Scientists have not figured out exactly why fibroids occur, the overproduction of estrogen is thought to play a role. Some fibroids treatment include reduction of estrogen, but you may be unknowingly receiving estrogen from the foods you eat. For example, some produce is sprayed with environmental estrogens, like xenoestrogens; which is why eating organic fruits and vegetables is usually a better option. Eating foods that help decrease the production of estrogen and that do not contain any estrogen may help by limiting the size of fibroids, preventing further growth and decreasing symptoms. Sometimes, the only way to treat uterine fibroids is with medicine or surgery. But some people may improve their symptoms simply by making changes in their diet, exercise, and stress management routines.
Foods To Focus to Fight Fibroids
Consider adding these foods to your anti-estrogen diet plan:
Cruciferous vegetables help the liver detox. Broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, kale, turnips, watercress, radish and arugula are all great choices. Avoid overcooking these vegetables so that they retain most of their nutrients.
● Foods to help detoxify your body are also recommended. Garlic, carrots, beets and drinking plenty of water will help with detoxification.
● Foods that contain carotenes should be added to your diet for fibroids. Apricots, sweet potato, cantaloupe, carrots, pumpkin and spinach are all sufficient sources.
● Eat foods containing vitamin E, like almonds, wheat germ, hazelnuts and cod liver oil.
● Natural anti-inflammatory foods can help as well. Pineapple and fresh rosemary have been shown to help decrease inflammation.
● An antioxidant called polyphenol, which is found in green tea, can help to counteract the effects of estrogen.
● Consider taking a multivitamin every day. Look for one that has 100% daily value for vitamins: B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B12 and B6. Vitamins C, D, E and folic acid should also be included, as well as a max of 15,000 IUs of beta-carotene (vitamin A).
Foods To Avoid For Fibroids
These foods should be eliminated from your diet to help regulate estrogen levels in your body:
If possible, any foods that increase estrogen levels in your body should be avoided. Red meat, alcohol, animal fats, cheese, cream, butter, ice cream and chocolate have all been shown to raise levels of estrogen. The fat from turkey and chicken should also be trimmed before cooking.
● Don’t eat a diet full of processed foods, red meats, and high-fat dairy. Studies show that eating these foods can make your fibroids worse.
● Don’t overdo it on the sugar. A study found that eating a high-sugar diet could be linked to a higher risk of fibroids. Artificial sweeteners should also be eliminated; remember to read the ingredient list on the food label.
● Soya products have been shown to increase estrogen levels, so cut these out as well.
● Avoid storing food in plastic containers. Studies have shown that plastic can leech into the food from the containers, which will influence estrogen levels in your body when consumed.
Keep an eye on your blood pressure. Researchers have shown a strong link between fibroids and high blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about how to manage your blood pressure, either with diet, lifestyle, or medication.
Don’t skip your workouts. One study found that women who exercised the most (about 7 hours per week of activities like running, dancing, or walking) had the lowest chance of developing fibroids. Exercise can also help keep your blood pressure down.
Don’t smoke. Experts believe that smoking can increase your period pain because it reduces the amount of oxygen that gets to your pelvic region.
Manage your stress level. While researchers are still examining the impact of stress on fibroids, some studies suggest the two may be linked. Try relaxation techniques like yoga, massage, and tai chi to help manage your stress. Some women find that alternative therapies like acupuncture can help relieve their period pain, too.
Living with fibroids can be uncomfortable and painful. Doing everything you can at home to benefit your body in the fight against fibroids, can help improve your biological system and decrease the symptoms of fibroids that you experience. Make sure to speak with you doctor about managing your fibroids and about any drastic dietary changes. Adding and eliminating certain foods to help regulate levels of estrogen in your body may assist in managing fibroids until you are able to undergo a permanent solution.
*Please note: Lowering estrogen levels solely through diet does not and will not cure a fibroid condition.
Source: Fibroid Treatment Collective