A lipoma is a slow-growing, soft tumor caused by fat deposits under your skin. While some lipomas may only be a cosmetic issue, others can be painful. Lipomas are typically treated by surgery, if they are removed at all. But before considering surgical removal, some people may turn to natural remedies.
Understanding Lipomas
Lipomas are soft, benign tumors that are often painless and made up of soft or fatty tissue. They're a common skin issue that may be viewed as cosmetic. Lipomas (skin lumps) are slow-growing, non-cancerous, fatty bulges that form underneath the skin. Lipomas are common and rarely harmful. One in every thousand people develop lipomas in their lifetime. They typically do not require treatment, but if they bother an individual, are painful, or are growing again, an individual should treat them.
What Are Lipomas?
A lipoma is a small round or oval lump of fatty tissue that forms just under your skin. They are usually smaller than two inches in diameter. These fatty growths move easily and usually feel soft or rubbery to the touch. Lipomas can appear anywhere on your body. They are most common on the trunk, back, arms, shoulders, and neck and very rarely form on muscles, internal organs, or the brain.
Lipomas are soft tissue growths that are not cancerous (benign). They usually grow very slowly and are limited to their own encapsulated area. While they don’t usually cause pain, lipomas can cause discomfort if they push on a joint, nerve, or tendon.
While most lipomas are round or oval and symmetrical in shape, pleomorphic lipomas have fat cells of different sizes and shapes. For example, spindle cells found in some lipomas are fat cells that are longer than they are wide.
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Depending on the specific makeup of the tissue within a lipoma, they can be classified into different types. Basic conventional lipomas are made up of white fat cells that store energy, while Hhbernomas contain brown fat that generates heat and helps to regulate body temperature. An angiolipoma contains fat and blood vessels and is often painful. Fibrolipomas contain fibrous tissue in addition to fat. Lipomas that produce blood cells are called myelolipomas.
Risk Factors
Lipomas can develop at any age, but most people have them between 40 to 60. Lipomas affects all genders, but men are slightly more susceptible to lipomas than women. Some people may inherit the tendency to develop lipomas. They may run in families. Obesity or excessive weight may increase the risk of developing lipomas. Soft tissue trauma may occur from a sprain, an accident or overuse of muscles. If you have a rubbery lump under your skin that moves easily, it may be a lipoma. Lipomas are common benign lumps of fatty tissue. Almost 1 out of every 1,000 people will develop a lipoma. They most commonly appear between the ages of 40 and 60 but can appear at any age and are slightly more common in women.
In addition to genetic factors, lipomas are associated with imbalances in blood sugar and insulin function. An integrative functional medicine approach may explore underlying metabolic factors and consider diet, supplementation, and integrative therapies to support weight and metabolism, potentially reducing the risk of lipomas forming.
What Are The Possible Causes of Lipomas?
Lipomas seem to have a genetic predisposition and are more common in people who have family members who develop them. These growths are also more common in those with obesity, alcohol use, metabolic liver conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and glucose intolerance, which occurs with metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. They may sometimes appear after an injury or blunt tissue trauma.
Several genetic conditions involve the formation of multiple lipomas. For example, hereditary multiple lipomatosis or familial multiple lipomatosis is a rare, benign, genetic skin disorder that causes many painless lipomas all over the body. Dercum’s disease (adiposis dolorosa or Anders’ syndrome) is another rare condition that causes painful lipomas to grow on the arms, legs, and trunk. Similarly, Gardner syndrome is a variant of familial adenomatous polyposis that involves the formation of lipomas and many adenomatous intestinal polyps that have a high potential for malignancy. Madelung’s disease, or multiple symmetric lipomatosis, causes many painless, non-encapsulated, symmetric fatty deposits in the neck, torso, breasts, abdomen, and upper and lower limbs, especially in genetically susceptible men who chronically consume excessive alcohol.
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Functional Medicine Labs to Test for Root Cause of Lipomas
Functional medicine laboratory testing can help to assess factors contributing to lipoma formation and evaluate for the presence of accompanying health issues.
Blood Sugar Balance
Since issues with blood sugar regulation and insulin function can increase the risk of obesity and lipomas, parameters of blood sugar balance can be evaluated with functional medicine testing. A fasting glucose test can measure the level of glucose in the blood when you have not eaten for several hours, usually after an overnight fast. In addition, measuring fasting insulin and C-peptide, a marker that the body is producing insulin, can evaluate if there is too much insulin in the blood due to issues like insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic Function & Toxicity
Another way to evaluate these metabolic markers of glucose balance and insulin function in one test is with the Metabolomic Profile. To gain additional insights into cellular health, toxicity, and metabolism, the NutrEval FMV can be used.
Liver Function Testing
Metabolic imbalances, including being overweight and having blood sugar issues, may increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and lipomas. A good way to assess liver function is with a Hepatic Function Panel that measures liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase), proteins, and bilirubin. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is another enzyme primarily made in the liver and can show that the body is trying to generate greater levels of glutathione to deal with detoxification or oxidative stress. These tests can help assess if liver function is contributing to the formation of lipomas.
Additional Labs To Test
While lipomas are usually easily diagnosed by physical examination, a skin biopsy is sometimes taken to look at the tissue under a microscope to confirm that the growth is not cancerous, such as a liposarcoma.
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Imaging studies like ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging scan, or computed tomography scan may also be used to evaluate the location of the growth and differentiate a lipoma from a cyst or other type of tumor.
Conventional Treatment for Lipomas
The majority of lipomas do not need any treatment. If a lipoma is causing discomfort or other issues, surgical removal may be done traditionally or with liposuction to remove fatty tissue from the growth using a long, thin needle.
Holistic Treatment for Lipomas
An integrative dermatology approach to lipomas aims to uncover and address underlying contributing factors. Diet, lifestyle, supplements, and integrative therapies can be used to support metabolic factors, blood sugar, and insulin levels to help the body regulate fat normally and maintain a healthy weight.
Nutritional Approaches for Lipoma Management
A whole foods-focused, balanced diet can help keep blood sugar and lipid metabolism balanced. A diet rich in fiber, vegetables, legumes, and other high-quality proteins like wild fish and grass-fed meats can help you maintain a balanced weight and fat distribution, support insulin function, improve markers of fat and sugar metabolism, and support a healthy inflammatory response. This approach reduces the consumption of processed simple sugars and carbohydrates and focuses instead on high-fiber foods and complex carbohydrates to keep blood sugars balanced.
A Mediterranean diet is one way of eating in this manner. This dietary approach emphasizes citrus fruits, vegetables, legumes, and complex carbohydrates with moderate fish and olive oil and has been shown to support healthy blood sugar, insulin, and cholesterol levels. This way of eating has wide-reaching benefits throughout the body, including supporting some of the factors associated with lipoma formation.
In addition to simple sugars and carbohydrates, reducing alcohol and trans fats in your diet may support liver health and overall metabolic function. Trans fats are unsaturated fatty acids with at least one double bond in the trans configuration that are found in processed foods like bakery goods. Consuming trans fats can result in metabolic changes that may increase the risk of cardiovascular issues, abdominal obesity, and type 2 diabetes, which can be associated with lipoma formation.
Foods to Include in a Lipoma Diet Chart
| Food Group | Examples | Why It's Good for Lipomas |
|---|---|---|
| Fruits | Berries, apples, oranges, pomegranate | Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory |
| Vegetables | Leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, spinach | Fiber, vitamins, detox support |
| Healthy Fats | Olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds, flaxseed | Omega-3s fight inflammation |
| Lean Protein | Fish, chicken, legumes, tofu | Supports tissue repair |
| Whole Grains | Quinoa, brown rice, oats | Fiber for healthy digestion |
| Herbs/Spices | Turmeric, ginger, garlic, parsley | Natural anti-inflammatory properties |
| Water | Flushes toxins and supports metabolism |
Foods to Avoid or Limit
| Food Group | Examples | Why to Avoid for Lipomas |
|---|---|---|
| Trans Fats | Fried foods, margarine, chips | Increase inflammation |
| Refined Sugars | Sweets, soda, white bread | Promote fat storage, inflammation |
| Processed Meats | Sausages, bacon, deli meats | High in saturated fats, additives |
| Full-Fat Dairy | Cheese, cream, butter | Can contribute to fat accumulation |
| Alcohol | Beer, spirits, excessive wine | Overloads liver, increases toxins |
| Excessive Salt | Salty snacks, canned soups | Fluid retention, high blood pressure |
Sample Lipoma Diet Chart (With Table)
Here’s a sample one-day meal plan to inspire your journey to better health. Adjust servings and choices to your personal preferences and nutritional needs.
| Meal | Food Choices | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | Oatmeal with blueberries & flaxseed; green tea | Fiber, antioxidants, omega-3 |
| Snack | Apple slices with almond butter | Healthy fats, vitamins |
| Lunch | Grilled salmon with quinoa & steamed broccoli | Omega-3, protein, fiber |
| Snack | Carrot & cucumber sticks with hummus | Fiber, plant protein |
| Dinner | Stir-fried tofu with mixed greens & brown rice | Plant protein, antioxidants |
| Drinks | Water, herbal tea | Hydration, detox support |
Use olive oil or avocado oil for cooking. Flavor meals with turmeric and ginger for extra anti-inflammatory power. Limit processed foods and cook from scratch whenever possible.
Why Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods?
Chronic, low-level inflammation is linked to the development of many diseases, including abnormal fat cell growth. By prioritizing anti-inflammatory foods, you can help your body maintain a healthy balance and potentially reduce the risk of new lipomas.
Top Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Lipoma Diets
- Turmeric (curcumin compound)
- Ginger
- Fatty fish (salmon, sardines)
- Leafy greens (kale, spinach)
- Berries (blueberries, raspberries)
- Walnuts, chia, flaxseeds
- Garlic and onions
Foods That May Worsen Lipomas
Although there’s no guaranteed way to prevent lipomas, avoiding these foods helps support overall fat metabolism and reduces unnecessary strain on your liver and detox systems:
- Fried, greasy foods
- White bread, pastries, and sugar-sweetened beverages
- Processed meats high in preservatives
- Excess alcohol
- Artificial additives and colors
Lipoma and Detoxification
The liver plays a central role in breaking down fats and toxins. Supporting your liver with a clean, plant-rich diet may help your body process fats more efficiently and reduce the load that can contribute to abnormal fat storage.
Good for Liver Health:
- Leafy greens
- Citrus fruits
- Beets
- Garlic
- Green tea
Lipoma Diet Chart: Key Nutrients Explained
| Nutrient | Food Sources | Role in Lipoma Management |
|---|---|---|
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Salmon, flaxseed, walnuts | Reduce inflammation |
| Vitamin C | Oranges, strawberries, bell pepper | Antioxidant, supports tissue repair |
| Vitamin E | Almonds, sunflower seeds | Protects cell membranes |
| Polyphenols | Berries, green tea, dark chocolate | Antioxidants, anti-inflammatory |
| Fiber | Whole grains, beans, vegetables | Helps remove toxins |
Herbal Remedies for Lipomas
In addition to an anti-inflammatory diet that reduces inflammatory foods, simple sugars, alcohol, and trans-fats, targeted herbal remedies and supplements may help support metabolic parameters.
Berberine
Berberine is derived from the Chinese medicinal plant Coptis chinensis and is used for its ability to support glucose and cholesterol levels, assist with weight management, and support insulin and blood sugar balance. These impacts and its ability to support lipid metabolism in several ways make it a promising approach for supporting healthy fat distribution.
Phosphatidylcholine
Phosphatidylcholine is a fat found in cell membranes. It has been studied as a treatment for reducing lipomas when injected into the fatty growths. Studies show that phosphatidylcholine may help manage fat cells within fat and muscle tissues, making it a useful consideration for lipoma management.
Ayurvedic Treatments for Lipomas
In Ayurveda, small tumors like lipomas are known as granthi (knots). According to a 2016 case study, Ayurvedic recommendations for treatment include: herbal medications or ointments and excision.
One of the treatments used in Ayurveda is the herbal remedy Triphala, a combination of: Indian gooseberry, black myrobalan, and belleric myrobalan. This compound is known to have fat-reducing properties and has been found in a 2012 animal study to reduce fat and cholesterol levels. Since lipomas are believed to form as a result of an overgrowth of fat cells, this treatment and similar compounds used in Ayurvedic medicine seek to address the cause of these tumors. However, it should be noted that the fat cells that make up lipomas are a different type of fat cells unaffected by weight loss, fat reduction, or lower cholesterol levels.
Integrative Medicine and Lifestyle Changes for Lipoma Relief
Integrative medicine approaches can be added to nutrition and supplements to help support healthy fat distribution.
Maintain an Optimal Weight
There is evidence that lipoma formation is associated with obesity. Lipomas tend to increase in size when body weight is gained, so maintaining a healthy body weight can support overall health. Maintaining an optimal weight also helps control blood sugar balance and related consequences like metabolic syndrome and fatty liver health.
High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an effective, noninvasive alternative treatment modality for managing lipoma size.
Light Therapy
Studies show that laser light therapy using a subcutaneous, micro-pulsed 1,444 nm wavelength Nd:YAG laser procedure may help manage lipomas without causing serious adverse effects.
Lifestyle Tips for Lipoma Management
While diet is crucial, a holistic approach offers the best results for managing lipomas and supporting overall health:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body fat isn’t the cause, but obesity can worsen overall health and increase stress on your body.
- Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise supports healthy fat metabolism and reduces inflammation.
- Avoid Smoking and Excess Alcohol: Both increase toxins and oxidative stress, which may contribute to abnormal fat cell growth.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress increases inflammation; try yoga, meditation, or mindful walking.
- Monitor for Changes: New, growing, or painful lumps should always be checked by a healthcare professional.
Risks to Note
While there may not be recommendations against using Ayruvedic treatments in the United States, they are suggested only as a complementary therapy to standard care. Some concerns with Ayurveda include: risk of delaying urgent medical treatment, toxicity of certain medication compounds, and lack of regulation on providers and practices.
If you’re interested in trying Ayurveda as a complementary therapy, be sure to tell a healthcare professional exactly what therapies you are using.
While lipomas are often painless, harmless growths, this isn’t always the case. It can be difficult to accurately diagnose a growth under your skin without removing it for inspection - or at least taking a biopsy. A biopsy is a procedure where a healthcare professional removes a piece of tissue and sends it to a lab to be examined.
There’s a risk that what you think is a harmless lipoma could actually be a more serious growth or tumor.
You should seek medical care as soon as possible if your growth: has color changes in the skin around it, becomes warm or hot, changes in size, changes in color, increases in density or hardness, and causes increased pain.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Lipomas
While most lipomas are harmless, certain situations warrant medical evaluation:
- The lump is painful or tender
- It's growing rapidly
- It's larger than 5 cm (about 2 inches)
- It's hard or immobile
- It's causing functional problems or significant cosmetic concerns
- You're unsure if the growth is actually a lipoma