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Uterine fibroids can be very troublesome at times. They can give rise to pain in lower abdomen, associated with an abnormally high bleeding during the periods. At times, they may become so large so as to complicate pregnancy. It has been seen that black women are more likely to develop fibroids compared to white women. It is difficult to predict who is at an increased risk of developing fibroids. Researchers have tried in the past to associate its development with the food habits of the patients. Now, a recent study, published in the December issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has found a link between a reduced intake of fruit in the diet and increased risk of developing fibroids.

 

The researchers, led by Dr. Lauren Wise from the Boston University, examined 22,583 women who developed uterine fibroid between 1997 and 2009. The women were asked to fill up questionnaires pertaining to their dietary habits. The researchers noticed that consumption of at least four servings of fruits and vegetables everyday was associated with 10% less likelihood of developing fibroids compared to women who had only one serving of fruits and vegetables per day. The researchers found that increased intake of vitamin A is also associated with a reduced incidence of uterine fibroids. However, they could not establish a definite link between fibroids and the consumption of vitamin C, vitamin E, folates or fibers.

 

Although the researchers are not very sure of the mechanism by which fruits reduce the incidence of fibroids, it is believed that they are able to do so by the virtue of the antioxidants present in them which alter the action of estrogen on the body. Everyone knows about the advantages of making fruits a part of our diet. Now, there is one more reason, why women should consume more fruits.

 

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