Diet for fibroids
Dear Donovan,
I am a 40-year-old with multiple fibroid growths on my uterus. I’d like to know how to go about shrinking my fibroids, and is there a particular diet to control the growth? Also, what might be the best options in getting rid of them?
Uterine fibroids are usually non-cancerous growths of the uterus that sometimes appear during a woman’s childbearing years. However, these growths are usually not associated with increased risk of cancer and they usually never develop into cancer. These fibroids may vary in shape and size and may be a single fibroid or multiple ones. In some cases these fibroids cause no symptoms and may even go undetected. However, for those women who show symptoms, these symptoms may vary from person to person. These symptoms may also vary from heavy menstrual bleeding to stomach, back and leg pain.
It is still not very clear why fibroids are formed. However, some studies have suggested that genetic, heredity factors do play a part. In addition, the hormone levels, for example oestrogen in the body, also seem to play a part. In addition, other growth factors present in the body might also play a role in the growth of fibroids.
It would have been interesting to know if you are experiencing any symptoms from your fibroids. Ultimately, whether you do treatment or not would depend on whether you are having pains or any other discomfort. Usually during menopause these fibroids will shrink completely or get smaller. If there is no problem, they usually go away at menopause.
I have also noticed that fibroids seem to be associated with constipation. Therefore, it is very important to keep the bowels clean. Hence, eating foods rich in fibre is very important. I would suggest that you try to have a fair amount of fruits, whole grains, vegetables and vegetable juices. In addition, ensuring that the pH of the body is alkaline is also very important. Growth of fibroids seems to occur more when the body is acidic. Therefore you should eat more foods which are alkaline in nature. In general, try and maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep your weight under control. Women facing problems with fibroids are normally treated with medication or surgery.
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Are you struggling to lose weight or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, Suite 16, 39 Lady Musgrave Road, Kingston 5. Send your questions to clarkep@ jamaicaobserver.com.
