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Depending on the case sometimes surgery or medication may be the only option to relieve the discomfort of fibroids. However, there are many women who simply adjust their lifestyle habits to improve their condition. Even if you undergo any medical treatments, incorporating a more natural approach can definitely support your healing journey from fibroids. It is important to understand all of your treatment options because there are many things you can do to recover from the symptoms that come from having fibroids. Here are some easy dos and don’ts that can truly make a difference on your road to recovery.
Do's:
Eat More Organic Foods.
Loading up your diet with organic foods can provide your body with minerals and nutrients that are needed to fight off any ailments your body may be dealing with. Choosing organic is always the best way to go because these foods do not contain high amounts of pesticides, chemicals, or hormone-disrupting components that can worsen your fibroid symptoms. I recommend focusing on a diet high in quality protein, leafy green vegetables, and healthy fats like avocado and olive oil.
Monitor Your Blood Pressure.
Studies have shown a clear link between fibroids and high blood pressure. Almost 40% of women who have high blood pressure end up being diagnosed with fibroids as well. A great way to manage this is through moderate exercise, stress management, and reducing caffeine intake. Try starting a symptom journal to record your blood pressure and anything you may have done differently that day. Doing so can help identify your triggers and what works for you to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.
Listen To Your Body.
For some women, fibroids can result in severe symptoms, especially near their menstrual cycle. Painful cramps can really impact a woman's quality of life during their time of the month. Making yourself comfortable and listening to your body's needs can truly help reduce any discomfort. Heat pads, herbal teas, or going for a massage can help alleviate any pain you may be experiencing.
Start Taking Supplements.
Addressing your concerns with a more holistic approach, like taking whole-food supplements can do wonders for your body. Fibroids usually develop due to a hormonal imbalance. An appropriate supplement regime can help reduce your symptoms and risk of your condition worsening. I created a program called Hormone Reboot which allows me to help women do exactly this. I educate and empower women to take control of their bodies through natural medicine and living a healthy lifestyle. If you are interested in learning more about this approach, click here.
Now let’s talk about the don’ts…
Eliminate Processed Foods from Your Diet.
Most of the time, processed foods contain ingredients that can barely be pronounced. These foods are extremely inflammatory and are loaded with high amounts of preservatives, sugar, and hormone-disrupting chemicals that can cause weight gain and worsen your fibroid symptoms. The best advice I can give you is to avoid these foods at all costs to improve your condition and overall health.
Stay Away from Soy Products.
Soy can negatively impact women who are estrogen sensitive. Soy contains a substance called phytoestrogen which acts like estrogen in the body. Subsequently, this directly disrupts the hormonal balance within the body, especially during your ovulation cycle. Long-term effects can result in reproductive concerns like infertility, PMS, fibroids, and much more.
Stop Consuming Dairy Products.
Milk and other dairy products like cheese, butter, and yogurt are loaded with steroids and hormones which negatively affect the body. Countless studies link dairy consumption with the growth of tumors, hormonal imbalance, and high levels of inflammation. The best way to avoid this is switching to plant-based milk like oat, almond, or coconut. Another healthy swap can be using goat cheese instead of other processed cheese like American and other cheese blends. Lastly, my top recommendation is ditching butter spreads and using grass-fed butter like Kerrygold.
Don’t Skip Workouts.
Studies actually show women who exercise less have a higher chance of developing fibroids. Doing so can also manage healthy blood pressure levels. I recommend finding an active activity you enjoy doing the most like walking, cycling, or even swimming, and start there. The idea is to simply get your body moving.