This is where abnormal cells (pre-cancerous or cancerous) grow on the cervix which is the area between the uterus and the vagina. Interestingly, there are no symptoms so testing has to be relied on to diagnose and determine the classification of dysplasia as low or high grade depending on the degree of abnormality of the cells. LSIL or low grade squamous intraepithelial lesions progresses slowly and resolves themselves without treatment. HSIL or high grade squamous intraepithelial lesions are more aggressive and can lead to cancer.

This condition is heavily associated with the human papillomavirus or HPV which is said to affect about 70% of women during their lifetime. Thankfully, their immune system is able to keep it in check so that there are more cases of cervical dysplasia than outright cervical cancer. Some of the causes identified are obesity, oral contraceptives, poor diet: having low consumption of fruits and vegetables, hormone imbalance, and an overall weak immune system.

Foods high in carotenoids are recommended as they help to prevent HPV. These include carrots, cantaloupe, watermelon, peaches, corn, and yellow squash. Daily intake of cruciferous vegetable such as cabbage, broccoli, kale, and cauliflower help to normalise oestrogen metabolism and they also have anticancer properties. Inclusion of a 5-7 day vegetable and/or juice fast can go a long way in improving immunity and removing toxins that can worsen dysplasia.

At A Glance

Causes: this condition can be caused by obesity, weak immunity that allow the HPV to replicate, smoking, hormone imbalance, oral contraceptives, poor diet, chlamydia infection, HIV infection, and multiple male partners.

Treatment: a diet rich in fruits and vegetables will provide the client with a good source of carotenoids which may help to prevent HPV, and naturally occurring vitamin E compounds which help prevent cervical dysplasia.

Prevention: avoidance of simple sugars such as processed grains, soda, and undiluted fruit juice, as well as fried and processed foods.