6 FOODS THAT MAY HELP EASE UTERINE FIBROID SYMPTOMS
Medically reviewed by Karina Tolentino, RD
Your diet may influence uterine fibroid symptoms more than you realize. Foods rich in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and iron may help support symptom management.
1. Foods Rich in Fiber
Eating a high-fiber diet may reduce the risk of uterine fibroids. Fiber is a plant-based carbohydrate with several health benefits, including lower cholesterol and improved digestion. A review found that fiber may lower the risk of fibroids by regulating hormone levels and metabolism.
Eating more fiber can help you feel full, which may lower the risk of obesity. Foods rich in fiber include:
- High-fiber breakfast cereal
- Beans (lima, white, navy, pinto, soy)
- Artichoke
- Green peas
- Lentils
- Broccoli
- Fruit (raspberries, blackberries, kiwi, pear)
- Popcorn
- Bulgar, spelt
2. Foods Rich in Vitamin D
Eating a diet rich in vitamin D may improve uterine fibroid symptoms and even lower the risk of developing them. A vitamin D deficiency is a known risk factor for uterine fibroids.
This fat-soluble vitamin supports cell health and may reduce the risk of developing uterine fibroids. Foods high in vitamin D include:
- Cod liver oil
- Fish (trout, salmon, sardines, tuna)
- Vegetables (mushrooms, broccoli, carrots)
- Milk, plant-based milks
- Fortified cereals
- Eggs, cheese
- Beef liver
- Chicken breast
- Ground beef
- Almonds
- Fruit (apples, bananas)
3. Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats linked with several health benefits, including improved heart health and lower inflammation. People with uterine fibroids tend to suffer from chronic inflammation. Eating a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may reduce overall inflammation and lower the risk of developing fibroids.
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include:
- Salmon
- Mackerel
- Sardines
- Flaxseed
- Chia seeds
- Walnuts
4. Low-Fat Dairy Products
Eating a diet rich in calcium from low-fat dairy products may reduce the risk of uterine fibroids. It’s important to note that research has found that eating full-fat dairy products could make fibroids worse.
To get the calcium benefits without the excess fat, focus on adding the following types of dairy to your diet:
- Skim milk
- Low-fat cheese
- Unflavored, low-fat, and Greek yogurts
- Reduced-fat cottage cheese
5. Foods Rich in Iron
Uterine fibroids can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, putting you at risk of fibroid-induced anemia. To prevent this complication, add iron-rich foods to your diet.
Research found that iron deficiency can worsen fibroids. Foods rich in iron include:
- Dried beans
- Egg yolks
- Dried fruits (prunes, raisins, and apricots)
- Liver
- Lean red meat
- Oysters
- Dark meat poultry
- Salmon, tuna
- Whole grains
- Nuts (Brazil nuts, almonds)
- Vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli)
6. Green Tea
Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a plant compound that lowers inflammation and reduces estrogen levels.
Because high estrogen levels can promote fibroid growth, adding green tea to your diet may help. A study found that regularly drinking green tea may slow the growth of fibroids.
Foods to Limit or Avoid With Uterine Fibroids
While foods like leafy greens and fatty fish can improve uterine fibroid symptoms, others can worsen them. Eating a diet rich in certain foods can raise your risk of uterine fibroids and make symptoms feel worse.
To improve your uterine fibroid symptoms, avoid or limit the following foods:
- Added sugars: Consuming sweets and processed foods can spike blood sugar levels and promote fibroid growth.
- Foods that mimic estrogen: Foods that contain compounds that mimic estrogen in the body may raise the risk of uterine fibroids. Examples include red meat, soy beans, soy milk, tofu, and foods rich in unsaturated fats.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol use is a risk factor for uterine fibroids. Alcohol affects hormone levels.
Read the original article on Verywell Health
2026-07-07T15:03:37Z
