Lipedema, the disease they call fat, is a chronic fat disorder that affects 17 million women in the USA and as many as 350 million women worldwide. It is often mistaken for simple obesity. Generally under-recognized and misdiagnosed, symptoms include pain, swelling, and weight gain disproportionately distributed in the thighs, buttocks, legs, and hips with a smaller upper body. Lipedema fat is resistant to diet and exercise and without intervention, progresses and worsens over time. This fla ...
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Welcome to Living Well with Lipedema – Surgery Simplified. In this heartfelt episode, your host, Catherine, shares her deeply personal journey with lipedema. From years of misdiagnosis to the challenges of navigating complex surgeries, Catherine opens up about the struggles she faced and the lessons she learned along the way. Hear how she found hop…
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Welcome to Living Well with Lipedema – Surgery Simplified! In this first episode, your hosts, Catherine Seo, PhD, founder of Lipedema Simplified, and Michelle Jaqua, RN, CCM, bring their combined expertise and compassion to guide you through the complexities of lipedema and the journey toward living well. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, considering…
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After being diagnosed with lipo-lymphedema, Nobuhle Williams' doctor recommended an anti-inflammatory diet and suggested keto as a potential path to success. Initially skeptical, she struggled with the belief that saturated fat was harmful. It took a few months of learning about the carb-heavy nature of many foods and the importance of fat in a hea…
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In this episode, Mende Staggs shares the transformative health benefits she has experienced through a ketogenic way of eating. Mende’s keto journey began in August 2016 after hearing the first Keto for Lipedema webinar. Struggling with a lifetime of unsuccessful diets and a recent lipedema diagnosis, she was skeptical about the impact changing her …
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In this episode, Professor Tim Noakes shares his journey to discovering the benefits of a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet as a healthier alternative. A renowned South African scientist, emeritus professor in Exercise Science and Sports Medicine at the University of Cape Town, and author of The Real Meal Revolution and Lore of Nutrition, Prof…
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In this episode, we share an excerpt from a 2016 interview with Carol Lange during our Lipedema Worldwide Summit. Carol, hailing from Adelaide, Australia, recounts her personal journey of discovering she had lipedema and sheds light on the symptoms that led to her diagnosis.Lipedema Simplified
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Today, we’re joined by Dr. Stanley Rockson to explore the innovative research aimed at identifying a biomarker for lipedema. Dr. Rockson is the Allen and Tina Neill Professor of Lymphatic Research and Medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. He also serves as Stanford’s Chief of Consultative Cardiology and the Director of the Stanford Ce…
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Hyperinsulinemia—a condition of elevated insulin levels—is commonly observed in women during life stages and events such as puberty, pregnancy, stress, surgery, illness, injury, perimenopause, and menopause.Lipedema Simplified
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In this episode, Gail Straker explains what happens in your body during a weight-loss stall and shares strategies to help you overcome it.Lipedema Simplified
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Today, I’m sharing an inspiring excerpt from our 2019 Lipedema & Keto Worldwide Summit featuring Jason Quinn, a Zen Health Coach. In this interview, Jason discusses the importance of tracking your progress, connecting with your body, and understanding the deeper reasons behind your health goals.Lipedema Simplified
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In this episode, Rosey dives into the concept of famine response, explaining how to identify the signs that your body is entering starvation mode and how adopting a keto way of eating can support you during this process.Lipedema Simplified
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Today, I have an excerpt from a presentation by Lizabeth Gottsegen, at Lipedema Simplified’s October 2023 Heart to Heart virtual event. Lizbeth is a massage therapist, certified lymphedema therapist, and aquatic therapist with a private practice in New York City called Real Swell Private Practice. In this excerpt, Lizabeth talks about why water is …
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Today, we highlight one of the physical approaches in managing lipedema: complete decongestive therapy. This therapy combines several proven techniques, including manual lymphatic drainage massage, bandaging or wrapping, compression therapy, exercise, and skincare. When applied correctly, these methods can lead to remarkable success.…
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Today, I’m sharing a powerful moment from our 2017 Lipedema & Keto Worldwide Summit, featuring Betty Copping. In this excerpt, Betty opens up about her lipedema diagnosis and her struggles with weight loss despite countless diets. Determined to find a solution, she decided to explore the ketogenic lifestyle.…
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Today, I’d like to tell you about a study by a group in Norway led by Julianne Lundanes and Siren Nymo. They have done several studies about lipedema and carb-restricted diets. The paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Clinical Nutrition ESPEN (The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism) in November 2024 is titled, The effect…
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In this episode, Raeann Sparks emphasizes the importance of recognizing lipedema as a medical condition that needs specialized care. She discusses the healthcare professionals who are best equipped to diagnose and treat lipedema, providing helpful guidance on how to find the right support. Listen in to understand why early detection and appropriate…
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In this episode, Jason Quinn offers his simple approach to starting and maintaining a ketogenic lifestyle. With over two years of personal keto experience and certification as a Dr. Berg Keto Coach, Jason breaks down how to make the transition smooth and how to keep things exciting once you’re adapted. Beyond keto, Jason’s 22 years of meditation pr…
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Are weight challenges driven by biology, psychology, or a combination of both? In this episode, we unpack the intricate relationship between physical and mental factors that contribute to weight struggles. By identifying the root causes—be they hormonal, metabolic, emotional, or behavioral—you can find solutions tailored to your unique needs. Join …
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In this episode, we revisit a compelling excerpt from the 2016 Lipedema Worldwide Summit with Dr. Stanley Rockson. As the Director of the Stanford Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders and a leader in lymphatic research, Dr. Rockson provides an inside look at Stanford University’s pioneering patient registry and biorepository for lymphatic diso…
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In this episode, we welcome Kay Sheppard, renowned food addiction expert and author of Food Addiction: The Body Knows. Kay reveals the surprising parallels between sugar and drug addiction, explaining how both substances impact brain chemistry and foster addictive behaviors. We also dive into the roots of weight challenges, exploring whether they s…
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In this episode, Nobulhe Williams shares her personal journey with stage 4 lipedema and lymphedema, a diagnosis that severely impacted my mobility and caused debilitating pain. Her story is a testament to the power of patience, diligence, and commitment to treatment.Lipedema Simplified
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In this episode, learn how cold therapy can be a powerful tool for managing lipedema. By incorporating practices like ice baths, cold plunges, snow rolls, and under-dressing for winter activities, you can promote lymphatic movement, improve insulin sensitivity, relieve pain, and boost metabolism. Discover practical ways to integrate cold therapy in…
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Today, I have an excerpt from a presentation by Lisa and Randy Duerre at Lipedema Simplified’s October 2023 Heart to Heart virtual event. Lisa is the Managing Director of Lipedema Simplified and she also serves on the Board of Directors for Lipedema Project, a nonprofit organization devoted to raising awareness through advocacy, education, and rese…
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In this episode, Wendy Singer shares the origins of laughter yoga and how this unique practice can help ease pain and reduce stress for those living with chronic conditions. Wendy also reflects on her personal journey, revealing how laughter yoga became a powerful tool for managing her own health challenges.…
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In this episode, we explore a pivotal study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery - Global Open (April 2021) titled Survey Outcomes of Lipedema Reduction Surgery in the United States. This research collected self-reported data from women with lipedema who underwent reduction surgery, focusing on improvements in quality of life, pain level…
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Lipedema’s unique fat distribution can place excessive strain on leg joints, potentially leading to osteoarthritis. In this episode, we explore how improperly weighted joints impact mobility and discuss both conventional and surgical treatment options to alleviate joint pain and improve function.Lipedema Simplified
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This episode discusses how calorie restriction triggers a famine response, impacting hormones that regulate thyroid function, metabolism, and energy. Learn about the effects of these hormonal shifts and how to identify and address thyroid imbalances, including fatigue and weight fluctuations.Lipedema Simplified
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In this episode, Professor Tim Noakes, a renowned South African scientist and emeritus professor from the University of Cape Town, explores the evolution of the human diet. Drawing from his extensive research in sports science and his advocacy for a low-carbohydrate, high-fat (LCHF) diet, Professor Noakes challenges conventional dietary wisdom. As …
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In this episode, Dr. Dhruv Singhal, a leading expert in lymphatic reconstruction, uses a creative train analogy to simplify the complexities of lymphedema. As the Director of the Lymphatic Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and an Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School, Dr. Singhal shares insights from his groundbreaking work in …
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In today’s episode, we’ll talk about a paper that discusses a potential pathway for chronic low-grade inflammation to occur in lipedema, which contributes to resistance to fat loss and promotes further adipose tissue expansion. The paper is titled, “Is the endotoxin–complement cascade the major driver in lipedema?” by Dr. Kruglikov from Germany and…
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Despite progressing to stage 3 lipedema and facing mobility challenges, Raeann Sparks shares how cycling became her key to regaining independence. Prescribed 15 minutes of daily cycling to lubricate her knees, she embraced cycling, swimming, and walking with cycling-like motions. Today, Raeann can walk a mile unaided, proving that consistent moveme…
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Take a moment for yourself with this 5-minute guided visualization. Sit back, breathe deeply, and let your awareness embrace your entire being—mind, body, and soul. Led by Catherine Seo, this exercise offers a gentle path to relaxation and self-discovery.Lipedema Simplified
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This Thanksgiving, we reflect on the many things we’re grateful for, no matter where you are in the world. Despite the challenges of the pandemic, there’s so much to celebrate. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!Lipedema Simplified
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This episode highlights a 2020 study by researchers in Ankara, Turkey, published in Lymphatic Research and Biology. The study examines the impact of complex decongestive physiotherapy (CDP) combined with an intermittent pneumatic compression pump on reducing limb circumference and volume in lipedema patients. While limited by the absence of a contr…
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Today, I have an excerpt from a presentation by Dr. Matthew Carmody at Lipedema Simplified’s April 2024 Heart to Heart virtual event: Keto and Beyond: Customizing Your Plan to Joyful Nutrition. His talk was titled: Semaglutide: Magic or Malevolent? Dr. Carmody is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a Diplomate of the Am…
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Discover the profound impact of diaphragmatic breathing in this calming episode with Catherine Seo. Learn how this simple yet powerful technique can help you relax, recharge, and restore balance in your everyday life.Lipedema Simplified
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In this episode, we revisit an inspiring 2019 Lipedema & Keto Worldwide Summit interview with low-carb dietitian Franziska Spritzler. Franziska shares her journey from conventional training to adopting a low-carb approach for herself and her patients. She offers insights into how this method can support those with lipedema—reminding us that progres…
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Today I’d like to tell you about a paper by a group of clinicians/researchers in Brazil including Drs. Alexandre and Juliana Amato and Dr. Daniel Benitti. The paper is titled, “The Efficacy of Ketogenic Diets (Low Carbohydrate; High Fat) as a Potential Nutritional Intervention for Lipedema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” It was published i…
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In this episode, I’m sharing an eye-opening excerpt from our 2017 Lipedema & Keto Worldwide Summit. Investigative journalist and author Nina Teicholz (The Big Fat Surprise) dives into the "politics of fat," tracing the roots of the Diet-Heart Hypothesis and how it led to our fear of dietary fat.Lipedema Simplified
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Today’s episode dives into groundbreaking research from São Paulo, Brazil, where Drs. Amato, Saucedo, Santos, and Benitti explored the potential of ultrasound imaging to distinguish lipedema. Published in Phlebology (April 2021), their study examines how skin and tissue thickness measurements can enhance diagnostic precision. Join me to uncover how…
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In this episode, Raeann Sparks explains the five distinct types of lipedema, each with unique characteristics: Type 1: Resembles a “puffy diaper” effect, with lipedema fat around the hips. Type 2: Extends to the knees, similar to bloomers or joggers. Type 3: Reaches the ankles, like harem pants. Type 4: Affects only the arms, resembling mutton-chop…
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Today, I’d like to discuss a study led by Dr. Uwe Wollina and colleagues in Dresden, Germany, published in the Dermatologic Therapy journal's January/February 2021 issue. The article, titled Cause and Management of Lipedema-Associated Pain, explores the underlying causes of pain in lipedema, which the authors attribute to factors such as allodynia,…
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Today, we welcome guests Pamela and Brad Thompson, educators and certified practitioners in Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), also known as tapping. They’ll share how tapping leverages the mind-body connection to achieve remarkable results. Brad often uses a file cabinet metaphor to explain how our stored emotions from the past can impact us in th…
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Today, Dr. Carol Rowsemitt delves into Famine Response Hypothyroidism, discussing its unique impact on women with lipedema, including those on a ketogenic diet. Dr. Carol “Rosey” Rowsemitt, PhD, RN, FNP, began her career as a scientist focused on ecological physiology (holding a BA in chemistry and PhD in biology) before transitioning to practice a…
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Today, I’d like to share insights from a study by a group of clinicians in Germany, published in the medical journal Phlebologie in 2019. The article, titled Effects of Aqua Cycling as Exercise Therapy for Lipoedema, highlights the benefits of aqua cycling—a form of stationary cycling where the bike is submerged underwater, with water typically rea…
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I first connected with Leslyn at the National Institutes of Health’s inaugural international symposium on the lymphatic system, where she presented her research showing that a ketogenic diet could benefit individuals with obesity and lymphedema-related chronic conditions. This sparked a conversation on whether keto might also help with lipedema, gi…
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In this excerpt, Dr. Eric Westman shares insights from his Lifestyle Medicine Clinic, where he has seen patients with a variety of health conditions, including lymphedema and lipedema, achieve positive outcomes through a ketogenic diet. Dr. Westman, an Associate Professor of Medicine at Duke University and board-certified in Obesity Medicine and In…
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We’re excited to share about the publication of our article, "Ketogenic Diet as a Potential Intervention for Lipedema," released by Elsevier, one of the world’s leading medical publishers. This article was a collaborative effort by an outstanding team, and it examines how lipedema differs from obesity and lymphedema, along with its symptoms and dia…
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Today, I’d like to share an excerpt from Dr. Matthew Carmody’s presentation at the Lipedema Simplified Summer Boot Camp, held in June 2022 as part of Lipedema Awareness Month. Dr. Carmody, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, recently retired from his practice in Inter…
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Understanding the Link Between Lipedema and Lymphedema: The Role of Obesity in Disease Progression
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Today, we discuss the findings from a study conducted by a team of researchers in Brazil, published in the medical journal Cureus in December 2020. The study, titled Lipedema and the Evolution to Lymphedema with the Progression of Obesity, aimed to examine the prevalence of systemic lymphedema in lipedema patients based on weight. The data indicate…
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