Nutrition in the prevention and treatment of endometriosis: A review

Abstract

Endometriosis is characterized by the presence of endometrial tissues outside the uterine lining, typically on the external surface of the uterus, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, abdominal wall, or intestines. The prevalence of endometriosis in North America, Australia, and Europe is ~1–5% in women of reproductive age. Treatment options for endometriosis are limited. While over-the-counter medications may be used to reduce acute pain, hormonal treatments are common and may interfere with fertility. In more severe cases, laparoscopic excision procedures and even hysterectomies are used to treat the pain associated with endometriosis. Nutritional interventions may be helpful in the prevention and treatment of endometriosis and associated pain. Reducing dietary fat and increasing dietary fiber have been shown to reduce circulating estrogen concentrations, suggesting a potential benefit for individuals with endometriosis, as it is an estrogen-dependent disease. Meat consumption is associated with greater risk of developing endometriosis. Anti-inflammatory properties of plant-based diets may benefit women with endometriosis. Additionally, seaweed holds estrogen-modulating properties that have benefitted postmenopausal women and offers potential to reduce estradiol concentrations in pre-menopausal women. Furthermore, consumption of vitamin D has been shown to reduce endometrial pain via increased antioxidant capacity and supplementation with vitamins C and E significantly reduced endometriosis symptoms, compared with placebo. More randomized clinical trials are needed to elucidate the role of diet in endometriosis.

Low Diet Quality and Nutritional Knowledge in Women with Endometriosis: A Pilot Study

“…According to the number of studies, certain dietary components, including vegetables, fruits, dairy products and omega-3 PUFAs, have been associated with a lower risk of developing endometriosis [ 10 , 31 , 32 ], while dietary factors such as fiber, antioxidants, vitamin D and B groups may have helpful effects for prevention and treatment. However, while some studies have noted observations supporting the importance of dietary interventions, only a small fraction have provided evidence-based dietary recommendations [ 33 ]. Given the complexity of the disease, this is not surprising [ 34 ].…”

25(OH)D3 improves granulosa cell proliferation and IVF pregnancy outcomes in patients with endometriosis by increasing G2M+S phase cells

“…This is likely to be closely related to the etiological complexity, stage and seasonal periodicity, duration of sun exposure, regional and ethnic differences [ 29 ], Which lead to differences in vitamin D levels. Vitamin D supplementation can significantly relieve pelvic pain symptoms and prevent endometriosis in patients with endometriosis [ 30 – 32 ]. Vitamin D levels were strongly correlated with IVF success ( r = 0.94), with each nmol/L increase in vitamin D content in FF associated with a 2.4% increase in clinical pregnancy rates [ 13 ].…”

How Can Selected Dietary Ingredients Influence the Development and Progression of Endometriosis?

“…Regular monitoring and individualized nutritional advice from a healthcare professional or registered dietitian can help effectively treat these aspects of endometriosis. Therefore, a properly adapted and balanced diet in the treatment of endometriosis should focus on eliminating nutritional deficiencies, eliminating excess estrogen, reducing inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and reducing exposure to estrogen derivatives (phytoestrogens and xenoestrogens) [ 18 , 19 , 20 ].…”