As a lipedema specialist in Tampa, Dr. Su knows very well the suffering that this condition can cause. Not only does lipedema cause physical issues, but it can also cause mental and emotional distress. Many sufferers find that their mobility declines over time while their lymphatic function and blood circulation become compromised. Although liposuction isn’t a cure for the condition, it’s the best long-term solution to reducing pain and discomfort. Liposuction removes the problematic fat cells that cause pain and suffering. It also reduces the size of the limbs, which helps to improve mobility and self-confidence. However, it’s important to be well-prepared to undergo lipedema liposuction. This is where good nutrition has a key role to play.
Lipedema and Inflammation
Inflammation because of lipedema in the hips, ankles, thighs, and arms can cause a lot of pain. Eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet can control that inflammation. More importantly, it can help sufferers to avoid putting on any more unnecessary weight. Therefore, eating an anti-inflammatory diet is the best choice for lipedema sufferers preparing for lipo.
Many lipedema sufferers report that their symptoms get worse after they eat processed foods or drink alcohol. They also often find that they feel worse after eating foods containing yeast. This is because there is an association between these foods and inflammation in the body. Avoiding those foods while including healthy dietary choices is a good way to improve inflammation.
What Do Avoid before Lipedema Liposuction
There are several foods you should avoid before having lipedema liposuction. These include animal fats and proteins, pasteurized dairy products, and simple sugars. You should also avoid all low glycemic carbohydrates and products containing wheat, salt, and processed flour.
It’s also advisable to avoid foods that contain a lot of chemicals. Artificial flavors and preservatives can exacerbate inflammation in the body. Artificial sweeteners, such as aspartame and stabilizers and colors, can have the same negative effect. As a result, it’s best to avoid most fast foods and most prepackaged products. Many packaged foods contain AGEs (advanced glycation end-products), which can be damaging to the body. Studies have found they can increase the risk of people developing Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.
It’s important to avoid eating any foods that raise blood sugar levels rapidly. These include fizzy drinks, jellies, candy, ready meals, and foods containing white flour, such as cookies, rolls, and baguettes.
Since the body’s lymphatic system directly absorbs fat, it’s important to reduce your fat intake from unhealthy sources. You should avoid sunflower oil, margarine, and baked goods, as well as sausages and cheese products. You should only consume salt in moderation. This is because salt can trap water inside the tissues.
Which Foods to Eat before Lipedema Liposuction
Although there are many foods to avoid before having liposuction, there are many more to include in your diet.
Since insulin can make fat grow, it’s important to eat plenty of low glycemic index foods. These include plenty of fresh vegetables. Vegetables contain enzymes that the body’s lymphatic system absorbs and uses to clean out stagnant proteins. Choosing fresh and colorful vegetables and fruits provides your body with the essential substances it needs. You should eat at least three vegetable portions and two fruit portions each day. It’s best to eat more vegetables than fruit since they don’t affect your blood sugar level. They also help you to feel full for longer.
Although fats sound like they’ll be bad for you, in fact, not all fats are equal. Some are very healthy, and you should consume them regularly. Seeds, linseed oil, nuts, and avocados all contain vital, healthy fats.
It’s very important to stay well-hydrated at all times, too. Consume a minimum of 2 liters of liquid every day. Unsweetened tea or water are the best choices. You should avoid juices, sugary soft drinks, and alcohol.
Other Healthy Advice When Preparing for Lipedema Lipo
Healthy eating is only part of preparing for lipedema liposuction. You should also try to exercise as much as possible. Although you may find your mobility restricted because of your condition, it’s important to move every day.
It’s advisable to take breaks between your meals to ensure that your body uses all the energy it has consumed. Eating meals too close together can cause the body to store extra energy in the form of fatty deposits. Since the very act of eating generates inflammation, it’s important to give your gut a rest. Try to eat a liquid-type diet a couple of days each week. Vegetable stews, soups, smoothies, fruit juices, and protein shakes are all good choices.
Seeking Professional Help
If you need help from a lipedema specialist in Tampa, look no further than the Artlipo team. We are experts in the field and can offer you all the advice you need.
Dr. Thomas Su, is the owner and cosmetic surgeon of Artistic Lipo. He has led our full-time clinic specializing in awake-only liposuction since 2007. Dr. Su began his medical career in internal medicine, practicing that until 2005, when he began to provide a full spectrum of non-invasive cosmetic procedures.
