Fibroids and Red Light Therapy
Understanding Fibroids: What They Are, Who Gets Them, and How Red Light Therapy Can Help
Hi there,
Today, let’s talk about fibroids—what they are, who gets them, and how red light therapy can be a game-changer in managing them. Fibroids are a common health concern for many women, but with the right information and tools, you can navigate this condition with confidence. Anedotally I’ve heard from several biohackers who found red light therapy reduced the size of their fibroids over several months.
What Are Fibroids?
Fibroids, also known as uterine fibroids or leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or on the uterus. They vary in size from tiny, almost undetectable lumps to large masses that can distort the shape of the uterus. While fibroids are generally benign, they can sometimes cause discomfort and other health issues. Research suggests fibroids share similarities with other metabolic disorders such as high blood pressure. This is why red light therapy and other lifestyle modifications can be so effective - and have no negative side effects.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18230910/
Who Gets Fibroids?
Fibroids are quite common, especially among women of reproductive age. Here are some key points about who is more likely to develop fibroids:
Age: Women between the ages of 30 and 50 are most commonly affected.
Family History: If your mother or sister had fibroids, your risk is higher.
Ethnicity: African-American women are more likely to develop fibroids and may experience them at a younger age and with more severe symptoms.
Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate your menstrual cycle, seem to promote the growth of fibroids. Fibroids tend to shrink after menopause due to a decrease in hormone production.
Lifestyle Factors: Being overweight and consuming a diet high in red meat and low in green vegetables, fruit, and dairy may increase the risk.
Common Symptoms of Fibroids
While some women with fibroids experience no symptoms at all, others may have:
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Prolonged periods
Pelvic pain or pressure
Frequent urination
Difficulty emptying the bladder
Constipation
Back or leg pain
How Red Light Therapy Can Help
Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), involves using red or near-infrared light to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. Here’s how it can help manage fibroids:
Reducing Inflammation: Red light therapy helps reduce inflammation, which can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with fibroids.
Improving Blood Flow & Lymph Drainage: Enhanced blood circulation can help shrink fibroids and reduce symptoms by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the affected area and removing waste products more efficiently.
Promoting Cellular Repair: Red light therapy stimulates cellular repair and regeneration, which can aid in reducing the size of fibroids over time.
Hormonal Balance: While more research is needed, some studies suggest that red light therapy may help regulate hormonal imbalances, which could potentially slow the growth of fibroids.
A Holistic Approach to Managing Fibroids
In addition to red light therapy, consider these lifestyle changes to help manage fibroids:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help regulate hormones and reduce fibroid growth.
Eat a Fibroid-Friendly Diet: Focus on a diet rich in healthy fats, vegetables, and proteins and avoid highly processed foods and sugar. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cauliflower, are particularly beneficial in the prevention of UFs. These vegetables contain natural compounds known as indoles, which have been found to help balance estrogen levels in the body
Manage Stress: Techniques like yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help keep stress levels in check, which is beneficial for overall hormonal balance and cellular metabolism.
Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss the best strategies for your unique circumstances. You’ve got this!
Tracy
