Vitamin Supplementation for Lipedema

There are vitamins for lipedema that are recommended by some practitioners. The use of supplements is part of the conservative management for lipedema, a condition that affects 11 percent of the female population.

Experts still don’t know what exactly causes lipedema. It happens when fat is distributed in an irregular way beneath the skin. Typically affecting the lower extremities such as the buttocks and the legs, the condition isn’t just a cosmetic concern as it can eventually cause pain, limitations in physical movements, and complications like lymphedema. Unmanaged lipedema can cause more problems like infections, scar-like tissue called fibrosis and delayed wound healing.

The following are some of the supplement recommendations from lipedema experts:

Selenium

Bilateral leg swelling is a common symptom of lipedema sufferers. This is where selenium supplement becomes helpful.

Selenium can reduce the swelling. When taken on a regular basis, it can increase the effectiveness of physical therapy and reduce the risk of infections.

Vitamin P

Vitamin P is a water-soluble antioxidant. Found in citrus fruits like mangoes and vegetables like broccoli and brussel sprouts, vitamin P helps in fending off free radicals.

Pycnogenol

Pycnogenol is another antioxidant that can benefit lipedema sufferers. It has antioxidant and bioflavonoid properties that provide protection against damage from free radicals and reduce capillary leakage which helps in reducing the swelling.

Wobenzyme and Vitalzyme

These are systemic enzymes that can reduce the swelling and formation of fibrotic tissues in the body.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid

This is an antioxidant that works for both lipedema and lymphedema cases as it’s both water and fat-soluble. It helps in fighting off free radicals.

N-Acetyl Cysteine

N-Acetyl Cysteine or NAC is a form of amino acid that works as an antioxidant. It protects the body from damage brought by free radicals such as tissue damage.

Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are one of the most recommended supplements for lipedema. They help in maintaining healthy blood vessel walls and may aid in maintaining the connective tissues.

One can have a positive or negative reaction to a supplement. This is why it’s important to let your healthcare provider know if you’re planning to take any of these vitamins for lipedema.

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