Endometriosis is a chronic condition where cells that resemble the uterus lining, called endometrial cells, grow outside the uterus. It is a common yet widely under-recognised condition affecting more than 10% of women, usually within their reproductive years.
It is often a painful disorder that takes place primarily in the pelvic area. The symptoms of the condition tend to be worse around menstruation. Signs and symptoms commonly include:
- Pelvic pain
- Painful and irregular bowel habits
- Increased pain during periods and sex
- Changes in menstrual flow
- Fatigue
- Bloating
- Infertility if left untreated
Management of endometriosis #
Endometriosis is an inflammatory condition, so from a nutritional point of view, dietary recommendations should point towards reducing inflammation in conjunction with managing pain and living a healthy lifestyle.
Inflammation is a complicated process; the connection between food and inflammation is still being researched. There are many foods that are believed to impact with the inflammatory process, although the mechanism is not conclusive. What is clear is that there is no single anti-inflammatory eating plan.
Generally, an anti-inflammatory diet is an eating pattern that is based on whole foods, lots of colourful vegetables and fruit and a balance of protein, wholegrain carbs and healthy fats at each meal. It is also a diet that contains low amounts of ultra-processed foods that are high in refined carbohydrates, trans fats, processed meals and excess alcohol. An anti-inflammatory diet does not follow strict rules about calories or portion sizes. Its suggests a variety of anti-inflammatory foods to eat daily, rather than focusing on eating one or two specific foods or nutrients.
Diet that are considered anti-inflammatory include the Mediterranean diet, Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension diet (DASH diet) and a whole food vegetarian-based diet (or a high fibre diet). Anti-inflammatory dietary patterns should also support optimal gut health. When it comes to the research specific to endometriosis, two of the diets that have been studied and linked positively to helping with endometriosis are the Mediterranean diet and the Low-FODMAP diet.
Foods that may positively affect endometriosis #
To fight inflammation and pain caused by endometriosis, it’s best to consume a nutrient-dense, well-balanced diet that’s primarily plant-based and full of vitamins and minerals. These are the top foods to add to your diet:
- Fibrous foods such as vegetables, fruit and wholegrains promote healthy digestion but also reduce the oestrogen load in the blood. Endometriosis suffers often have higher levels of oestrogen so adding more fibre to the foods helps excrete excess oestrogen out the body. Studies suggest that fibre should be increased up to 20- 30 %.
- Plant based iron rich foods like dark leafy greens coupled with lemon juice for maximum absorption. Lean, grass-fed meat can be eaten as an iron source as well although there is some research suggesting a high intake of red meat influences hormone regulation which in turn worsens endometriosis symptoms however more research is needed here.
- Omega‑3 rich foods. Omega ‑3 fatty acids promote the production of prostaglandins which help to reduce the abdominal inflammation induced by endometriosis. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring are all good choices. Plant based omega‑3 rich foods are seaweed, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and flaxseeds.
- Antioxidant rich foods found in colourful fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, berries, dark chocolate (> 80%), and dark green leafy vegetables. The colourful compounds found in a wide variety of plants are called polyphenols and they can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in a variety of ways. Rather than focusing on any one specific wonder-food or supplement, eating a wide range of plants is the best way to get a good dose of polyphenols in your diet.
Foods that may negatively affect endometriosis #
Foods that can influence hormone regulation, particularly oestrogen balance, can negatively affect those with endometriosis. In addition, limiting foods that may promote inflammation in the body and lead to further pain or progression of the disorder. Although more research needs to be done to fully correlate certain foods or lifestyle habits with the development or worsening of this condition, the following factors may negatively influence endometriosis:
- A diet high in ultra-processed foods that contain high amounts of refined carbohydrates, sugar, processed fats, salt and preservatives have been linked to higher endometriosis rates.
- Excessive alcohol intake. Alcohol raises oestrogen levels. Naturally, oestrogen thickens the lining of the uterus during the menstrual cycle hence for women with endometriosis an additional increase in oestrogen levels is not desirable.
- High FODMAP foods. FODMAP stands for fermentable oligosaccherides, disaccharides, monosaccherides and polyols. It is type of carbohydrate that can resist digestion. Some people with digestive issues can benefit by reducing these in their diet. Those with endometriosis are 2.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. It is therefore not surprising that research reports that women who follow a low FODMAP diet experience improved abdominal and overall symptoms. As the low FODMAP diet is a restrictive diet and as high FODMAP foods can also be healthy foods, it is recommended that you speak to a dietitian to support the process of elimination and re-introduction.
Supplements that may help #
In addition to eating a healthy diet, some studies suggest that supplements may be beneficial as well.
- Vitamin D. One large prospective study showed that women with a lower vitamin D level had an increased rate of endometriosis.
- Turmeric. Curcumin is the anti-inflammatory part of the well-known spice turmeric. Studies have shown that it may help with endometriosis management by reducing the production of oestrogen. More research is needed before we know the exact dosages to recommend however in general it is recommended for chronic inflammatory conditions that herbs and spices such as turmeric are used regularly in your meals.
Gluten Free diet for endometriosis? #
Going gluten is one of the most widely circulated “diets” that endometriosis warriors hear they should follow. It is thought that it has the potential to affect inflammation and hormones (both of which are associated with endometriosis). A recent study found that 75% of participants with endometriosis experienced a reduction in period pain, painful sex and pelvic pain when they cut gluten out of their diet. While the exact mechanism is not known, what we do know is that a gluten free diet contains fewer FODMAP’s (particularly fructans from wheat) and that is what really makes the difference. Before you eliminate any food group out your diet it is important to speak to a dietitian for a more personalised approach.
Summary of endometriosis and nutrition #
- Endometriosis is a chronic, complex condition impacting around 10% of women. Receiving a diagnosis takes on average 7.5 years in the UK! Until a diagnosis is made and eating the right foods may help ease some of the symptoms.
- Nutrition cannot reverse endometriosis however following an anti-inflammatory diet that focuses on fruit and vegetables, fibre and healthy fats can help ease symptoms including bloating and pain.
- Ensure that you follow the right nutritional advice. Beware of the information you consume and seek out properly qualified professionals. For tailored advice be sure to speak to a dietitian.
