Uterine fibroids also called leiomyomas, are benign tumors that grow from the uterus. Fibroids are made of dense muscle layers that can grow in different areas of the uterus, including the outer wall, within the uterine muscle and inside the uterus. They may be very small, or large enough to affect surrounding structures and organs.
Most of the time, fibroids are asymptomatic, however, when symptoms occur they can include heavy bleeding, heaviness in the pelvic area, urinary frequency, infertility, or in severe cases, an enlarged abdomen.
Reasons why women develop uterine fibroids in the first place are unknown, however, fibroids are dependent on oestrogen to grow. Oestrogen levels can be higher than normal in the body for several reasons:
Women today, unlike their ancestors, have a greater number of periods throughout their lives. This occurs as menstruating starts at an earlier age, and menopause occurs later. The number of pregnancies has also declined, contributing to greater amounts of oestrogen in the body throughout life.
- Obesity increases oestrogen levels in the body. This occurs because fatty tissue has the capacity to convert hormones such as androgens into oestrogen, which adds to internal oestrogen levels.
- Diets with high amounts of refined carbohydrates, fat and low fibre are thought to contribute to oestrogen dependant conditions.
- Environmental oestrogens, including plastics, may play a role.
- The liver and the bowel may not be clearing oestrogen from the body effectively, which means oestrogen may be recycled instead of eliminated.
Treatment to help manage fibroids is tailored around normalising oestrogen levels in the body. Here are some key steps to help:
- Choose a low saturated fat and whole grain diet. Limit the use of refined carbohydrates, processed and take away foods. These bad fats are thought to alter the balance of good bacteria that help break down and eliminate oestrogen from the body.
- Consume adequate soluble and insoluble fibre. Fibre helps to prevent oestrogen from being reabsorbed.
- Pro-biotics from cultured dairy products or supplements also decrease the amount of oestrogen being reabsorbed into circulation, through the mechanism of good bacteria.
- Plant based oestrogens such as soy or linseeds (flaxseeds) help modulate excess oestrogen in the body.
- Liver cells can receive a boost when you eat vegetables from the cabbage family. These vegetables which include broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts have special constituents that increase the rate the liver excretes oestrogen.
- Exercise helps clear oestrogen from the body. Aim for 30 minutes three to four times per week.
- Avoid drinking from plastic containers, especially if they have been in the sun and don’t heat up food in plastic containers.
References available upon request
