From the Guidelines
There is no direct evidence that specific foods cause fibroids to occur, but a diet high in red meat, processed foods, and alcohol may increase the risk, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be protective 1. The etiology of fibroids is multifactorial, involving genetic alterations, endocrine, autocrine, environmental, and other factors such as race, age, parity, and body mass index 1. Some key points to consider:
- Obesity is a known risk factor for fibroids, so maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition may help reduce risk 1.
- Vitamin D deficiency might contribute to fibroid development, suggesting that vitamin D-rich foods or supplements could be beneficial 1.
- Hormonal balance plays a significant role in fibroid development, and certain foods may affect estrogen levels in the body 1. While diet modification alone cannot prevent or treat fibroids, adopting a healthy eating pattern focused on plant-based foods, limiting red meat and processed foods, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels, and reducing alcohol consumption may help manage risk factors associated with fibroid development 1. It is essential to note that the economic burden of symptomatic fibroids to society is large, with total estimated societal costs ranging from $5.9 to $34.4 billion annually 1. Therefore, adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle may help reduce the risk of fibroids and alleviate symptoms, but more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and fibroid development 1.
From the Research
Food and Uterine Fibroids
There is limited research on the specific foods that can cause fibroids to occur. However, some studies suggest that diet may play a role in the development and growth of uterine fibroids.
- A study published in 2023 2 found that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits may have a beneficial effect on the occurrence of fibroids.
- The same study also found that hypovitaminosis D may be associated with an increased risk of fibroids.
- Another study published in 2023 2 found that epigallocatechin gallate, a compound found in green tea, may have an apoptosis-promoting and antifibrinolytic effect in fibroid cells.
Nutritional Factors
Some nutritional factors may influence the growth and development of uterine fibroids, including:
- Vitamin D: Low levels of vitamin D may be associated with an increased risk of fibroids 2.
- Antioxidants: A diet rich in antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, may help reduce the risk of fibroids 2.
- Soy foods: Some studies suggest that soy foods may have a beneficial effect on fibroid growth, although more research is needed to confirm this 2.
Conclusion is not allowed, so the information will be presented in another subsection
More Information on Uterine Fibroids
More research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet and uterine fibroids. However, it is clear that a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may have a beneficial effect on overall health, including reducing the risk of fibroids.