Fibroid tumors are benign, muscular tissue that grow in the uterus of women of child-bearing age. According to MayoClinic.com, fibroids develop in three out of four women but usually do not cause any symptoms. A small number of women, however, might experience common symptoms such as heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding, frequent urination and pelvic pain or pressure. Fibroids may also cause fertility issues. They rarely become cancerous and are not directly related to uterine cancer. Fibroids can be treated surgically but some women opt for alternative and less invasive methods such as avoiding certain foods to reduce the symptoms.
Red Meat
A study conducted by the National Uterine Fibroids Foundation shows an association between red meat and fibroids that suggests the hormones found in red meat aggravate fibroid growth. Also fat found in red meat is thought to prevent the breakdown of estrogen, which ultimately leads to elevated levels. Estrogen stimulates fibroid growth. Another risk factor reported by NutritionMD revealed that women who habitually consume one or more servings of red meat per day have a 70 percent chance of becoming susceptible to fibroids.
Refined Flour and Sugar
High glycemic "white" foods such as refined flour and sugar boost insulin levels, which impacts how the body metabolizes estrogen. Dr. Christiane Northrup advises that women should instead consume low-glycemic, complex carbohydrates, such as starchy vegetables and whole grains. Due to high fiber content, complex carbohydrates take more time to digest. Fiber also stimulates the digestive system and promotes fullness, which contributes to hunger control and weight management. Maintaining a healthy weight is key in managing fibroids.
High Sodium Foods
Foods packed in sodium include -- but are not limited to -- cheese, cured meats, frozen dinners, canned vegetables, soups and obvious offenders such as pretzels, popcorn and chips. One way of avoiding an overage of sodium in your diet includes consuming food in its natural form. For instance, purchase vegetables from the produce department instead of the canned variations. Also, for convenient, ready-to-eat meals, search for the low-sodium options.
Alcohol
Alcohol consumption should be avoided in women suffering from fibroids. A study published in the "British Journal of Nutrition" in 2009 discovered a link between alcohol intake and uterine fibroids. Alcohol consumption has also been associated with an elevated risk of obesity, a factor that heightens the risk of fibroid formations.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Uterine Fibroids
- National Uterine Fibroids Foundation: Risk Factors
- NutritionMD: Fibroids: Nutritional Considerations
- Dr. Northrup: Fibroids Information and Treatment Options
- "The British Journal of Nutrition"; Association of Intakes of Fat, Dietary Fibre, Soya Isolflavones and Alcohol with Uterine Fibroids in Japanese Women; Nagata C, et al.; May 2009
Member Comments