Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus of women between their childbearing years. While they are usually harmless, they can sometimes cause painful symptoms and heavy bleeding. Researchers have identified several triggers that can cause and worsen fibroid growth. In this blog, we will discuss some common triggers and how you can avoid them to protect yourself from fibroids.
Too much estrogen
Estrogen dominance is one of the most common causes of fibroid growth. Estrogen is the female hormone that controls the reproductive system, and when it’s out of balance, it can lead to tissue growth. High levels of estrogen can be due to weight gain, excessive alcohol consumption, and taking hormonal birth control pills. To avoid fibroids, women should reduce their intake of foods that cause high levels of estrogen such as soy products, meat, and alcohol. They can also seek guidance from a healthcare provider for birth control options that do not increase their estrogen levels.
Low fiber diet
A low-fiber diet has been linked to the development of fibroids. A diet that lacks fiber can cause constipation, leading to toxin accumulation in the body. The accumulation of toxins can stimulate the growth of fibroids. Women should consume a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables and limit their intake of processed foods to avoid fibroid growth.
Dairy
Research has shown that women who consume high-fat dairy products are more likely to develop fibroids. Full-fat dairy products contain arachidonic acid, which can increase inflammation, a potential cause of fibroid development. Women can avoid dairy products with high-fat content, and instead, consume low-fat milk.
Body and hair care
Women should avoid using hair and body care products that contain hormone-disrupting chemicals such as parabens and phthalates. These chemicals can disrupt the hormonal system, leading to an estrogen imbalance that can stimulate fibroid growth.
House cleaning agents and fragranced candles
House cleaning agents such as bleach and other harsh chemicals, and fragranced candles contain chemicals that are known to disrupt hormones. These chemicals can mimic the action of estrogen, leading to high levels of the hormone and increasing the risk of fibroid growth. Instead, women should opt for natural cleaning agents and fragrance-free candles.
Plastics
Some plastics used for food packaging, such as Bisphenol A (BPA), have been reported to have estrogen-like effects, which can lead to an estrogen imbalance and increase the risk of fibroid development. Women should avoid using plastic containers to store their food, and also avoid oily and fatty foods, which can further increase estrogen levels.
Uterine fibroids are a common problem faced by many women today. The good news is that important steps can be taken to prevent them from developing. We have discussed several triggers that can cause fibroids and how they can be avoided. To recap, women should reduce their intake of hormone-disrupting chemicals such as synthetic fragrance, parabens, and plastics. They should also reduce their intake of foods and drinks that cause elevated estrogen levels, incorporate high-fiber foods to their diets and prefer low-fat dairy products.
The key factor is to lead a healthy lifestyle by incorporating healthy habits such as daily exercise, regular check-ups with a gynecologist, and a balanced diet. Making small changes in our lifestyle can make a significant impact in protecting ourselves from fibroids, and also boosts our overall wellbeing in the long run.