Uterine Fibroid: Dos and Don'ts
Do’s …
Load up
on fresh fruits
and vegetables.A recent study found that eating plenty of fruits like
apples and tomatoes, and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage,
could lower the risk of developing fibroid. And, eating healthier choices like
organic fruits
and vegetables and whole-grain foods could help improve your symptoms.
Keep an
eye on your blood
pressure.Researchers
have shown a strong link between fibroid and high
blood pressure. Talk to your doctor about how to
manage your blood pressure, either with diet, lifestyle, or medication.
Manage your stress level. While
researchers are still examining the impact of stress on fibroid, some studies
suggest the two may be linked. Try relaxation techniques like yoga, massage, and tai
chi to help manage your stress. Some women find that
alternative therapies like acupuncture can help relieve their period pain, too.
Make
yourself comfortable. If
you’re having painful periods because of your fibroid, try lying down and
elevating your legs with a pillow. Or lie on your side and bring your knees into your chest to take the pressure off your back.
Talk to
your doctor before trying any supplements. There is
some research that suggests supplements like vitamin
D could be helpful in lowering your risk for
fibroid.
While some alternative medicine practitioners recommend
supplements like raspberry leaf tea to
support pregnancy and treat issues like PMS, it’s not recommended for fibroid. That’s because the
tea can have an estrogen-like effect on the body and make your problem worse.
That’s why it’s always important to discuss all medications and supplements --
even if they’re natural -- with your doctor. They could have side effects
you’re not aware of.
Don’ts …
Don’t
eat a diet full of processed foods, red meats, and high-fat dairy. Studies
show that eating these foods can make your fibroid worse. The same goes for
alcohol and caffeine.
Don’t
skip your workouts. One
study found that women who exercised the most (about 7 hours per week of
activities like running, dancing, or walking) had the lowest chance of
developing fibroid. Exercise can also help keep your blood pressure down.
Don’t
overdo it on the sugar. A study
found that eating a high-sugar diet could be linked to a higher risk of
fibroid.
Don’t
smoke. Experts believe that smoking can increase your period pain because it reduces the
amount of oxygen that gets to your pelvic region.
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