Fibroid are abnormal, primarily non-cancerous growths that develop on or in a woman’s uterus, specifically on the exterior or interior walls. Women between ages 30-50 are most likely to develop fibroids, but so are obese or overweight women. About 70-80% of women experience fibroids by age 50. Fibroids can be small, or can grow to be the size of a melon. The four types of fibroids are:
- Intramural: These grow in the wall of the uterus and are the most common.
- Subserosal Fibroids: Located on the outside wall of the uterus, these can develop into pedunculated fibroids (stalks).
- Submucosal Fibroids: These occur in the muscle beneath the lining of the uterus wall.
- Cerivcal Fibroids: These occur in the cervix.
Doctors are not sure of the exact cause of fibroids, but the belief is that multiple factors contribute to their development. Fibroids can swell or develop if estrogen levels are high, for example, during pregnancy. Fibroids may shrink and estrogen levels will fall during menopause, which is why women in menopause may not experience any symptoms. Alternative wellness tends to blame dairy products for the cause of fibroids. Many women consume too much dairy, especially cheese and ice cream. Dairy products are very unhealthy and consuming too much of them can be harmful to your health.
Cleanse The Body
Cleansing or detoxifying the body is a beneficial way to naturally get rid of toxins and old hormones, both of which can contribute to the formation of fibroids. Our Full Body Cleanse can be the first step in the right direction toward minimizing fibroid growth. You may also consider taking part in a liver cleanse to help expel toxins from the body.
Hydrate, Hydrate, & Hydrate Some More
Staying hydrated is best for proper circulation in the body. Drinking alkaline or distilled water is best, but you can also drink herbal teas like ginger, green tea, echinacea, or astragalus, all of which can help decrease inflammation. When it comes to water, the recommended amount of water to drink is eight 8oz glasses per day, or you can drink half your body weight in ounces of water. If you weigh 150lbs and divide that by 2 to get 75, then you should drink 75oz of water every day.
No More “White Food”
Decrease the amount of “white food” that you eat. These food items include white bread, cookies, pastas, and cakes. They increase insulin, which changes the way the body metabolizes estrogen, and create compounds in the body that can lead to fibroid development. Any foods that are inflammatory are best to avoid because they can contribute to swelling.
Castor Oil Pack
It may be beneficial to place a warm castor oil pack on your lower abdomen to help decrease swelling or minimize the growth of fibroids. You can purchase a castor oil pack, or you can make your own. To make your own, soak a piece of wool flannel in castor oil and place it on the abdomen. Cover it with plastic wrap, place a heating pad or hot water bottle on top, leave it on for an hour or so, and then remove it. Do this four times a week for a month, or until symptoms subside.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a great natural remedy for fibroids because it helps restore a neutral pH balance, while removing toxins from the body and promoting fat loss. Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of distilled water and drink this regularly, increasing the amount of apple cider vinegar as your body gets used to it. Up to 2 tablespoons per glass is ideal.
Eat Garlic
Garlic is a great herb that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Eating raw garlic or adding it to fresh juices and smoothies may help discourage the growth of fibroids. If eating raw garlic is too intense, you can cook with it in every meal to reap its benefits. The results will be better if you eat it in its raw form, though.