Preventing and Treating Uterine Fibroids? This Kit is Designed to Help

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are the most common benign tumors found in the uterus. While often overlooked, these hormonally responsive growths can significantly impact a woman's health, particularly during her reproductive years. This article aims to shed light on uterine fibroids, their prevalence, and the importance of awareness for women's health and wellness.

Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop from the muscle tissue of the uterus. They originate from the clonal expansion of a single cell in the myometrium (the muscular layer of the uterus). Due to their hormonally responsive nature, fibroids primarily affect women during their reproductive years, rarely appearing before menarche and typically regressing after menopause.

Key Characteristics

• Benign Tumors: Fibroids are non-cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the body.

• Hormonal Influence: They grow in response to estrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle.

• Varied Symptoms: While some women experience severe symptoms, others may remain asymptomatic throughout their lives.

Prevalence and Epidemiology

The prevalence of uterine fibroids has often been underestimated due to a focus on symptomatic cases, leaving a substantial number of asymptomatic women unaccounted for. Recent studies have shown that fibroids are far more common than previously thought. In the United States, ultrasound screenings reveal that over 80% of women of African ancestry and nearly 70% of white women have fibroids by age 50 (1).

Symptoms and Impact

The symptoms and impact of fibroids can vary widely among women. Some common symptoms include:

• Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: This can lead to anemia and fatigue.

• Pelvic Pain and Pressure: Discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis.

• Frequent Urination: Pressure on the bladder can cause increased frequency.

• Reproductive Issues: Fibroids can sometimes interfere with fertility and pregnancy.

Dr. Edward Bauman, founder and director of the Institute for Educational Therapy based in Cotati, California, provides specialized training for nutritionists and culinary arts professionals, focusing on identifying and utilizing foods for their healing properties. According to Dr. Bauman, thyroid disease isn't caused by a single toxin, nutritional deficiency, or pathogen. Instead, it often results from various factors like environmental exposures, pesticides, chemicals, and nutrient deficiencies due to poor diet or toxic overload.

Dr. Bauman also stresses that there’s no quick fix for thyroid problems—no single food, supplement, or detox will solve it. The key is finding a balance among different approaches, which can be challenging to do alone. He recommends working with a knowledgeable practitioner, such as a nutritionist, holistic doctor, or naturopath, to manage thyroid issues. Dr. Bauman himself offers nutritional consultations and notes that it can take three to six months to resolve thyroid problems.

While Dr. Bauman primarily uses nutritional solutions, he isn't opposed to thyroid medications and often collaborates with patients on hormone replacement therapy. Many patients start with nutrient support and later decide whether to reduce their medication dosage.

Dr. Bauman categorizes thyroid issues into three stages:

1. The thyroid gland can't produce sufficient hormones.
2. The gland produces hormones, but there's an impaired conversion from T4 to T3.
3. The gland produces and converts hormones, but the immune system can't utilize them due to "receptor site problems," similar to insulin resistance.

Nutritionally, Dr. Bauman focuses on supporting hormone production, improving T4 to T3 conversion, and reducing receptor site resistance. He identifies toxins and dietary factors that affect thyroid function and has specific guidelines for managing these issues.

What to Avoid

Studies have found increases in fibroids to be caused by environmental toxins, specifically:

• Phthalates
• Industrial chemicals in packaging materials, plastic wraps, and food items in plastic
• Cosmetics with plastic in them

Research also shows that consuming too many refined carbohydrates and sugary foods can worsen fibroids (2). These foods spike blood sugar levels, leading to excess insulin production. To help manage fibroids, avoid these refined carbs:

• White rice, pasta, and flour
• Soda and sugary drinks
• Corn syrup
• Boxed cereals
• Baked goods (cakes, cookies, doughnuts)
• Chips
• Crackers

Avoid Aspartame

Dr. Bauman warns against aspartame (Nutrasweet), linking it to thyroid health problems, including hyperthyroidism. Aspartame breaks down into harmful components like phenylalanine, aspartic acid, and methanol, which convert into the toxin formaldehyde in the body.

Detoxify Mercury and Metals

Mercury toxicity is a significant concern for Dr. Bauman, particularly from dental fillings. He believes detoxification through nutrients and herbs can normalize thyroid function better than conventional treatments alone. However, this viewpoint is controversial, with differing opinions on the impact of mercury fillings on health.

Stabilize Adrenal Function

Proper adrenal function is crucial for thyroid health, especially during hormonal changes like puberty and menopause. Some practitioners, such as Dr. Barry J Durrant-Peatfield, suggest addressing adrenal insufficiencies before resolving thyroid issues.

Use Hormone-Free Meats

Dr. Bauman advises consuming organic meats to avoid hormones in the food chain that can disrupt the body's natural hormone production. 

Avoid Iodized Salt

Commercial iodized salt contains stabilizers like aluminum and sugar, which Dr. Bauman believes can irritate the thyroid and create imbalances.

Mainstream Medical Options

One of the most promising pharamaceutical treatments for fibroids are selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) and anti-progestins. Drugs like Ulipristal have been shown to inhibit proliferation, induce apoptosis, and thin the endometrial lining, shrinking fibroids by as much as 25-50%. However, they are not approved for use yet in the U.S. due to concerns over very rare cases of liver toxicity.

In the U.S. the medical establishment pushes progesterone-only treatments. Oral progestin, however, may cause adverse effects such as gastrointestinal distress, irregular bleeding, breast pain, and alterations in mood (1).

Natural Alternatives

In many cases, natural alternatives have been shown to work better than their synthetic, or convention counterparts. Naturopaths might prescribe bioidentical hormone therapy with natural progesterone in a cream form. This method allows for quick absorption, with the body recognizing it as the same biochemical structure produced after ovulation each cycle.  Some might believe that progestins in HRT and birth control are identical to natural progesterone, but they are not. Progestins can cause serious side effects, whereas applying natural progesterone simply supplements the body's own levels. It's essential to address the body holistically, considering how interconnected everything is. 

Dr. Bauman has shed light on a fascinating insight – our thyroid often struggles with buildup issues, leading to what he vividly describes as a "bottleneck around the gland." The thrilling solution? A gentle yet profoundly effective massage of the thyroid and lymphatic system! This not only promises relief but beckons a path towards rejuvenation, helping to clear away the unwanted congestion.

Sean Riehl, not just an author but the mastermind behind "Lymphatic Drainage" and the pioneering spirit of Real Bodywork, offers a treasure trove of wisdom. And  Mario-Paul Cassar's "Massage for Detoxification" stands as a beacon for those seeking to cleanse and refresh their bodies.

Over years of research, multiple nutrient deficiencies and industrial toxins have been found to be most highly associated with fibroid tumors. This is why we designed the following supplement regimen for assistance with this disease.

Self Health Resource Center’s Solution – A Dr. Clark Store Kit

• Lugol’s Iodine intake, Experience optimal health with 25-30 mg daily as recommended by Dr. Brownstein. Shrink fibroids naturally.*   
• Vitamin D has been shown promise for helping reduce fibroid tumors.*
• Vitamin C – your daily dose of immunity and detoxification.*
• Magnesium Citrate for nerve relaxation and metabolic health – essential for stress relief*
• Selenium – a powerful antioxidant and important detoxification co-factor*
• Zinc for overall immune and metabolic function*
• Replenish vital trace nutrients with Celtic Salt – electrolytes in every pinch*
• Green tea. A bioflavonoid in green tea called EGCG*

*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness. 

 

Sources

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG practice bulletin. Alternatives to hysterectomy in the management of leiomyomas. Obstet Gynecol. 2008;112(2 Pt 1):387-400

2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521693417301372