Fibroids can be a scary word to hear from a doctor -- though they are often harmless. Fibroids are very common and can grow quickly in some women. In extreme cases, they may warrant a hysterectomy. The exact cause of fibroids is not yet known, though diet and lifestyle seem to play somewhat of a role. The largest link to fibroids is estrogen, and some foods and beverages, including those that contain caffeine, are known to increase estrogen levels. See your doctor if you think you may have fibroids, to determine which course of action is right for you.
Identification
Fibroids are non-cancerous tumors that are most often found on the wall of the uterus. Dr. Scott C. Goodwin notes in his book, "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibroids," that some experts estimate that 50 percent of American women currently deal with fibroids. They may cause pain, or they may cause no symptoms at all, so some women do not even realize they have fibroids. Those who do have symptoms may experience bleeding, pressure, bloating, infertility or complications during pregnancy.
Food
Certain foods may have an effect on fibroids. Fibroid patient-expert Johanna Skilling notes in her book, "The First Year - Fibroids," that because certain foods can raise estrogen levels, they may impact if and how fast your fibroids grow. Diets high in fat and sugar can stress the liver -- which oversees the process of removing extra estrogen from your body -- so it can't properly do its job. Also, body fat can convert androgens into estrogen. On the other hand, phytoestrogens such as soy may inhibit fibroid growth.
Caffeine
According to health writer Sarah Abernathy in her book, "Do You Want to Have a Baby?" caffeine can impact fibroids, as it increases estrogen levels. Abernathy notes research has shown that just 2 cups of coffee a day can increase estradiol levels, which impact endometriosis, fibrocystic breast pain and certain cancers. Caffeine also impacts insulin levels, which is noted as a fibroid trigger, as well. Still, a 2004 study published in "Oxford Journals Human Reproduction" found that caffeine consumption was unrelated to the risk of fibroids in black women.
Considerations
As of publication in September 2011, doctors are still not sure exactly what causes fibroids to appear or grow. Diet and lifestyle more than likely have an impact on fibroids, but there is no conclusive evidence in this area. If you think you have fibroids, be sure to see your doctor, as you may need an ultrasound to determine if they are present. If you do decide to remove caffeine from your diet, be sure you do so slowly, or you may experience intense headaches and even nausea.
References
- "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibroids"; Scott C. Goodwin, MD; 2003
- "The First Year - Fibroids"; Johanna Skilling; 2002
- "Do You Want to Have a Baby?"; Sarah Abernathy; 2006
- "Oxford Journals Human Reproduction"; Risk of Uterine Leiomyomata in Relation to Tobacco, Alcohol and Caffeine Consumption in the Black Women's Health Study; Lauren A. Wise, et. al; Apr. 2004
