pro-inflammatory foods (dairy, red meat, processed oils), a plant-based diet is naturally rich in anti-inflammatory compounds.
Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts) contain sulforaphane, which reduces chronic inflammation and oxidative stress (Dinkova-Kostova et al., 2021).
Berries, flaxseeds, and walnuts provide omega-3 fatty acids, which combat lipedema-related inflammation and swelling.
Turmeric, ginger, and green tea contain potent polyphenols that have been shown to reduce fibrosis and improve lymphatic function (Guo et al., 2019).
2. Plant-Based Eating Supports Lymphatic Drainage
A diet rich in whole plant foods naturally supports lymphatic circulation and detoxification. Unlike saturated animal fats, which slow lymphatic flow, healthy plant-based fats (avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil) promote lymphatic elasticity and optimal drainage.
Additionally, high-water-content foods like cucumbers, celery, and citrus fruits help flush out excess fluids and toxins, which is crucial for managing lipedema.
3. Sustainable Weight Loss Without Metabolic Damage
Many women experience temporary weight loss on keto, but it often slows down over time, leading to frustration and metabolic issues. Research shows that long-term keto can reduce thyroid function and lead to muscle loss due to the lack of sufficient carbohydrates (Merra et al., 2020).
A moderate- to low-carb vegan diet provides enough resistant starch (found in lentils, beans, and cooled sweet potatoes) to support healthy metabolism and satiety, preventing muscle loss and metabolic slowdown.
4. Improved Hormonal Balance
Hormonal imbalances, particularly estrogen dominance, play a key role in lipedema. Dairy and animal fats contain estrogen-mimicking compounds that can exacerbate lipedema symptoms (Koo et al., 2021). In contrast, a plant-based diet naturally lowers excess estrogen levels, helping to balance hormones and reduce fat accumulation in the lower body. (On a personal note, I’d be happy to share more about my perfect 28 day menstrual cycles and my perfect geriatric pregnancy that resulted in a perfect unmedicated natural waterbirth delivery of a perfect 7 pound 14 ounce vegan newborn baby boy!)
The Bottom Line
The keto diet is outdated advice for women with lipedema. While it may lead to short-term weight loss, its inflammatory effects, impact on gut health, and lymphatic impairment make it a poor long-term solution.
A moderate- to low-carb whole-food vegan diet offers the same metabolic benefits as keto—without the inflammation, hormone disruption, or lymphatic damage. By focusing on plant-based proteins, healthy fats, resistant starches, and fiber, women with lipedema can reduce swelling, improve mobility, and sustainably lose weight—while also protecting their long-term health.
If you’re looking for a sustainable, science-backed approach to lipedema weight loss, consider making the switch to a whole-food, anti-inflammatory vegan diet. Your body will thank you!
Citations (something that the pro-keto people never provide)
Cani, P. D., et al. (2019). Gut microbiota-mediated inflammation in obesity: Causes, consequences, and therapeutic perspectives. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 15(5), 285-299.
Dinkova-Kostova, A. T., et al. (2021). Sulforaphane: A Nrf2 activator for promoting healthy aging. Trends in Pharmacological Sciences, 42(8), 640-653.
Guo, X., et al. (2019). Effects of polyphenols on lymphatic function and chronic inflammation. Nutrients, 11(4), 798.
Lerner, A., et al. (2018). The gut microbiome and inflammation in lipedema. Frontiers in Immunology, 9, 1845.
Weitman, E. S., et al. (2020). High-fat diet exacerbates lymphatic dysfunction. Journal of Lipid Research, 61(3), 419-431.
The internet is filled with people who want to tell you good news about your bad habits. 🧁 People who have never experienced obesity think that their 25 pound weight loss (if that!) gives them the authority to tell overweight and obese people that eating the foods that made them fat in the first place will result in weight loss, if they just listen to their bodies. 🤡 Here is the problem with that logic:
🍎 Obesity is caused by insulin resistance and overeating. If people could control their overeating, they wouldn’t be obese in the first place. What’s the solution? Eat the right foods that cure insulin resistance, such as those advocated by @masteringdiabetes ! Whole food plant based low fat foods for the win! 🍎 Obese people often have stretched out stomachs from years of overeating. Is a 100 calorie pack of Oreos going to help them reach their a healthy weight? No- but a low fat whole food plant based diet allows for individuals to eat higher food volume since veggies, fruit, whole grains, potatoes, and legumes are so calorie dilute versus all of the processed crap in the grocery store. 🍎 Obese people have disregulation of their grehlin and leptin systems- which may actually be a genetic issue. Telling obese people to “just stop eating when you are full” is absolutely fat shaming. But filling up on high water content and fiber foods that stretches the stomach lining and effectively signals to the brain that the meal can end is the solution. Not oily foods or processed protein powders, but real whole plant based food filled with micronutrients.
I’m not afraid to use the word “obese” because I’ve been there. And when I studied neuroscience in my undergrad, my professors were involved in research equating the effects of high sugar and high fat foods on the brains of obese people to that of cocaine on the brains of addicts or alcohol on the brains of alcoholics.
I’m definitely not saying you can’t enjoy a slice of birthday cake or some vegan pizza on your date night, but if your goal is weight loss, the name of the game is discipline in eating whole food plant based to create a consistent calorie deficit. The caloric deficit is the only way, and it’s a lot easier to accomplish long term by focusing on whole foods!
LipedemaVegan 