Diet To Reduce Fibroid Cysts

Up to 75 percent of women develop noncancerous growths in their uterus at some point, according to MayoClinic.com. Although these growths, known as fibroids, often cause no symptoms, nearly 35 percent of premenopausal women experience debilitating symptoms, such as severe cramping, pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding and frequent urination. In addition to medical treatment, when necessary, altering your diet may help manage your symptoms. For best results, seek specified guidance from your doctor or dietitian.

Function

One goal of a "fibroid-fighting diet" is to regulate your levels of the hormone estrogen, according to "The FIrst Year -- An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed," co-authored by Dr. Nelson H. Stringer, an obstetrician/gynecologist at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke's Medical Center in Chicago, Illinois. Because estrogen imbalances are associated with fibroids, improving your levels may lead to fewer symptoms and prevent additional fibroids from forming. Your diet should also provide sufficient amounts of nutrients and calories and guard against blood sugar imbalances, which may also contribute to fibroid symptoms.

Helpful Foods

Low-glycemic foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts and low-fat dairy products, help promote positive blood sugar levels, reducing your risk for fibroids, according to an Aug. 2010 "Empowerment Magazine" article by registered dietitian Nana Ataa Ofosu-Benefo. Fiber may help prevent your fibroids from growing. Particularly fiber-rich foods include beans, lentils, peas, raspberries, artichokes, oats, barley and whole grain pasta. Natural estrogen-like compounds in soy may improve your estrogen levels, according to Stringer. Valuable sources include tofu, steamed or boiled soybeans and soy milk.

Foods to Avoid

Although most foods suit a diet for fibroid management in proper amounts, limiting low-nutrient foods helps ensure plenty of room in your diet for helpful foods. To maintain high fiber intake, avoid refined foods, such as white bread, instant rice, pretzels and other foods based upon enriched flour. High-glycemic foods, which may offset your blood sugar, particularly if you eat them on their own, include candy, dates, rice cakes, fruit juice, soft drinks and white flour products. Fats in dairy products, such as cheese, whole milk and ice cream, contain arachidonic acid, which may increase cramps and pelvic pain according to Stringer. Fatty meats, butter and margarine may increase inflammation.

Beverages

Staying well hydrated is important for overall wellness and bowel regularity, according to Ofosu-Benefo; as your fiber intake increases, so should your fluid intake. Your best options include water, caffeine-free herbal teas and low-fat or soy milk. Limit caffeinated, carbonated and alcoholic beverages, which may contribute to abdominal symptoms, offset your moods, blood sugar and energy, and reduce hydration, if you consume it in excess.