With numerous proven connections between dietary choices and the prevalence of specific diseases, it’s clear that our choices – such as eating or avoiding certain foods – do affect our overall health. This is also the case when it comes to uterine fibroids.
While about 70 percent of women will develop fibroids at some point during their childbearing years, the severity of symptoms experienced by women may vary wildly. Some women have no symptoms at all and might have no idea that they developed a fibroid. Others will suffer from bloating, cramping, abdominal pain, and other symptoms that can seriously impact quality of life.
Is there a relationship between the foods you eat and fibroid growth, as well as symptoms? Wondering if you’re more at risk for developing fibroids if you’re overweight? Read on to learn more about how dietary choices can affect your fibroid condition and your likelihood of developing fibroids.
Weight gain and uterine fibroids: is there a connection?
While the exact cause of fibroids is still being researched, several studies have concluded that there is a connection between weight gain and uterine fibroids. Specifically, weight gain as an adult and having a high body mass index (BMI) are believed to make women more susceptible to fibroids.
Researchers found that women who reported weight gain after the age of 18 were more likely to develop fibroids. But that same study also found that childhood or adolescent obesity were not risk factors that increase the likelihood of uterine fibroids. It appears that being at a heavier weight as an adult does correlate with a larger chance of being diagnosed with fibroids.
One study found a positive correlation between being overweight or obese and an increased chance of developing fibroids, specifically in women of African ancestry. However, it’s critical to note that this was only the case for women who have given birth.
Are there foods or drinks that can help me manage my fibroids?
The short answer to this question is yes.
Research has found that fruits, vegetables, and other foods that contain Vitamin D can serve as potential protection from developing fibroids. Conversely, the same study discovered that consuming alcohol, red meat, and ham appear to increase the likelihood of being diagnosed with fibroids. Those same foods and alcohol can exacerbate the severity and frequency of your fibroid symptoms.
Another study found a correlation between low levels of fruit and green vegetable consumption and a higher risk of developing fibroids. That study also found that women who have a Vitamin D deficiency are also more likely to be diagnosed with fibroids, though the researchers couldn’t pinpoint the exact cause and effect between the condition and diet.
According to an additional study, drinking green tea can help reduce inflammation and slow down fibroid growth. Consuming a green tea extract, rather than drinking it, is also a safe and effective therapeutic aid for relief from fibroid pain and other symptoms, the researchers found.
What foods should I avoid if I have uterine fibroids?
Foods that are simple carbohydrate-heavy or sugary may make fibroids worse. While changing your diet isn’t an end-all, be-all cure for pain and discomfort, you may want to see if cutting certain foods out of your diet makes you feel better. Try avoiding these foods and see if your symptoms improve.
Maintaining a healthy body weight can both decrease the likelihood of developing large fibroids, as well as slow down fibroid growth and relieve symptoms. Talk to your doctor about the ideal nutrition plan for your condition, as well as other lifestyle choices you can make to improve your health and potentially reduce the painful symptoms associated with uterine fibroids.
Read more about how to manage your diet and make healthier dietary choices here.
Here at Talking Fibroids, our goal is to educate people about Uterine Fibroids and their symptoms. Find out more about us here or get in contact with us today!
