Unveiling the Genetic Basis of Lipedema: A Breakthrough in Early Diagnosis and Intervention

In this episode, we feature an excerpt from a presentation Siobhan Huggins and I delivered at the Keto Chow Meat Up in Draper, UT, on July 15, 2023. Keto Chow, a proud sponsor of several Lipedema Simplified events, has become a favorite of ours. In this clip, Siobhan shares insights from recent studies that explore the effectiveness of a ketogenic diet in managing lipedema symptoms. Tune in to hear the latest research on how keto could impact those living with lipedema.

In today’s episode, we explore a fascinating study titled Lipedema Research—Quo Vadis? published in the Journal of Personalized Medicine in December 2022. Conducted by researchers from Austria and Germany, this literature review delves into the last few decades of lipedema research, shedding light on key findings and the future direction of studies in this field. Join us as we discuss the important insights from this pivotal work.

Today, I’d like to share with you about a research conducted by a group in Australia called A Family-Based Study of Inherited Genetic Risk in Lipedema published in the peer-reviewed journal Lymphatic Research & Biology in February 2024.The authors wanted to learn more about the genetic predisposition toward lipedema among affected patients compared to their unaffected family members.The authors conclude that lipedema is not caused by a single genetic mutation but a complex interaction of several possible genes and environmental factors.

In this episode, we share an excerpt from Cameron Ayala's presentation at the Ketogenic Revolution for Lipedema & Lymphedema virtual event held from April 29 to May 1, 2022. Cameron, a 33-year-old lymphedema patient and advocate from Houston, TX, became a public voice for lymphatic diseases after joining the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN) in 2019. Using his platform from reality TV shows like The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise, Cam has dedicated his life to raising awareness for lymphedema, lipedema, and other lymphatic disorders. In this excerpt, Cam discusses his personal experience experimenting with the Carnivore diet.

In today’s episode, we share an insightful excerpt from Siobhan Huggins' presentation at our Heart 2 Heart virtual event held on March 31, and April 1-2, 2023. Siobhan, a Research Specialist at the Lipedema Project and a fellow lipedema patient, has been using the ketogenic diet for several years to manage her symptoms. In this clip, she defines the ketogenic diet, highlights important precautions, and explains how even a slow start can bring lasting benefits.

In this episode, I’m excited to share an excerpt from a presentation by Dr. Catherine Seo during our Heart 2 Heart virtual event held on March 31 and April 1-2, 2023. Catherine is the Founder & CEO of Lipedema Simplified and The Lipedema Project, course director for MasterClass: Beyond Lipedema, and a psychology professor. She’s also the producer and director of the documentary The Disease They Call FAT and co-author of the book Lipedema: The Disease They Call FAT: An Overview for Clinicians. In this excerpt, she emphasizes the incredible power of community and how collaborative efforts can harness collective intelligence, much like the mesmerizing flight patterns of starlings. Join me as we explore the strength that comes from working together toward a common goal.

In this episode, I’ll discuss a groundbreaking paper led by Gunther Felmerer and a team of researchers from Germany, Finland, and Switzerland. The study, titled "Increased Levels of VEGF-C and Macrophage Infiltration in Lipedema Patients Without Changes in Lymphatic Vascular Morphology," was published in Scientific Reports in July 2020. This research investigates the tissue and lymphatic involvement in lipedema, shedding light on the complexities of the condition. Join me as we explore how these findings contribute to our understanding of lipedema.

In today's episode, I’m sharing an inspiring excerpt from Bill Repicci's presentation at our Heart 2 Heart virtual event, held on March 31, and April 1-2, 2023. Bill Repicci, President & CEO of the Lymphatic Education & Research Network (LE&RN), discusses the emotional toll of lymphatic diseases and the transformative power of self-advocacy.

In this episode, I’ll explore a 2022 review paper authored by leading researchers from Texas A&M and Vanderbilt Universities, including experts like Rachelle Crescenzi and Joseph Rutkowski. Published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, the paper, "Current Mechanistic Understandings of Lymphedema and Lipedema: Tales of Fluid, Fat, and Fibrosis," dives into the complex mechanisms behind these conditions. Join me as we discuss the latest insights into the interactions between fluid, fat, and fibrosis and their implications for understanding lymphedema and lipedema.

In this episode, I’ll share insights from a significant study conducted by researchers from Australia and the Netherlands, titled "Stages of Lipedema: Experiences of Physical and Mental Health and Health Care," published in Quality of Life Research in August 2022. This research aims to explore and articulate the physical and mental health experiences of individuals living with lipedema across its various stages. Join me as we dive into the findings and their implications for the lipedema community.