Best Weight Loss After Endometriosis Removal Choices for Fibroids: What to Eat and Avoid

September 13, 2025

Best Weight Loss After Endometriosis Removal Choices for Fibroids: What to Eat and Avoid

If you’ve recently had endometriosis removed and also live with (or are at risk for) uterine fibroids, your food choices can support healing, steady weight loss, and symptom control. While there’s no single “endometriosis or fibroid diet,” research-backed nutrition patterns can reduce inflammation, help manage hormones, and improve energy—especially if heavy periods or prior anemia have been an issue. Below is a practical, evidence-informed guide to what to eat and what to limit after surgery.

First, focus on healing—then sustainable weight loss

In the first 1–3 weeks after laparoscopic endometriosis surgery, the priority is tissue healing, bowel regularity, hydration, and gentle movement as your clinician allows. Pain medicines can slow the gut, so constipation prevention matters. Once your care team clears you for regular activity and normal meals, shift toward a modest calorie deficit (generally 300–500 calories/day) paired with a nutrient-dense pattern to support long-term weight loss and fibroid health.

Why weight management matters for fibroids

Excess body fat can increase estrogen exposure, and fibroids are sensitive to hormones. While weight loss won’t “treat” existing fibroids, achieving a healthy weight may help reduce symptoms and lower risk of growth over time. Several government and medical sources recommend whole-food patterns that emphasize plants, lean proteins, and limited processed foods for overall cardiometabolic and reproductive health.

What to eat: A plate that supports healing, hormones, and weight

1) Protein at every meal

Protein supports tissue repair post-surgery and helps you feel full during weight loss. Aim for 20–30 grams per meal from:

Fish, poultry, eggs
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese
Beans, lentils, tofu/tempeh
Nuts and seeds (watch portions)

Note on soy: Moderate whole-soy foods (tofu, edamame, tempeh) are generally safe for most people; soy isoflavones are plant compounds with mild estrogen-like activity, but current evidence does not show that typical dietary amounts worsen fibroids. If you have specific concerns or are on hormone therapy, ask your clinician.

2) Fiber-rich plants for estrogen balance and bowel regularity

Fiber helps promote healthy estrogen metabolism through the gut and prevents post-op constipation. Build half your plate from:

Vegetables and fruits (aim for a variety of colors)
Whole grains: oats, quinoa, brown rice, whole-wheat pasta
Legumes: lentils, chickpeas, black beans

Observational research suggests higher intake of green vegetables is associated with a lower risk of fibroids, while high intake of red and processed meats is associated with higher risk. A produce-forward pattern also supports weight loss by adding volume with fewer calories.

3) Anti-inflammatory fats

Choose unsaturated fats that support heart and metabolic health:

Olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds
Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, trout) for omega-3s 2 times/week

Limit butter, lard, and highly processed snack foods.

4) Iron and vitamin C if you have heavy periods

If fibroids cause heavy bleeding, iron status can drop. Include iron-rich foods and pair with vitamin C to enhance absorption:

Iron: lean red meat (in moderation), chicken thighs, shellfish, beans, lentils, fortified cereals, pumpkin seeds, spinach
Vitamin C: citrus, strawberries, kiwi, bell peppers, tomatoes

Ask your clinician before taking iron supplements; testing first helps you get the dose right.

5) Calcium and vitamin D for bone health if using hormone therapy

Some medications used before or after surgery to manage endometriosis or fibroids (such as GnRH agonists/antagonists) can affect bone density. Adequate calcium (1,000–1,200 mg/day from food and/or supplements) and vitamin D, as advised by your clinician, help protect bones.

6) Hydration and gut-friendly strategies

Drink plenty of water, especially while using pain medications. If your gut is sensitive right after surgery, start with softer foods (yogurt, smoothies, soups, well-cooked vegetables) and advance as tolerated. A diet pattern like DASH or Mediterranean—rich in plants, low in added sugars and sodium—has strong evidence for overall health and weight management.

Foods and habits to limit or avoid

Red and processed meats: Frequently eating beef, pork, lamb, and deli meats is associated with higher fibroid risk in observational studies. Choose fish, poultry, or legumes most of the time.
Added sugars and refined grains: Sodas, sweets, and white-flour products can drive excess calorie intake and blood sugar swings that make weight loss harder.
Ultra-processed snacks: Chips, pastries, and fast food tend to be calorie-dense and nutrient-poor.
High-sodium meals: Salt-retaining foods may worsen bloating; the DASH pattern caps sodium and emphasizes whole foods.
Alcohol: Adds empty calories and may worsen menstrual symptoms for some; limit or avoid while healing and during weight loss.
Supplements with bold claims: The FDA cautions that dietary supplements are not a substitute for medical treatment and may interact with medications. Discuss any supplement with your clinician.

Sample day of eating

This example fits a Mediterranean/DASH-style approach; adjust portions to your calorie needs.

Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with berries, chia seeds, and a sprinkle of oats; green tea
Lunch: Lentil and vegetable soup, side salad with olive oil–lemon dressing, whole-grain roll
Snack: Apple with 1–2 tablespoons peanut butter
Dinner: Baked salmon, quinoa, and a large serving of sautéed greens (spinach or kale) with garlic and olive oil
Optional dessert: Citrus slices or a small square of dark chocolate

Lifestyle add-ons that accelerate results

Gradual return to activity: Follow your surgeon’s instructions. Start with walking, then add light strength training when cleared. Physical activity improves weight loss maintenance and reduces visceral fat.
Portion awareness: Use the “half plate veggies, quarter protein, quarter whole grains” template. Track intake for 1–2 weeks to calibrate portions.
Sleep and stress: Poor sleep and high stress can raise appetite. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep and build stress-relief routines (breathing, yoga, short walks).

What about soy, dairy, and caffeine?

Soy: Typical intakes of whole soy foods are considered safe for most; if you prefer to limit, lean on other plant proteins like beans and lentils. Discuss if you’re on hormone therapy.
Dairy: Low-fat dairy can support protein and calcium needs. If dairy causes bloating, choose lactose-free or fortified plant alternatives.
Caffeine: Moderate intake (1–2 cups coffee or tea) is generally fine; avoid if it worsens cramps or sleep.

When to call your clinician

Persistent constipation, nausea, or inability to keep fluids down
Signs of anemia (fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness)
Rapid weight changes or difficulty losing weight despite consistent efforts
Considering supplements or major diet changes, especially if you take prescription medications

The bottom line

After endometriosis removal, center your diet on vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. This anti-inflammatory, high-fiber, lower-sugar pattern supports recovery and sustainable weight loss. For fibroid health, limit red and processed meats and prioritize green vegetables and whole foods. Pair smart nutrition with gradual activity, adequate sleep, and medical follow-up for the strongest results.

References and trusted resources

U.S. Office on Women’s Health: Endometriosis—Treatment. https://www.womenshealth.gov/endometriosis/treatment
U.S. Office on Women’s Health: Uterine Fibroids. https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/uterine-fibroids
NICHD (NIH): What are the risk factors for uterine fibroids? https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/uterine/conditioninfo/risk
NHLBI (NIH): DASH Eating Plan. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/dash-eating-plan
NIDDK (NIH): Healthy Eating & Physical Activity for Life. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/healthy-eating-physical-activity
ODS (NIH): Vitamin D Fact Sheet for Consumers. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-Consumer/
ODS (NIH): Iron Fact Sheet for Consumers. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-Consumer/
ODS (NIH): Soy Isoflavones—Fact Sheet. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/SoyIsoflavones-Consumer/
CDC: Physical Activity Basics. https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/index.htm
FDA: Using Dietary Supplements Wisely. https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements/using-dietary-supplements-wisely
MedlinePlus (NIH): Endometriosis—Treatment and Management. https://medlineplus.gov/endometriosis.html
NIDDK (NIH): Constipation. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/constipation