A lot of women go through uterine fibroids in their reproductive years, that though benign, can cause issues such as pain, irregular menstruation, and irregular periods. However, new research now says that there can be a link between vitamin D deficiency and the development and growth of these fibroids? Let’s dig deeper into understanding this condition…
What are Uterine fibroids?
Uterine fibroids, medically known as leiomyomas or myomas, are non-cancerous (benign) growths that start developing from the smooth muscle cells of the uterus. They can be sudden or spread over time, and can be big, or small, vary in number, and cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and fertility problems. Fibroids are the leading cause of hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus) in many countries, even in women of child bearing age, often leaving women unable to have a baby naturally.
The Role of Vitamin D in the Body
Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine vitamin, is one of the most vital nutrients that the body needs to absorb calcium, support bone health, build up immunity, and others. It is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight, and can also be obtained from certain foods (such as oily fish, egg yolks, fortified foods etc) and supplements. However, many people, especially women, have low vitamin D levels due to limited sun exposure, indoor activities, poor diet, and other factors.
Vitamin D Deficiency and fibroids
Studies has shown that women with uterine fibroids tend to have significantly lower levels of vitamin D compared to women without fibroids. Not only is vitamin D deficiency more common in women with fibroids, but the severity of deficiency also has a connection with a larger fibroid size. (low Vitamin D = larger fibroid size)
Regulates cell growth
For those wondering what is the connection, here is it. According to scientists, Vitamin D helps regulate cell growth and prevents excessive proliferation of uterine muscle cells. When vitamin D levels are low, this process weakens, allowing fibroids to grow rapidly. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that vitamin D can reduce fibroid cell growth and shrink tumors in animal models.
More Harmful Than We Think
The link between vitamin D deficiency and fibroids is worrying, because fibroids affect a large number of women, and vitamin D deficiency is widespread. Women with darker skin, such as African American women, (even Indian to a large extent) are at higher risk for both vitamin D deficiency and fibroids, which may explain why fibroids are more common and severe in this group.