In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, hosts an enlightening discussion with Dr. Karen Herbst, a leading expert on lipedema and other adipose connective tissue diseases. Dr. Herbst shares her extensive knowledge on the complexities of lipedema, Dercum's disease, and their connection to connective tissue disorders, inflammation, and hormonal factors. Learn about the latest research, diagnostic challenges, and effective treatments, including diet, supplements, and surgery. Don't miss the valuable insights and practical advice shared in this episode. Takeaways: Lipedema Misdiagnosis: Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as regular obesity or confused with lymphedema, highlighting the need for better awareness and diagnostic criteria. Connection to Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can trigger or worsen lipedema due to increased fat and hormonal fluctuations. Inflammation and Fibrosis: Inflammation in lipedema leads to fibrosis, making the tissue nodular and tender, and potentially contributing to the chronic pain experienced by patients. Diet and Supplements: Anti-inflammatory diets, intermittent fasting, and certain supplements like berberine and CoQ10 can help manage lipedema symptoms by reducing inflammation and supporting metabolic health. Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments: While liposuction can significantly improve symptoms, non-surgical treatments such as compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and whole-body vibration are also beneficial in managing lipedema. Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.   This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/    Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.🎧 Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.        Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: [email protected] YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓 Learn about Dr. Karen Herbst: Instagram: @advancedlipedematreatment Tik Tok: @alt.program Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices