Many women suffering from fibroids are wondering:
“Can fibroids cause weight gain?
Uterine fibroids are benign (noncancerous) tumors that are commonly present in women; particularly women of color.
They are the most frequent cause of heavy periods, but they can cause other symptoms like pelvic pain or pressure, increased urinary frequency, or painful sex.
Related: Uterine Fibroid Symptoms Explained
Fibroids are often asymptomatic but over time these tumors will grow. The larger these fibroids become, the more likely they will cause symptoms.
Fibroids can grow to the size of a melon. Therefore women with fibroids often ask whether the fibroids will cause them to gain weight.
Fibroids And Weight Gain: Do Fibroids Cause Weight Gain?
There is no evidence that fibroids directly cause weight gain. Women with large fibroids; particularly if they’re in the front of the uterus will make her look like she has gained weight. But this is not the only point why fibroids and weight gain are related.
The enlarged belly may prompt people to ask if she is pregnant, when in reality she is not expecting.
Excessive weight leads to an increase in adipose tissue (aka body fat) which serves as a storage depot for estrogen. This increased estrogen causes fibroids to grow.
Another reason why weight gain can accompany uterine fibroids is due to anemia. Fibroids are the most common reason why women have heavy periods. These periods which are too heavy result in a significant loss of iron and hemoglobin which cannot be replaced by increasing her dietary consumption of iron rich foods.
If this continues to persist over time. the woman becomes weaker and weaker and the condition is called anemia. This fatigue often prevents the woman from exercise which will result in weight gain over time.
Increased anxiety and stress about her medical condition can also result in poor dietary habits which can result in weight gain as well.
Fibroids Symptoms: Weight Gain
To prevent growth of uterine fibroids healthy lifestyle is crucial.
- A woman’s diet should be balanced, contain vitamins and nutrients, protein, and limited amounts of sugar and fats. It is recommended to be on a low estrogen diet limiting carbohydrate foods, sodas, fried foods, smoked products, and high sodium foods. Increased consumption of green and red vegetables and fruits is highly recommended because they are rich in polyphenols that help balance hormone levels. Green tea is also a great source of polyphenols, antioxidants, and daily energy!
Healthy fibroid diet will allow your body to strengthen your immune system, lower body weight, and cope with uterine fibroids.
- Spending time outside matters. Long walks, regular exercise, and fresh air are key to good health.
- Avoid stress, it provokes weight gain. Meditate, engage in creative hobbies, spend time with friends and family to restore daily emotional balance.
FAQ About Fibroids And Weight Gain
• Can fibroids cause weight gain?
Yes. The more fibroids grow, the heavier their weight becomes. As a result, some of these fibroid nodes can weigh up to 20-40 pounds, which can make you feel a little heavier.
Although some fibroids can be very small, completely painless and asymptomatic, others grow large enough to cause swelling of the abdomen.
In addition, in combination with other fibroid symptoms, such as discomfort, anxiety and fatigue, fibroids can cause overeating foods that have a higher calorie content.
Unpleasant fibroid symptoms can also cause a decrease in physical activity, which is another factor that can lead to weight gain.
• How much weight can you gain from fibroids?
This factor is individual. Weight gain depends on the size of fibroids and a woman’s lifestyle, quality and amount of nutrition.
Moreover, it is not fibroids that cause weight gain more often, but being overweight is the cause of fibroid growth.
• Can losing weight help fibroids?
Many treatments for fibroids work by lowering estrogen levels. There are some ways to balance estrogen levels. And the main one is weight loss.
Obesity and overweight increase the risk of fibroids growth. Fat cells produce more estrogen, so weight loss can help prevent or slow the growth of fibroids.
Related Video: How UFE Procedure Works
If you suspect that you have uterine fibroids or have been struggling with fibroid symptoms, contact Dr. John Lipman of Atlanta Fibroid Center.
Today, there is no need to undergo invasive surgeries or suffer in silence waiting for menopause. UFE (uterine fibroid embolization) is a non-surgical, minimally invasive, outpatient procedure that will help you get your life back without losing your uterus.
You can defeat fibroids and be happy and healthy again!
