In endometriosis, cells from the uterine lining also grow outside the uterus, such as in the ovaries, intestines and bladder. Endometriosis is associated with severe menstrual pain and can affect fertility.
The cause of endometriosis is not clearly understood. Genetic predisposition appears to play a role. Scientists suspect that hormonal changes and environmental toxins can also promote endometriosis. Diet is also important in endometriosis. Women with endometriosis often lack essential nutrients, which is suspected of promoting endometriosis.
The treatment of endometriosis focuses mainly on alleviating symptoms. Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory drugs are often used. Hormones are also used in the treatment of endometriosis, such as progestogens. Taking the contraceptive pill can also alleviate endometriosis symptoms. In extreme cases, endometriosis lesions can be surgically removed.
The following nutrients are promising for endometriosis:
Omega-3
Inflammation appears to be at least partially responsible for the pain in endometriosis. Omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and can thus counteract inflammatory pain.
Poor supply of omega-3 fatty acids is associated with an increased risk of endometriosis. 1
Vitamins C and E
Endometriosis is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. These are partly caused by endometriosis. But there is also evidence that free radicals and inflammation can drive and worsen the disease.
In a large-scale study, a low intake of antioxidant vitamins such as vitamin C and E was associated with an increased risk of endometriosis. Conversely, in a small study with endometriosis patients, chronic pain decreased and oxidative stress was reduced after taking vitamin C and E. 2 However, further research is needed here.
B vitamins
Women with endometriosis often have elevated homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is a toxic metabolic product that the body must detoxify. To do this, it needs B vitamins , especially vitamin B6, folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12 . 3 Too high a homocysteine level is often due to an inadequate supply of one or more of these B vitamins. Too much homocysteine damages the whole body and increases the risk of many diseases such as cardiovascular disease, dementia and depression.
Women with endometriosis should therefore have their homocysteine levels checked and ensure they have a good supply of B vitamins.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is not only important for bone health. It also has important functions in the immune system and helps regulate inflammation. The reproductive organs have many vitamin D receptors and a good supply of vitamin D promotes hormonal balance.
The research here is not entirely clear, but a lack of vitamin D appears to increase the risk of endometriosis. 4 In one study, the severity of period pain decreased significantly after 8 weeks of taking vitamin D. 5
Curcumin
Curcumin is extracted from turmeric and is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Curcumin also appears to have other effects on endometriosis. At least in animals, curcumin can inhibit the growth of the uterine lining and can therefore probably contain endometriosis lesions. 6 However, further research is needed to show whether this is also the case in humans.
Conclusion: Important nutrients are often lacking in endometriosis
Endometriosis is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. These are caused by the disease, but also appear to be able to make endometriosis worse. Therefore, a good supply of anti-inflammatory nutrients is important. Women with endometriosis often lack essential anti-inflammatory nutrients such as vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C and vitamin E. Those affected should therefore ensure they have a good supply of these nutrients.
