A Diet for Fibroid Recovery
Fibroids, benign tumors that grow on the uterus, usually appear during a woman's childbearing years and almost never become malignant. Most often, fibroids do not cause symptoms, and as many as three out of four women may have them. However, if they grow too large, fibroids can cause some problems. Though surgery is only required for problematic fibroids, some dietary changes may help as well.
-
What to Take Away
-
Foods made with white flours increase levels of insulin in the body. When this occurs, the body begins to metabolize estrogen differently, making compounds that inflame cells and aggravate fibroids. Pre-existing fibroids may also grow after ingesting too much flour. Foods to avoid include white bread, pasta made from wheat, cookies and other desserts. Alternative flours, such as spelt, rice and tapioca can all safely replace white flour. Also, it is good to cut out alcohol since it can raise levels of estrogen as well.
What to Add
-
Phytoestrogens, plant-based hormones found in foods such as flax and soy, are beneficial to a woman's health. These hormones, a safer substitute to man-made hormones, block estrogen from affecting the cells in fibroids by blocking estrogen receptors. When a woman eats soy or flax, the body produces lower levels of unhealthy estrogen. Also, the fiber and omega-3 fats in flaxseed cut down inflammation throughout the body, including tumors, and flush extra estrogen from the body.
-
Supplements
-
Certain dietary supplements can help in women with fibroids. Chasteberry has a progesteronelike effect and helps in a whole array of women's issues. Cat's claw, an antioxidant, reduces the build-up of toxins that lead to abnormal cell growth. Grapefruit seed is antifungal and antibacterial, which helps fibroids by destroying unwanted cells. Another antioxidant that may prevent fibroids is oleuropein, found in olive leaves.
-
