Effect of a ketogenic diet on pain and quality of life in patients with lipedema: The LIPODIET pilot study

Background Lipedema is an underdiagnosed condition in women, characterized by a symmetrical increase in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) in the lower extremities, sparing the trunk. The lipedema SAT has been found to be resistant to diet, exercise and bariatric surgery, in regard to both weight loss (WL) and symptom relief. Current experience indicates that a low carbohydrate and high fat (LCHF-diet) might have a beneficial effect on weight and symptom management in lipedema. Objective To assess the impact of an eucaloric low carbohydrate, high fat (LCHF)-diet on pain and quality of life (QoL) in patients with lipedema. Methods Women diagnosed with lipedema, including all types and stages affecting the legs, (age 18-75 years, BMI 30-45 kg/m2) underwent 7 weeks (wk) of LCHF-diet and, thereafter 6 wk of a diet following the Nordic nutrition recommendations. Pain (visual analog scale) and QoL (questionnaire for lymphedema of the limbs), weight and body composition were measured at baseline, wk 7 and 13. Results Nine women (BMI: 36.7±4.5kg/m2 and age: 46.9±7 years) were recruited. The LCHF diet induced a significant WL -4.6±0.7 kg (-4.5±2.4%), P