Endometriosis Diet

It is no secret that what we eat greatly affects signs and symptoms of any disorder we may be suffering. Endometriosis is no different. This is a condition in which tissues from the endometrium or uterine lining travel and grow in other areas of the body. This can cause inflammation, scarring, pain, bleeding and infertility.

These misplaced tissues respond to hormonal changes in the body, so when menstruation happens, they bleed too. However, blood is unable to leave the part where the tissue has implanted, and this can lead to scarring in the neighboring tissues. Prostaglandins are thought to stimulate estrogen, which in turn further exacerbates symptoms of endometriosis. In order to provide a natural, healthy way of managing this try an endometriosis diet, as changing your diet may be the answer.

Endometriosis Diet Plan For Fertility

Macrobiotic Diet - Endometriosis Diet Fertility

A macrobiotic diet is a dietary regimen which involves eating grains as staple food and is supplemented by vegetables while avoiding the use of highly processed and refined foods or most animal products. A macrobiotic diet is most beneficial for those women with endometriosis. This diet allows the immune system to be calm, while correcting the hostile environment left upon the misplaced endometrial cells.

There are also specific indications as to what type of foods should be eaten in relation to the seasons. In spring, foods which are lighter in quantity are to be taken. This includes fresh greens, wild plants, fermented food and grains. In summer, diet includes fruits, sweet corn, summer pumpkins and greens with large leaves. For autumn, foods which are more concentrated are indicated. Examples are root vegetables, winter pumpkins, beans and cereals. For winter, round vegetables, pickles, root vegetables, buckwheat and fried rice are recommended.

Essential Oils - Endometriosis Diet Plan

Prostaglandins are naturally occurring fatty acids which are derived from dietary sources. Since endometriosis is an estrogen-sensitive condition, and estrogen surge is brought upon prostaglandins, it is important to maintain a diet that is less likely to bring about prostaglandin synthesis in the body. Essential oils such as Omega-3 fatty acids which can be found in evening primrose oil, flax seed and walnut oil help in relaxation of the uterus. Saturated fatty acids should be limited because this type of fat produces more prostaglandins. Sources include butter, lard and animal meat.

Fiber - Endometriosis Diet Recipes

Fiber not only aids in digestion and elimination, it is also thought to help eliminate circulating estrogens in the body. Whole grains excluding wheat and rye, beans, peas, brown rice, vegetables, fruits and oatmeal provide excellent sources of fiber.

Endometriosis Hormone regulating foods

Foods that are though to modulate estrogen levels include mustard greens, broccoli, cabbage and turnips.  Those foods which contain phytoestrogens block estrogen receptors and can be helpful locking out estrogen. Examples of these foods are red and purple berries, garlic, apples, parsley, fennel, nuts and seeds, celery and carrots.

B Vitamins - Endometriosis Treatment

Foods rich in B vitamins help degrade estradiol to estriol. Estriol is the form of estrogen which can easily be excreted. In addition, green leafy vegetables help the nervous and immune systems. Magnesium is another mineral which helps relax the smooth muscles of the intestines and the uterus. Certain vegetables have substances that help activate liver enzymes and help in detoxifying chemicals. Through this, excess hormones such as estrogen can be eliminated. These vegetables are broccoli, brussels sprouts and cauliflower. Other cruciferous vegetables which are good include turnips, kale, radishes, horseradish and watercress.

Foods To Avoid - Endometriosis Symptoms

Sugar of all forms can produce a more acidic environment which further potentiates the inflammation resulting from endometriosis symptoms. Consumption of sweets should be limited. Wheat and other related species should be avoided altogether because they are known to contain gluten and phytic acid which can aggravate symptoms of endometriosis. Soy products also contain phytic acid which causes irritation in the digestive system and minimize the absorption of calcium. Red meat and organic dairy products may contain natural estrogen from the animals. They should be avoided because of the already excessive amounts of estrogen in women suffering from endometriosis. When consuming fruits or vegetables, it is important to peel them so that exposure to estrogenic pesticides may be reduced.

It is important to avoid foods which irritate the immune system – this may cause harmful effects. Citrus fruits like grapefruits and oranges may irritate the stomach and hinder the excretion of estrogen in the body.

Endometriosis Diet Herbal Supplements

Aside from an endometriosis diet , Chinese herbs can also be a useful endometriosis treatment. These herbs are used to nourish blood and clear the internal blood heat. These herbs are cinnamon twig and poria pill. These herbs have been proven to calm the immune system, providing a conducive and healthy environment, and restoring fertility.

Dietary modifications and herbal supplements do not increase fertility overnight. Nor do they specifically treat endometriosis. Sometimes, the body takes time to adjust and benefit from external factors. It is important to understand that through these steps, the body is being helped into achieving maximum health, and with a healthy environment, disorders may be corrected and fertility resumed.