There is an obesity epidemic in America. Along with obesity, there is also an increase in ovarian cysts and ovarian cancer. Women who develop ovarian cysts after menopause are often at increased risk of ovarian cancer. This is because
to higher amounts of “bad estrogen” known as estradiol. Although the general levels of all estrogens are low, the balance between the “good” estrogens (estriol) and the bad ones is usually not optimal.

Is there a connection between being overweight and having ovarian cysts? How can obesity influence the body to produce ovarian cysts or aggravate them? The answer to the above question is a resounding yes.

Many years ago, science thought that fat was just a layer of fat that accumulated under our skin. In other words, the fat was fat, and other than making us look ugly, it doesn’t really have any other effect on the body.

Today science has discovered that adipose tissue (fat) can be classified as an organ or a functional tissue. In simple words, fat has many functions and produces different chemicals that affect the body in many ways.

An example would be diabetics who often develop fatty liver. Fatty liver will occasionally lead to cirrhosis of the liver and sometimes liver cancer. Why? Because fatty tissue produces chemicals that cause inflammation. Constant inflammation damages tissues (cirrhosis) and can lead to cancer.

Fat tissue is also known to produce various hormones, especially estrogen. So this is connection. Excess fatty tissue will produce hormones and stimulate ovarian cysts, fibroids, fibrocystic disease, endometriosis, etc.

Another important correlation between obesity and ovarian cysts is that dietary and lifestyle habits in people who are overweight are often predisposing factors for ovarian cysts.

Therefore, by avoiding lifestyle habits that promote too much weight, ovarian cysts can also be prevented. Habits like:
1. Lack of exercise
2. Too many calories in the diet
3. Low fiber diet
4. Low consumption of fruits and vegetables, especially from the cabbage family

Lack of exercise and low fiber in the diet increase estrogen levels. Many fruits and vegetables interfere with or prevent excess estrogen from stimulating the ovaries. Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are the main ones. They are also rich in fiber and nutrients.

Adding 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed to the diet can also help regulate the body’s hormonal system.

Conclusion: Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding lifestyle habits that predispose to weight gain can be an important step in the prevention and cure of ovarian cysts.