At Lipedema Surgical Solutions, we understand that managing lipedema requires a multifaceted approach. In addition to medical treatments, a combination of supplements and vitamins can be powerful allies in slowing the progression of lipedema and reducing the discomfort that comes with swelling and inflammation. While no supplement can fully replace proper medical care, they can provide a complementary tool in managing your symptoms. One such tool to help fight against edema is ensuring a regular and robust vitamin supplement. These vitamins and supplements for lipedema can be found at your local drugstore and are an inexpensive way to help.
Lipedema patients are frequently found to have low levels of Vitamin D, often requiring higher-than-normal doses to reach optimal levels. Since Vitamin D3 is fat-soluble, it can become sequestered in fat cells, making it harder to reach the recommended range. We suggest checking your Vitamin D3 levels with your physician and supplementing as needed to bring them up to 30-50 ng/mL. Vitamin D3 supports immune system function and plays a critical role in maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and the nervous system.
Selenium is a trace mineral that supports metabolism and has been known to reduce painful swelling common with lipedema. You don’t need to look far to find this helpful supplement—just two Brazil nuts a day are enough to meet your Selenium needs! Including this small but powerful dietary change could help you manage swelling and inflammation naturally.
Diosmin is a bioflavonoid derived from citrus fruits and is perhaps one of the most effective supplements for lipedema. It’s known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lymph-tonic properties, which can reduce the heaviness and swelling in the legs. Not all diosmin supplements are created equal, however. The most effective formulas use a purified frozen fraction (MPFF), which you can find in vein and lymph support formulas like Vein Formula. Diosmin is a vital part of managing lipedema non-surgically, helping reduce inflammation, increase lymphatic flow, and ease tenderness.
In the U.S., diosmin is available as a prescription under the name Vasculera, or over-the-counter from reputable suppliers. We recommend Vein Formula, which can be ordered online for reliable quality.
In a recent case study, Diosmin had positive results when used in combination with other supplements, lipedema diet, compression, and other anti-inflammatory measures to non-surgically manage lipedema. Based on these studies, and my experience prescribing Diosmin to patients, I recommend Diosmin as part of an overall conservative management treatment plan for lipedema and lymphedema.
In the United States, Diosmin is sold under the brand name Vasculera, which is available in pharmacies by prescription from a physician. Vasculera is approved by the FDA as a medical food.
Diosmin is also available as a supplement without a prescription. We recommend Vein Formula, as we trust its formulation. Be sure to order any supplements for lipedema from a reputable website for the best safety and quality. Link https://vitasupportmd.com/products/vein-formula-1000
Although best known for treating the common cold, Guaifenesin (often branded as Mucinex) has shown potential benefits for lipedema patients by helping reduce swelling and pain. While there are no formal studies on its effectiveness for lipedema, anecdotal reports from patients and clinicians suggest that Guaifenesin may provide relief. In our limited clinical experience, about 20 – 30 % of lipedema patients report reduced pain and/or swelling when taking this medication. Plus, there are reports of Guaifenisn being used for pain relief to treat other diseases. It is thought to work by thinning out extracellular proteins or acting as a muscle relaxant, reducing inflammation and pain.
We recommend trying Guaifenesin at 600 mg twice daily (up to 2,400 mg per day) for two weeks to assess its impact on your symptoms, alongside other treatments like compression and a lipedema-friendly diet. Always consult with your physician before starting new medications, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
Guaifenesin has shown modest but significant analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects in neck and back pain and some other conditions. It is thought guaifenesin may be working as a muscle relaxant effect that occurs in these conditions. Guaifenesin may help pain or it may work as an expectorant in lipedema tissue and thin out extracellular proteins. However, there are no studies to support these theories in lipedema.
Guaifenesin is approved for safe use at 600 mg twice a day (or 1,200 mg twice a day) for no more than 2,400 mg per day. Studies in the use of Mucinex for other medical conditions report it takes a least a week to see effects. I recommend lipedema suffers try this medication for two weeks to see if they notice any positive changes in addition to their consistent treatment plans including compression, supplements, and a healthy lipedema diet as prescribed. May not be suitable for people with a persistent cough due to asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or smoking, or who have a cough that is producing excessive amounts of phlegm. Talk with your doctor first before using Mucinex if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
While no supplement can replace medical care, incorporating the right vitamins and supplements can be a cost-effective and impactful part of your lipedema management plan. Alongside treatments like compression, diet, and surgery, these supplements offer another way to support your body’s fight against the progression of lipedema.
To learn more about how supplements can support your lipedema treatment or to explore non-surgical options, contact Lipedema Surgical Solutions today. Together, we can create a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and helps you take control of your health.
