Healthy Foods & Fibroids

Fibroids are the most common tumors in the female reproductive system, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, affecting 20 to 40 percent of women age over age 34. They are not cancerous and can exist without causing notable symptoms. In some cases, they trigger urinary problems, constipation, long or heavy menstruation and pain. If your symptoms are severe, your doctor may suggest surgery. Otherwise, medications and lifestyle changes, including a healthy diet, may reduce your symptoms.

Function

Although dietary changes are not known to cause or remove fibroids, they may help improve your hormone levels, leading to reduced symptoms. Diet changes may supplement medications or surgery or serve as your first course of action if you prefer a more natural treatment approach. Women's health expert Christiane Northrup, M.D., recommends a diet rich in protein, healthy fats and low-glycemic carbohydrates, which have a mild impact on your blood sugar, for reduced inflammation and improved estrogen levels. A nutritious diet may also help lower your risk for developing fibroid problems in the first place.

Optimum Foods

Coldwater fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, trout, halibut and mackerel, provide rich amounts of protein and omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats with anti-inflammatory properties. Other nutritious protein sources include egg whites, tofu, low-fat dairy products, skinless white-meat poultry and legumes, such as lentils and beans. Gradually increasing your fiber intake to 25 g per day can improve your blood sugar and hormonal balance, according to an "Empower Magazine" article published in Aug. 2010. A 1-cup serving of cooked beans or lentils provides 15 to 16 g of fiber. Raspberries, peas and cooked whole wheat spaghetti provide 6 to 8 g per cup. Other fiber-rich foods include artichokes, pears, broccoli and kale. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables and nuts are also low-glycemic. In addition to cold-water fish, consume nuts, seeds, avocados and vegetable oils for healthy fats.

Foods to Avoid

"White" foods, such as refined grains and sugar, increase the production of insulin in your body, which influences the way it uses estrogen, according to Northrup. This leads to a heightened risk for inflammation and fibroid symptoms. Common sources of refined grains include white bread, instant rice, enriched pasta, pretzels and buttermilk pancakes. To lower your sugar intake, cut back on regular soft drinks, sweetened coffee and tea, candy, milk chocolate, jellies, frozen desserts and commercially-prepared cookies, cakes, pastries and pies. Limiting animal fat sources, such as butter, fatty meats, whole milk and eggs, may also help manage your symptoms.

Preventative Measures

The dietary principles that can help reduce fibroid symptoms may also help prevent them. Women who eat lots of leafy green vegetables, such as kale and spinach, and little or no red meat tend to have a lower risk for fibroids, according to "Dr. Ro's Ten Secrets to Livin' Healthy" by Rovenia M. Brock, M.D. Brock recommends eating seven to 10 servings of leafy greens daily and relying upon soy protein over animal protein most often. Incorporating modest amounts of healthy fat sources, particularly nuts and seeds, can help ensure proper energy levels and nutrient absorption. Regular physical activity also guards against fibroids, so aim for balanced meals at regular time intervals and choose mainly complex carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. In addition to providing nutrients, these foods provide prime fuel for exercise.