Uterine fibroids are defined as benign tumors which develop in the uterus. Even though they are made of the same muscle fibers as the uterine wall, they are denser compared to a normal uterine wall. In most cases, they are round.
Uterine fibroids are described depending on their location in the uterus. For instance, submucosal (submucous) are located within the uterine cavity behind the inner lining of the uterus. Subserosal fibroids, on the other hand, are situated behind the lining membrane of the outside of the uterus.
Although benign, uterine fibroids causes various problems, from painful intercourse and PMS cramps to heavy menstrual bleeding. Surgical procedures are commonly used to remove them, but they often keep returning.
Foods That Cause Uterine Fibroids
Here are some of the foods that contribute to tumor growth:
1. Soy Products
Eating some in moderate amounts may be beneficial, but eating them in excess may lead to fibroids growth and gout. Soy products, except for fermented soy, are packed with phytoestrogens which are detrimental to women`s health.
2. Processed Foods
Processed foods contain colorings, preservatives, flavorings, and other foods additives, all of which are toxic to the liver and known to compromise the overall health.
3. Herbicides and Pesticides
Residues from herbicides and pesticides utilized on food crops affect hormones and contribute to various hormonal imbalances.
4. Birth Control Pills
While birth control pills help to reduce heavy menstrual glow, they are also likely to contribute to further growth of the fibroids.
5. Soy Milk
Soy milk is known to cause estrogen dominance, accompanied with symptoms like fibroids in the breasts, infertility, blood clots in menstruation, thyroid issues, weight gain, and irregular menstrual cycles.
Warning Uterine Fibroids Causes and Signs
- Bladder Issues: Fibroids that develop near the bladder are likely to press against it, causing pressure and more frequent visits to the toilet.
- Rectal Pressure: Fibroids that develop toward the back of the uterus might press the rectum, thus uterine fibroids causes uncomfortable feeling and increase the risk of hemorrhoids.
- Lower Back Pain: Fibroids that grow on the outer back of the uterus might press the spinal nerves and cause back pain.
- Prolonged and Heavy Menstruation: Excessive bleeding along with blood clots, and cramps or pain in the lower abdomen is one of the most common signs of uterine fibroids.
- Painful Sexual Intercourse: Sexual intercourse is likely to become painful, depending on the size and location of the fibroid.
- Infertility or Frequent Miscarriages: Even though there are many reasons for this problem, the presence of uterine fibroids is one of them.
- Swelling of Lower Abdomen: Large periods cause swelling of the lower abdomen and might make a woman appear as if pregnant.
How to Prevent and Shrink Uterine Fibroids
Vigorous exercise: Regular exercise combined with eating the right foods helps regulate ovulation and eventually shrink the fibroids.
Manage your stress: Stress deprives the body of essential nutrients, weakens the adrenal glands, and leads to hormonal imbalances.
Eat legumes and beans: Legumes, avocados, beans, and eggs are examples of protein-rich foods which help reduce the size of your fibroids and protect against cervical cancer and cancer of the breast.
Liver support foods: Boost your liver`s function by eating liver-friendly foods like dandelion, grapefruit, beetroot, and milk thistle.
Beverages: Avoid coffee and caffeinated drinks like sodas which are dehydrating and inhibit the absorption of minerals like iron. Consequently, they increase the risk of anemia and further complications.
Water: Avoid tap water as it contains detrimental compounds like heavy metals, chlorine, and fluoride.
Fruits and vegetables: Regular consumption of fruits and veggies together with green juices helps shrink the fibroids faster.
Helpful supplements: Some of the supplements that may be beneficial for shrinking fibroids include:
- Spirulina
- Omega-3
- Zinc
- Vitamin C
- L-arginine
- L-lysine
Helpful herbs: Some of the herbs that help shrink fibroids include:
- Dandelion root
- Nettle tea
- Turmeric
- Black cohosh
- Pau d’arco
Via: MedicineNet
