Uterine fibroids are benign tumors in the uterus that can cause pelvic pain and pressure, abnormal bleeding, and, in extreme cases, infertility. Affecting upwards of 70 percent of reproductive-age women, conventional medicine offers few noninvasive treatments.
But research continues to prove that several natural remedies not only shrink these fibroids, but also offer pain relief and reduction of other bothersome side effects.
Green Tea to the Rescue
In a recent trial, researchers examined the safety and efficacy of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) extract in women with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Over a four-month period, the women who received 800 mg of this green tea extract (standardized to 45 percent EGCG) had reductions in fibroid size, decreased symptom severity, and significantly less bleeding. The placebo group, on the other hand, experienced fibroid growth. No adverse effects were noted in either group. Look for standardized green tea supplements online or in health food stores and use as directed.
Defeat Fibroids With Vitamin D
Researchers at the National Institutes of Health concluded a study that found women with sufficient levels of vitamin D were 32 percent less likely to develop fibroids than women with insufficient amounts (which they defined as less than 20 ng/mL). They also found that women who spent more than one hour outside per day had a full 40 percent lower risk of fibroids compared with women who had less sun exposure. And the benefits don’t end there—animal studies suggest that vitamin D supplements can actually help shrink existing fibroids.
Most vitamin D experts agree that a vitamin D3 intake of 2,000-5,000 IU per day is necessary to obtain the optimal blood level of 50–80 ng/mL. I recommend that you take this amount for three months, have your vitamin D blood level tested, and increase or reduce your dose to keep your level in the target range. And get a dose of sunshine. Fair-skinned people should aim for about 15 minutes of unprotected sun exposure during midday, while people with darker skin need a bit more.
Weight Loss & Natural Hormones: The Dynamic Duo
If you want to curb fibroid growth, you need to maintain a healthy weight. Fibroid growth is fueled by estrogen, which is produced in fat cells as well as in the ovaries, so reducing your body fat can help reduce estrogen levels.
You may also want to consider natural progesterone therapy. Progesterone acts as a sort of anti-estrogen, balancing its proliferative effects. Ask your doctor to prescribe natural progesterone (not synthetic progestins), or try natural progesterone cream, available without a prescription. If your doctor isn’t open to prescribing natural hormones, make an appointment at the clinic by calling the number below.
Try Evening Primrose Oil
My final natural treatment recommendation for fibroids is evening primrose oil. Evening primrose oil has been shown in studies to help shrink fibroids; the recommended dose is 1,500 mg twice a day. This supplement is widely available in health food stores and online.
And ladies, if your doctor recommends surgery, think twice before considering a hysterectomy. Safer, less invasive alternatives include laparoscopic or laser removal of fibroids, both of which preserve the uterus.
To learn more about the safe, natural therapies we use at Whitaker Wellness, call (866) 944-8253 or click below to Contact Us or schedule your Complimentary Consultation.
