Endometriosis: The Diet That Helps You Feel Better and Foods to Avoid

“Endometriosis is a type of benign chronic inflammation resulting from the migration of endometrial cells outside their natural location. These endometrial cells that move from the uterine cavity (their natural location) usually migrate to the ovaries or pelvic peritoneum, producing new endometrium where it shouldn't be,” explains Dr. Elena Zannoni, a gynecologist at the Irccs Istituto Clinico Humanitas in Rozzano (Milan).

Endometriosis can cause Intestinal Problems

Abdominal bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, and constipation are the main issues endometriosis can create in the intestines, which also negatively affect the digestive system. “The role of diet in managing these symptoms due to the inflammation triggered by endometriosis is now well known,” the gynecologist explains. Following an appropriate diet is therefore very important both to reduce inflammation and to limit the symptoms it causes. For this reason, the right menu can provide a better quality of life for those who have been battling endometriosis for years.

The Diet for Endometriosis Must Be Anti-inflammatory

“In general, foods high in fiber should be preferred, as they aid digestion and intestinal function and lower estrogen levels in the blood, keeping estrogen-dependent tissues like the endometrium at rest,” Dr. Zannoni clarifies. Women with endometriosis should increase their intake of high-fiber foods by 20-30%. “They also benefit from the intake of Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote the production of a molecule (prostaglandin PGE1) that acts against the inflammatory processes underlying endometriosis,” the doctor concludes.

Legumes are excellent, particularly chickpeas, peas, and lentils. Plenty of fresh or cooked vegetables are also recommended. As for fruit, prunes, pears, and apples are especially beneficial. Omega-3s are mainly found in salmon, oily fish, fresh tuna, sea bream, and sea bass, as well as in nuts (almonds, walnuts, and cashews) and seeds (pumpkin, flax, sunflower, chia, and sesame). Other recommended foods are whole eggs, due to their high folate content.

Goodbye - Sugar should be avoided with Endometriosis

If there is one food that should be completely banned from the diet of those suffering from endometriosis, it is sugar. Both white and brown sugar significantly promote inflammation. The same goes for alcoholic beverages, carbonated drinks, and sweetened beverages. If you can't drink anything other than water, opt for a fruit smoothie or juice. The same applies to cravings for sweets. Since pastries, candies, and chocolate are off-limits, you can try satisfying your sweet tooth with natural yogurt enriched with strawberries, blueberries, or other fresh fruit. However, even this should not be consumed daily.

Can Supplements Help with Endometriosis?

Vitamin D, Omega-6, Nicotinamide, Curcumin, Calcium Methylfolate, Quercetin, and Feverfew are some of the substances that a doctor may prescribe to help balance key components for the well-being of women with endometriosis. These can help alleviate the associated pain

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