Uterine fibroids, also called myomas, are noncancerous growths of the uterus. They occur in women of all races and backgrounds, but are more common in women of African or Caribbean descent. Primarily diagnosed when a woman is in her 30s or 40s, fibroids arise from the smooth muscle and connective tissue of the uterine muscle itself. Sometimes causing pain, they can form on the inside or outside of the uterus, above, below or on the side of it. Dr. Christiane Northrop says, "Lifestyle modifications are likely to have an impact because fibroids are very sensitive to changes in hormone levels in the body. Your hormones can be influenced by everything from dietary modifications to changes in your thoughts and emotions."
Step 1
Eat a diet high in protein and healthy fats and low in high-glycemic carbohydrates, such as sugar and starch. White foods like sugar and starch increase insulin, which changes the way estrogen is processed in your body. This causes increased inflammation.
Step 2
Eat soy and flax. They help the body produce smaller amounts of unhealthy estrogens. Flaxseed is high in both fiber and omega-3 fats, which help reduce inflammation and tumor growth throughout the body and rid the body of toxins, including excess estrogen.
Step 3
Use herbs to help balance estrogen levels naturally. These include chasteberry, dong quai and black cohosh and can be ingested as a tea, tincture, capsule or pill.
Tips and Warnings
- Buy organic foods and produce. They contain minimal or no harmful chemicals. Always use wellness products as recommended by your practitioner or the product maker. Other effective alternatives to assist shrinking fibroids include weight loss, aerobic exercise, reflexology, meditation, aromatherapy, castor oil packs, homeopathic medicine and massage.
- There is no association with an increased risk of uterine cancer, but consult with a qualified gynecologist for a thorough pelvic examination. According to MayoClinic.com, "Research indicates that pregnant women with fibroids are at slightly increased risk of miscarriage, premature labor and delivery, abnormal fetal position and separation of the placenta from the uterine wall." Tell your health-care practitioner if you are pregnant and experiencing fibroids. Consult with a nutritionist for appropriate dietary support. Consult with a herbal care practitioner for more information and proper use of herbs.
Member Comments