Endometriosis - 2 million Polish women struggle with it. How to relieve symptoms with diet?

Many initial symptoms of endometriosis are underestimated. Only their strengthening is alarming. What is a wandering endometrium? What are the symptoms? What is the treatment? Are there ways to relieve symptoms through diet?

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis, also known as vagus endometritis, is a disease that is primarily caused by an overgrowth of the lining of the uterus. In women with a regular menstrual cycle, the mucosa builds up within three weeks and then flakes off during menstruation. However, in women suffering from endometriosis, a situation arises when part of the endometrial cells with the blood flow enters the fallopian tubes, and then into the abdominal cavity. This problem most often affects women of childbearing age. In most cases, endometriosis occurs in patients aged 30 to 40 years.

“The most difficult starting point in this disease is diagnosis.” - comments Roksana Sroda, nutritionist and founder of MajAcademy. “I often see clients complaining about painful periods or abdominal pain. They blame themselves for the bad diet or lifestyle that causes them to struggle with constant bloating, stomach issues, and other problems. As a clinical dietitian, we always start our work with in-depth studies, including gynecological and hormonal studies. From the experience of my students, I know that proper diagnosis and symptom relief, including diet, allows you to return to normal functioning, ”he adds.

Causes of endometriosis

Despite numerous studies, the causes of endometriosis are still unknown. Some doctors blame too heavy periods. They believe that endometrial cells enter the abdominal cavity with the bloodstream, and then begin to live their lives outside the uterine cavity. Another theory points to genetic causes. Uterine endometriosis is much more common in women whose mothers or grandmothers have struggled with the same problem. Current research also points to the influence of the immune system and hormonal imbalances.

Wandering endometrium - symptoms

The main symptom of endometriosis is pain, which patients localize in the lower abdomen. They often appear before menstruation and disappear with it. What’s more, periods can be long and heavy, with some women complaining of pain during intercourse and spotting during the cycle. Other symptoms also include:

• diarrhea or constipation

• flatulence

• bleeding from the genital tract,

• weakness and fatigue of the body.

One of the most important consequences of a wandering endometrium is infertility. The resulting adhesions can cause bowel and fallopian tube obstruction and interfere with normal bowel function.

“It is the intestine and its treatment that often lead us to the cause of the disorder. As specialists, incl. bowel diseases, we can promptly offer specific tests for endometriosis,” notes the dietitian.

Removing the symptoms of the disease - that is, diet

In recent years, special attention has been paid to proper nutrition. Increasing the amount of vegetables and fruits consumed while limiting meat consumption may reduce the risk of endometriosis.

“One of the main dietary considerations that every woman with endometriosis should take care of is the introduction of an anti-inflammatory diet. This will have a very positive effect not only on treatment, but also on the whole body and well-being. One of the most important elements is the reduction of trans fats and fatty meats, as well as the introduction of a serving of oily fish 2-3 times a week, which is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Another recommendation is to eat at least 3 servings of blueberries per week, which is an anti-inflammatory antioxidant bomb.” - suggests Roxana Sroda.

It is equally important to plan every day with fresh vegetables (preferably green and red), avocado, olive or flaxseed oil. They are also characterized by many valuable properties. A very important aspect of nutrition will also be limiting those foods that increase inflammation, such as salty snacks, sweets, junk food, alcohol.

Is physical activity possible?

Exercise, especially moderate exercise, regulates the secretion of hormones. Activity min. 3 times a week for 30 minutes Special attention is paid to Pilates, yoga, swimming, stretching and jogging. “Each activity should be tailored to your own needs and abilities so that it is not only a daily task, but also a form of recreation. I also recommend consulting with a nutritionist or gynecologist who will tell you what is good for us,” sums up the founder of MajAcademy, a platform for people who are looking for expert advice, webinars and healthy recipes. Women suffering from wandering endometrium are contraindicated in interval and strength training, martial arts or tennis.

Treatment of endometriosis

Dieting and exercising alone is not enough. In the treatment of endometriosis of the uterus, pharmacological or surgical methods are used. Their choice depends on the state of health of the patient, as well as her plans for the future. The first method is to take contraceptives, gestagens and other drugs, the task of which is to reduce the secretion of estrogen by the ovaries.

The most common surgical treatment is laparoscopy, in which endometrial cysts that have formed during the course of the disease are removed. Within six months after the procedure, the woman’s condition improves significantly. However, relapses of the disease often occur, after which they return to pharmacological methods.

An example of a healthy lunch recipe for women with endometriosis

Nutritionist advice: Seasonal vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals! Use them as much as possible and for as long as possible! In addition to being a great source of fiber, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, beans are also an excellent source of plant-based protein. In addition, it is a very good source of vitamin C, calcium and magnesium. Use them as often as possible, especially during high season!