Fibroids are noncancerous growths that happen in or around the uterus. They are also called uterine leiomyomas or myomas. They are common in women, and about 70–80% of women have them by the time they are 50. The size of a fibroid can range from that of a pea to that of a grapefruit.
Even though most women with fibroids don’t have any symptoms, some may have heavy menstrual bleeding, long periods, pelvic pain, the need to urinate often, and trouble getting pregnant.
What causes fibroids and how they show up
Fibroids still don’t have a clear cause, but they are thought to grow from smooth muscle cells in the uterus. Fibroids are more likely to happen as you get older, if you are overweight, or if your hormones aren’t balanced. The symptoms of fibroids depend on how big and where the growths are. Some of the most common signs of fibroids are:
- Heavy bleeding during periods
- Long time spans
- Pelvic pain
- Frequent urination
- Constipation
- Back pain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
Treatment options for fibroids
Fibroids can be treated in a number of ways, such as with medicine, surgery, or natural remedies. The best treatment depends on the size, location, and severity of the fibroids, as well as the woman’s age and overall health.
Fibroid symptoms can be treated with medicines like birth control pills, hormone therapy, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Surgery, like myomectomy or hysterectomy, may be suggested for women with large or multiple fibroids, severe symptoms, or problems getting pregnant. Fibroid symptoms can also be treated with natural remedies like diet, exercise, and herbal supplements.
What is plantain?
Plantain is a starchy fruit that grows in tropical areas like Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It is also called cooking plantain. It is related to bananas, but it is bigger, harder, and not as sweet as bananas. Most of the time, plantains are cooked. They can be boiled, fried, or baked. It is used in many dishes around the world and is full of good things for you, like vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber.
What plantain can do for your health
Plantain is a fruit that is full of nutrients and has many health benefits. One cup (148 grams) of sliced plantain has the following:
- Calories: 181
- Protein: 2 grams
- Fat: 0.6 grams
- Carbohydrates: 48 grams
- Fiber: 4.6 grams
- Vitamin A: 17% of the daily value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 25% of the DV
- Potassium: 14% of the DV
- Magnesium: 6% of the DV
- Iron: 2% of the DV
Health benefits of plantain
Plantain is a great addition to any diet because it is good for your health in many ways. Some of the advantages are:
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1. Good for the digestive system
Plantains have a lot of fiber, which is important for healthy digestion. Fiber helps keep your bowels moving, keeps you from getting constipated, and helps healthy gut bacteria grow. Also, plantain has something called resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic and helps feed the good bacteria in the gut.
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2. Makes the immune system stronger
Plantain is a great source of vitamin C, which is important for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps the body make more white blood cells, which are very important for fighting off diseases and infections.
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3. Regulates blood sugar levels
Plantains have a lot of resistant starch, which helps control blood sugar levels. Resistant starch is a type of fiber that doesn’t get broken down in the small intestine. This can help lower the risk of getting type 2 diabetes.
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4. Helps keep the heart healthy
Potassium, which is important for a healthy heart, can be found in plantains. Potassium can help control blood pressure and lower the chance of getting heart disease.
Can plantain shrink fibroids?
There isn’t much scientific evidence to show that plantain can make fibroids smaller. Some studies, though, suggest that plantain may have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties that could help shrink fibroids and ease their symptoms. Plantain is also full of nutrients that can help improve overall health and wellness, which could help women with fibroids.
How to eat plantain to get rid of fibroids
Plantains can be eaten boiled, fried, or baked, among other ways. Plantain should be part of a healthy, balanced diet that is high in nutrients and low in processed foods if you have fibroids. Plantain can also be taken as a herbal supplement, which you can find in health food stores or online.
What to watch out for when using plantain to treat fibroids
Even though plantain is usually safe to eat, there are some things to watch out for when using it to treat fibroids. First, you should talk to a doctor before using any natural remedies for fibroids, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medicine. Also, it’s important to eat plantain in moderation, since too much of it can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
What plantain does to your body
Plantain is generally safe to eat, and most people can handle it well. But there may be side effects for some people, such as:
- Allergic reactions
- Digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea
- Increased blood sugar levels
If plantain makes you feel bad, you should stop using it and talk to a doctor.
Plantain vs. other natural treatments for fibroids
Plantain is one of many natural remedies that can be used to treat the symptoms of fibroids. Other natural ways to treat fibroids are:
Red Raspberry Leaf Black Cohosh Dong Quai Milk Thistle Vitex (Chaste Tree Berry)
Each of these natural remedies has its own benefits and risks, and the person’s preferences and medical history will help them decide which one to use. Before you try any natural treatment for fibroids, you should talk to a doctor or nurse.
ALSO SEE: Is Groundnut Good for Fibroid Patient?
FAQs
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Can fibroids be cured by plantain?
Fibroids can’t be cured, but natural remedies like plantain may be able to help reduce their size and symptoms.
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How often should I eat plantain if I want to get rid of fibroids?
There is no specific amount of plantain that should be eaten to treat fibroids. Plantain is an important part of a healthy, well-balanced diet.
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Can you get sick from eating plantain?
Some people may be allergic to plantain, which can make them itch, get hives, or have trouble breathing.
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Can I take supplements made from plantain to treat fibroids?
You can find plantain supplements in health food stores or online, but you should talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
Is there anything that you shouldn’t take with plantain?
Plantain may interact with some medications, so if you are taking any medications, you should talk to a doctor before using plantain.
Conclusion
Plantain is a healthy food that can be used in many different ways. It can be a good addition to a healthy diet. Even though there isn’t much scientific evidence to support the claim that plantain can shrink fibroids, its anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties may help to reduce the size and symptoms of fibroids.
But you should only eat a small amount of plantain at a time and talk to a doctor before using any natural remedies for fibroids.