After my surgery in 2018, I was hoping never to have to write another personal story about fibroids again. But here we are. For the last five months, I've been having a period every two weeks, and for some reason, I thought it would just go away. Fast forward, I have a new doctor—a Black woman—and underwent a series of tests that told me what I already knew: I have a new fibroid smack dab in my uterus.
Thinking back on the years since I had my laparoscopic myomectomy, the changes I swore to make to my diet just didn't happen. Not saying that's the total cause of this new fibroid, but one sure thing is our diets have a lot to do with our overall health. And the pandemic didn't do my eating habits any favors. So with this news, I'm making small but impactful changes to my diet based on research I've done.
Keep reading to learn more about the small changes I'm making that I hope will impact my overall and reproductive health.
Golde Original Turmeric Superfood Latte Blend
Golde
Inflammation in the body can cause all types of issues, and one thing that is clinically proven to help is the curcumin in turmeric. I used to try to whip up my own turmeric concoction until I found this superfood blend from the Black-owned wellness brand Golde that is made with organic turmeric and ginger. I've added this to my nightly routine, and I can report anecdotally that it's helped with my cramps and gives me a better night's rest.
Retrospec Beaumont Step Through 7-Speed City Bike
Retrospec
You might be wondering why a bike is on this list, but let me explain. Because I work from home, movement is a much-needed part of my life, even on days when I don't want to move. Additionally, excess weight can increase the risk for fibroids because fat cells produce more estrogen. Research also links high blood pressure and the lack of vitamin D to fibroids. So biking helps me get some sun, fresh air, and exercise while keeping my blood pressure and weight in check.
Oster Versa Professional Power Blender
Oster Versa
Getting enough veggies isn't always the easiest thing for me, but now I can dump all my spinach and fruit into one place and blend it into a smoothie. My recent test results show that I'm anemic again, so getting iron from spinach and leafy greens is important. And vitamins and minerals from fruits and veggies are impactful for hormone balancing.
BLK & Bold Matcha Powder
BLK & Bold
Green tea is small but mighty, and studies prove it. A study done at Meharry Medical College found that the bioflavonoid in green tea called EGCG could help reduce the size and number of fibroids. Matcha and green tea bags are already in my cabinets, but I can't say I've done a great job drinking daily. Now, I am making it a point to have matcha each morning. For sweetness without refined sugar, I add Zoe and Zach's Wildflower Honey with Lavender.
Aroma ARC-914SBD Digital Rice Cooker
Aroma
These days, I'm giving up take-out and leaning into cooking my meals at home. My cabinets are now full of organic oats, beans, and brown rice. Because I'm more of an "it needs to take less than 20 minutes" at-home chef, rice bowls are my go-to. And having a rice cooker on hand has made putting my rice bowls together a breeze. I load my brown rice up with organic sweet potatoes, black beans, corn, and any other veggie I'm craving for lunch and dinner. I know that may sound boring, but for now, that's what I'm committing to ensure I'm doing my part.
KIND Dark Chocolate Protein Granola
KIND
Sugar is my weakness. And refined sugar is not good for inflammation. Giving up sugar is a slow grind, but one thing I've found helps is granola. I love this one from KIND because it has protein that helps curb cravings and isn't loaded with sugar. I also realize that I love food with a crunch, so I run to this when I feel myself craving sugar, potato chips, or any sweet dessert I can order to my door.
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Psychologist Debbie Sorensen explained to CNBC why women and millennials are experiencing burnout in higher numbers. “We haven’t had time to recover from the trauma of what we’ve been through the last few years,” she said. “Women and young people, in particular, are putting an immense amount of pressure on themselves to keep going, keep working, no matter the cost.”
As women, particularly Black women, we tend to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders. Other people's problems become our problems, and then we are expected to show up to work and show up for our family and friends with a smile on our faces. Whew, chile! What if we are having a bad day? How are we supposed to cope if we have to be everything to everyone? Well, here’s your sign to make time for yourself, especially on the days when you are feeling down.
Below is a list of self-care ideas for when you are having a bad day.
Mapodile/ Getty Images
Spend time in nature
Sometimes something as simple as surrounding yourself with trees, grass, and/ or water can improve your mood exponentially. The American Psychological Association’s (APA) research shows that spending time in nature can improve attention, lower stress, and reduce the risk of psychiatric disorders.
Got to a Spa
There’s nothing like going to a spa. You can relax in a sauna, get a massage, and just be. According to research, massages help release serotonin and dopamine, which are often referred to as “feel good” hormones, that will instantly perk you up and have you going about your day with a smile on your face.
Get Artsy
When was the last time you did arts and crafts? Drawing a picture, painting, or even coloring can help you discover your inner child, thus boosting your mood. Purchase an adult coloring book, or go to a paint-and-sip class by yourself, or you can make it a group activity and bring your besties.
Look your best
The old saying, “When you look good, you feel good,” didn’t just come out of thin air. There’s some truth to it. The Kentucky Counseling Center shared a link between self-care and feeling good. “Self-care regimens are extremely important not just to stabilize your day but to make you feel great. Simple things like getting a facial, taking care of your hair done, or exercising can make you confident because when you look good, you also feel good,” according to its website.
Dragana991/ Getty Images
Breathwork
There’s a reason why it is suggested that you breathe when you begin feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Breathing brings oxygen back into your body, and WebMD reports that it can decrease the fight or flight response that happens when you are stressed.
Spend time with babies
I don’t know about you, but nothing makes me smile quicker than a baby, especially a smiling baby. If you’re the same way, then spending time with a baby or babies may help put you in a better mood, too.
Do nothing
Last but certainly not least, do nothing. There’s nothing like laying in your bed and not being forced to do anything. Stay in this moment and use this time to relax and replenish your energy.
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