Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous tumours or growths of the uterus.
They are also known as myomas, fibromyomas, or leiomyomas.
Despite their name, fibroids are not fibrous; they are comprised of connective tissue and muscle.
They can appear in groups and grow either inside or outside of the uterus.
Approximately 50 percent of women have fibroids; however, many are unaware.
They can be smaller than a pea, or grow as large as a football.
In rare cases fibroids can develop into cancer; however, most often they are not harmful,
but may cause pain and discomfort when they become large and put pressure on the abdomen and bladder.
Fibroids typically appear during the child-bearing years, particularly between the ages of 30 and 40 years,
and then shrink in menopause. While the actual cause of fibroids is uncertain, it is known that their growth is stimulated by estrogen.
Fibroids are becoming increasingly common today, which has been attributed to high amounts of xenoestrogens (estrogen-like compounds) in our food supply and environment


ENVIRONMENTAL ESTROGENS
Xenoestrogens are substances that have estrogen-like activity in the body.
They are present in foods (fish, meat,and dairy) and in the environment (plastics, pesticides, and skin care products).
Research suggests that xenoestrogens may play a role in uterine fibroids, certain cancers, and premature sexual maturity in young girls


Many women do not realize they have fibroids until it is discovered as a result of a pelvic examination or prenatal ultrasound.
For those who develop large fi broid tumours, signs and symptoms vary depending on location, and may include:
• Anemia (due to heavy bleeding)
• Backache or leg pains
• Constipation
• Heavy menstrual bleeding and prolonged periods
• Infertility and miscarriages
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Urinary frequency or incontinence

Age: Most common between the ages of 30 and 40 years
• Estrogen excess (promotes growth of fibroids)
• Family history (fibroids contain genetic alterations)
• Insulin-like growth factor (may stimulate fibroid growth)
• Race (fibroid are more common among Black women)


A holistic approach to treating fibroids is aimed at reducing levels of circulating estrogens and supporting liver function (the liver detoxifi es estrogen).
This can be achieved through dietary, lifestyle, and supplemental approaches.
Dietary Recommendations Foods to include:
• Fibre-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will help extract excessive estrogen stores from the body.
• Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, caulifl ower, and Brussels sprouts are particularly helpful, as they contain compounds that help the liver detoxify estrogen.
• Choose organic foods whenever possible to reduce ingestion of xenoestrogens from pesticides.
• Foods containing phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogens), such as soy foods and fl axseed, help balance estrogen levels.
• Artichokes, beets, carrots, dandelion greens, garlic, and onions contain compounds that support liver function and detoxifi cation of hormones.
• Drink more green tea, as it contains polyphenols that block the negative effects of estrogen and help protect against estrogen-related cancers.
• Those with heavy bleeding may require additional iron to prevent anemia. The best food sources of iron include clams,oysters,organ meats,beef,pork,poultry,and fish.
Iron is also present in eggs,dried beans,fortified cereals,and dark green leafy vegetables.
Foods to avoid:
• Meat,dairy,and fish (farmed salmon) may contain dioxins and other xenoestrogens that can stimulate fibroid growth and worsen symptoms.
• Minimize sugar and caffeine, which can trigger pain and inflammation.


Lifestyle Suggestions

• Reduce stress, as it can cause hormonal changes that may worsen fibroid symptoms. Try yoga, tai chi, and breathing techniques.
• Regular exercise of moderate-intensity activity for one hour daily reduces stress and will help to maintain a healthy body weight.
• Acupuncture helps relieve pelvic pain and swelling.
• Apply castor oil to your pelvic area, cover with plastic and a hot towel. Leave in place for one hour and do this three times per week.
Top Recommended Supplements Calcium D-glucarate: Assists in the elimination of estrogen. Dosage: 400–500 mg daily.
Indole-3-carbinol: Helps with the detoxification or breakdown of estrogen. Dosage: 200–400 mg daily.
Chasteberry: Helps to normalize hormone levels. Dosage: 160–240 mg daily.

Complementary Supplements Dandelion root and milk thistle: Help support liver detoxification. Dosage varies. Follow label directions or the advice of your health care provider. Pancreatic enzymes: May help reduce unusual cell and tissue growths. Dosage: One capsule between meals three times daily.
Red raspberry tea: An astringent that helps reduce uterine inflammation and prevents fibroid growth. Dosage: 500–1,000 ml daily.


FINAL THOUGHTS
Fibroids are a common condition that affects women of child-bearing years. To prevent and manage fibroids naturally, consider the following:
1. Reduce exposure to xenoestrogens (plastics, pesticides, non-organic meat, and dairy).
2. Boost fi bre intake; eat more cruciferous vegetables.
3. Reduce stress and get regular exercise.
4. Acupuncture can help relieve pain and promote relaxation.
5. Consider supplements of indole-3-carbinol, calcium D-glucarate, and chasteberry