What Should I Avoid With Fibroids

Fibroids (leiomyomas) are noncancerous growths that form in the uterus. While many women have fibroids and experience no problems, they can cause pelvic pain and heavy menstrual bleeding. Those diagnosed with fibroids and who have life altering symptoms should understand all of their options for fibroid treatment in order to make the best choice for their overall health and wellness.

The doctors at American Fibroid Centers provide helpful guidance during a thorough fibroid consultation at one of our convenient locations. Patients living in Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, Brooklyn, West Orange, NJ, or Cincinnati, OH can call to schedule a consultation to discuss how we provide comprehensive fibroid treatment options like uterine fibroid embolization (UFE).

What fibroid symptoms are most common?

The most common fibroid symptoms reported by patients include pelvic pain and pressure, heavy menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, and discomfort during sexual intercourse. An enlarged abdomen is also possible if the leiomyomas are very large.

What to avoid with uterine fibroids

It is important to understand that avoiding certain foods will not “cure” or shrink existing fibroids. However, American Fibroid Centers may make recommendations based on a patient’s health and existing symptoms. The following is a short list of what to avoid based on the latest research and what has worked for patients in the past:

• Processed foods: A diet high in processed foods has been linked to fibroid development and growth.
• Red meat: Women who consume red meat several times a week or more are likely to develop leiomyomas.
• High-fat dairy products: Research suggests that consuming high-fat dairy products may exacerbate fibroid symptoms.
• Alcohol and caffeine: Alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body and aggravate fibroid symptoms.

While there is not one specific diet for fibroids, making healthier choices and avoiding foods that worsen symptoms may improve overall wellness and quality of life.

Is there a way to prevent fibroids?

There is no sure way to prevent leiomyomas since many factors contribute to their development and growth, including genetics and family history. However, patients near Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, Brooklyn, West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH can lower their risk through the following:

• Eat balanced meals: This includes a diet rich in fruits and leafy green vegetables. Patients should also aim to consume less sugar and processed foods.
• Exercise regularly: Staying active is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing a wide variety of health conditions, including uterine fibroids.
• Manage stress: Anxiety can have a negative impact on the body. Patients may turn to proven methods like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises to lower stress.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Research shows that obese and overweight women are more likely to develop leiomyomas. Those who struggle with obesity may want to consult with a primary care physician about their weight.

Learn what to avoid with fibroids

Pelvic pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and other symptoms make daily life difficult for women with uterine fibroids. The team at American Fibroid Centers is here to help. Our specialists make recommendations about fibroid treatment during a fibroid assessment in our office. Patients living in Queens, Fishkill, Harlem, Brooklyn, West Orange, NJ, and Cincinnati, OH can call to schedule an appointment today.