The One Option for Fibroids You Should Be Aware Of

Understanding Fibroids: A Common Women's Health Issue

Fibroids, also known as uterine leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary significantly in size, from as small as a pea to as large as a melon. According to the Office on Women's Health, fibroids affect an estimated 20-50% of women of reproductive age (source).

Symptoms and Causes

The symptoms of fibroids can range from non-existent to severe and may include:

• Heavy or painful periods
• Bleeding between periods
• Pain during intercourse
• Lower back pain

While the exact cause of fibroids is unknown, they are believed to be influenced by hormonal factors, particularly estrogen. High levels of estrogen can promote the growth of fibroids, which often shrink after menopause when estrogen levels decline.

Traditional Treatments: Drugs and Surgery

Western medicine typically offers two main treatments for fibroids:

1. Medications: These can help control symptoms and slow the growth of fibroids.
2. Surgery: Procedures like myomectomy (removal of fibroids) or hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) are often recommended for severe cases.

A Natural Alternative: Therapeutic Use of Food

If you're seeking an alternative to drugs and surgery, consider using food therapeutically to manage fibroids. This approach focuses on dietary choices that support the body's natural healing processes.

How Food Can Help

1. High-Fiber Foods: Fresh, whole foods rich in fiber aid the liver in processing and eliminating toxins, including excess estrogen. Examples include:

   • Whole grains
   • Green vegetables
   • Fruits

2. Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Foods that reduce inflammation can also be beneficial. These include:

   • Fatty fish (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
   • Nuts and seeds
   • Olive oil

The Role of Stored Emotions

Dr. Christiane Northrup, author of Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom, describes fibroids as an "illness of competition." At LSW, we believe that fibroids may represent stored emotions, such as anger or resentment. Modern women often lack outlets for stress, leading to the accumulation of unprocessed emotions in the body.

Steps to Emotional Healing

Investigating your relationship with these emotions and finding healthy outlets for their expression can be crucial in your healing journey. Consider practices like:

• Journaling
• Meditation
• Counseling

First Steps to Managing Fibroids Naturally

If you're dealing with fibroids, here are some initial steps you can take:

1. Increase:

   • Whole grains
   • Green vegetables
   • Rest, playtime, and downtime

2. Decrease:

   • Sugar
   • Alcohol
   • Caffeine

3. Symptomatic Relief:

   • Apply a hot water bottle (filled with warm to hot water, not boiling) to the abdomen for pain relief.

Questions About Fibroids?

Feel free to ask questions and leave comments in our comments section below. An LSW Counselor will respond to help you understand the natural healing options available to you.

LSW is dedicated to empowering you with knowledge about natural health options, enabling you to make informed decisions about your body and menstrual health.

Interesting Stats About Fibroids

• Prevalence: By age 50, up to 70% of white women and 80% of African American women will have fibroids (source).
• Economic Impact: The annual economic burden of fibroids in the U.S. is estimated to be between $5.9 billion and $34.4 billion (source).

By understanding the impact of diet and emotions on fibroids, you can take proactive steps towards managing this common condition naturally.