How Functional Medicine Can Fight Back Against Fibroids

For many women, fibroids are an unavoidable reality. These benign growths in the uterus can cause a host of symptoms like heavy bleeding, pain, and even infertility. But while fibroids are common, that doesn’t mean they’re normal.

Fibroids are often the result of imbalances in the body, specifically hormones, and inflammation. And while there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to treating fibroids, there are particular lifestyle and dietary changes that can help reduce their symptoms and even shrink them over time.

However, functional medicine can help identify the root causes of fibroids and provide a more holistic approach to treatment.

What Are Fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in the uterus. They’re made up of smooth muscle and connective tissue, and they can range in size from very small (just a few millimeters) to very large (several centimeters).

Fibroids are incredibly common, with an estimated two-thirds of women developing them at some point in their lives. And while they can occur at any age, they’re most common during childbearing years.

There are several different types of fibroids, but the most common are:

Fibroids can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pain, and pressure in the abdomen or pelvis. They can also lead to fertility problems and an increased risk of miscarrying.

In some cases, fibroids can even make it difficult to become pregnant in the first place.

What Causes Fibroids?

The exact cause of fibroids is unknown. However, several risk factors have been linked to their development, including:

Hormonal imbalances: Estrogen is a key player in the growth of fibroids. In fact, fibroids tend to grow larger during pregnancy when estrogen levels are at their highest. Birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives can also cause an increase in fibroid growth.

Inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to the development of fibroids. This could be due to inflammatory conditions like endometriosis or autoimmune diseases like lupus or Crohn’s disease.

Family history: If your mother or sister had fibroids, you’re more likely to develop them as well.

Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in fruits and vegetables has been linked to an increased risk of fibroids.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a risk factor for fibroids. This could be due to the fact that obesity leads to higher levels of estrogen in the body.

How Functional Medicine Can Help Fight Fibroids

Functional medicine is a healthcare approach that looks at the whole person, not just their symptoms. It focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease rather than simply treating the symptoms.

This holistic approach can be incredibly helpful for women with fibroids, as it can help identify imbalances in the body that may contribute to their development.

For example, if a woman has fibroids, a functional medicine practitioner may recommend:

Eating a nutritious diet: A healthy diet is essential for overall health, but it’s especially important for women with fibroids. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables can help to reduce inflammation in the body and balance hormone levels.

Avoiding trigger foods: There are certain foods that can trigger inflammation and make fibroids worse. These include sugar, dairy, and gluten.

Exercising regularly: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress, balance hormone levels, and improve circulation. All of these things can help to reduce the symptoms of fibroids.

Detoxifying the body: Detoxifying the body can help eliminate toxins that may contribute to the development of fibroids.

Improving gut health: The gut microbiome plays a role in almost every aspect of health, including hormone balance and inflammation. Taking probiotics and consuming fermented foods can help to improve gut health and reduce the risk of fibroids.

Discover the Power of Functional Medicine with Internal Healing & Wellness MD

Fibroids can be a frustrating and painful condition, but functional medicine can help. At Internal Healing & Wellness MD, we specialize in functional medicine and can help you identify your fibroids’ root cause. We create customized treatment plans that are tailored to your unique needs and goals.

As a leading functional medicine practitioner in the Woodlands, Texas region, Dr. Khan is passionate about helping patients achieve their optimal health. If you’re ready to take control of your health, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Contact us today to learn more about how functional medicine can help you heal your body from the inside out.