Can I eat donkey-hide gelatin (Ajiao) if I have uterine fibroids?
Disease description:
I was recently diagnosed with uterine fibroids. My doctor said that surgery isn't necessary at this stage, but if the fibroids grow larger, surgery might be required, possibly including hysterectomy. I would like to know whether it's safe for me to consume donkey-hide gelatin (Ajiao) with uterine fibroids.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Patients with uterine fibroids can generally consume donkey-hide gelatin (Ajiao), but should do so in moderation and under medical supervision. As a traditional Chinese medicine, Ajiao has various therapeutic effects, including nourishing the blood, stopping bleeding, and moistening dryness while enriching yin. For patients with uterine fibroids, its blood-nourishing properties can effectively improve anemia caused by prolonged heavy menstrual bleeding. Meanwhile, its function of nourishing yin and moistening dryness may also relieve symptoms such as dry mouth, thirst, soreness in the lower back and knees due to liver and kidney yin deficiency. However, Ajiao contains certain estrogen-like components and coagulating substances; excessive consumption might stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids. Therefore, patients should use Ajiao in moderation and avoid overconsumption. Additionally, because Ajiao is high in sugar and calories, excessive intake may lead to adverse effects such as weight gain.
