Lipoma is benign growth of fatty tissue under the skin. They form between the skin and underlying muscle and are made up of fat cells. They are harmless as the growth only occurs in a local area and usually does not spread to other body parts. They can be either single or multiple in number.
They are small, soft mobile lumps formed under the skin with a doughy feel and normal overlying skin. They are painless and do not grow in size. The etiology of lipoma is not clear but, it is known to run in families, i.e. it is hereditary. Middle aged people in the age group of 40-60 are more prone to lipomas. It is also more common in alcoholic men.
What Lifestyle Changes are Recommended for Lipoma?
Evidence indicates that lifestyle affects the occurrence of lipomas. A healthy lifestyle can minimize the appearance of lipoma as well as prevent their growth. A healthy diet and physical exercise reduce risk of formation by increasing circulation of blood and preventing fatty deposits under the skin that might lead to lipoma.
First and foremost a healthy diet is very necessary to reduce and prevent lipoma. Lipoma occurs as result of deposition of fat cells that grow under the skin. In order to prevent formation of fatty growth under the skin a fatty diet must be restricted. These include dairy and dairy products such as milk, cheese, butter etc. that leads to fat storage under the skin. Foods that are rich in sugars should also be avoided because they add more fat to your body. They are chocolates, junk foods, and artificial sweeteners all add up to fat storage. Sugars that circulate in blood are ultimately converted to fat that is stored under the skin. When these cells start growing due to any reason they form a growth under the skin known as lipoma.
Organic diet is also beneficial for lipoma as they contain less preservatives and additives in them, which is helpful in detoxification of the liver. Limiting the consumption of processed and packaged foods in your diet helps in reduction of toxin buildup in the body and in turn assists liver in removing toxins from the fatty tissues and cells in the body.
A healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables also help in reduction of toxins in the body. They are rich in antioxidants, which buildup the immune system and flush toxins out of body. Brightly colored fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, plums, green leafy vegetables, squash, and bell peppers are also rich in minerals and vitamins with abundant antioxidants. Freshly prepared juices of fruits and vegetables also cleanse the circulatory system and get rid of toxins and fats.
Consumption of fish is healthier and a reduction in red meat also prevents accumulation of fat under the skin especially in cases of lipoma. Fish are rich in omega 3 fatty acids and vitamins that help in reducing inflammation and limit the growth of fatty tissues. Salmon and tuna fish are excellent sources of omega 3 fatty acids as well as vitamins and minerals. In place of red meat you can consume chicken, tofu and beans that are a healthier option which also provides with high levels of proteins.
Consuming more water is important to flush out toxins from the fatty cells. The recurrence of lipoma is greatly reduced by healthy lifestyle. Abstinence from alcohol is also important as excess alcohol might lead to fatty liver, which greatly affects the ability of the liver to flush toxins from the body and hence leads to fat deposition.
Lastly a sedentary lifestyle also leads to buildup of fat in the body so a healthier approach is to work out and remain active. Regular exercise not only keeps fat under control, it also improves the circulatory system and prevents many life threatening diseases related to heart.
Prognosis of Lipoma
With a healthy lifestyle and proper care lipoma can be controlled without further complications and a person can lead a long and healthy life.