Uterine fibroids often cause no symptoms, but larger growths might cause infertility, heavy menstrual bleeding, longer periods and pain. High levels of estrogen and other substances, such as insulin might fuel their growth, along with other factors. Certain holistic strategies, such as diet and lifestyle changes, might curb fibroid growth, and research supports some of these interventions. Not enough evidence exists, though, to make any firm conclusions about whether they would actually work in large numbers of women.
Exercise More and Maintain a Healthy Weight
A multi-center study, led by Anne McTiernan, Ph.D, of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, found that women who exercised the most and had the lowest body mass index had the lowest levels of active forms of estrogen. Exercise appears to directly reduce estrogen. A healthy BMI means you have less fat on your body. Your body synthesizes estrogen from fat tissue and the more you have, the greater your estrogen levels. Researchers recommend 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous exercise five days a week.
Dietary Changes to Consider
Researchers compared the diets of 843 women diagnosed with fibroids to the diets of 1,557 control subjects and published their results in the September 1999 issue of ''Obstetrics and Gynecology.'' Foods associated with an increased risk of fibroids included beef and other red meats and ham. Diets rich in green vegetables, fish and fruits were associated with a lower risk. Mayoclinic.com notes high insulin levels might fuel fibroid growth. Keep production of this hormone in check by eating more fiber-rich foods and fewer refined carbohydrates and sugar.
Reducing Stress
According to researchers at the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina, research suggests a potential connection between stress and fibroids. Their study, published in the July 2010 issue of ''Women's Health Issues,'' involved gathering data on stressful events in women with and without fibroids. Their findings suggest stress might contribute to fibroid growth, but more research is needed.
You can reduce stress in many ways and you should experiment with different strategies to see what works best for you and what you can realistically incorporate into your life. Experiment with yoga, deep breathing, positive visualization, meditation, journaling or anything else you enjoy.
Experimenting with Traditional Chinese Medicine
Licensed acupuncturist and herbalist Randine Lewis, Ph.D., L.Ac., reports research conducted in China suggests herbal medicine might reduce symptoms of fibroids, such as excessive menstrual bleeding, abdominal pain and back pain. Lewis also reports that acupuncture and acupressure targeting areas of the body linked with uterine health, normal blood flow and cell growth.
Chinese medicine operates very differently than Western medicine. Practitioners look far beyond the condition and take into account many individual factors, meaning two people with the same disease and symptoms might receive completely herbs and acupuncture treatments. Consult with a qualified practitioner for guidance on herbal treatments.
References
- ''Women's Health Issues''; The Association Between Self-Reported Major Life Events and the Presence of Uterine Fibroids; A. Vines, et al.; July 2010
- Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Regular Exercise and Keeping Weight in Check Decreases Breast-Cancer Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women; October 2006
- ''Obstetrics and Gynecology''; Diet and Uterine Myomas; F. Chiaffarino, et al.; September 1999
- Acufinder.com; Treatment of Endometriosis and Fibroids with Acupuncture; Randine Lewis, Ph.D., L.Ac.
- MayoClinic.com: Uterine Fibroid Causes
