Endometriosis, What Is It and The Holistic Approach
Endometriosis currently affects 10% of the female population, which makes up roughly 50% of women experiencing infertility. With this newly discovered disease process, there is still much to learn, as there is no proper “cure” for those suffering from it. This is alarming and emphasizes the need for research into natural health remedies, diet, autoimmune health factors, and lifestyles to provide better management of the disease.
Western medicine currently uses surgical interventions (laparoscopic surgery), hormonal control, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (pain medications). Some women may need to undergo these invasive procedures anywhere from every 3 months to years apart, depending on the nature and severity of the disease. But what if there were a way to reduce the need for these invasive surgeries, hormonal treatments, and the constant supply of medications like ibuprofen, naprogesic, and even opioids for severe cases? These procedures all come with side effects that women are expected to endure to cope with their chronic condition of endometriosis.
A holistic approach to treating endometriosis focuses on how to manage disease symptoms (e.g., pain and inflammation) so that individuals living with this condition can find some freedom within the constraints of this debilitating disease. If we can find relief and no longer need these commonly used invasive treatments, we can avoid the side effects that may lead to various gut dysfunctions, including leaky gut, increased inflammation, bloating, and the recovery time required after laparoscopic surgery.
Research increasingly shows optimism about the role of the food we eat and how it can serve as medicine for endometriosis and other female reproductive conditions (PCOS, PMS, menorrhagia, amenorrhea, infertility, menopause, and more). So where do we start?Under the care of a qualified Nutritionist, Naturopath, Dietician or specialist; the following is a series of lifestyle changes, intentional dietary adjustments, and therapeutic supplementations (along with doctor/specialist care) may support symptoms of endo;
Limit the intake of pro-inflammatory foods, including saturated and trans fats, excessive coffee consumption, excessive alcohol consumption, excessive sugar intake, excessive red meat consumption (aim for 1-2 times a week), A1 cow's dairy milk and products, as well as gluten-containing foods.
Replace these with anti-inflammatory foods, such as omega-3 fats from salmon, chia seeds, nuts and seeds, avocados and avocado oil, flaxseed oil, cod-liver oil supplementation, mackerel, and more. Turmeric, ginger, leafy greens, olive oil, and fiber are also staples for reducing inflammation in the diet.
Reduce exposure to estrogen-disrupting compounds and environmental toxins, e.g., non-organic fruits and vegetables containing sprayed herbicide and pesticide chemicals that have been positively associated with the risk of endometriosis. Make sure to wash your produce.
Support liver function. Foods that can support the liver include ginger, beetroot, dark leafy greens, broccoli, and other cruciferous vegetables, as well as various herbs and spices.
Increase antioxidant intake, primarily found in fruits and vegetables. Consuming a wide variety weekly will help provide necessary amounts of antioxidants, which may support the regression of endometrial lesions. Vitamins such as A, C, and E have been specifically studied to lower oxidative stress in women with endometriosis.
Maintain a healthy microbiota in both the vagina and the gut through pre and probiotic species. Having a healthy microbiota may reduce the risk and help to manage symptoms. Probiotics can be taken in supplement form and foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods, while prebiotics can be found in foods like green bananas, psyllium husk, cooked and cooled potatoes, and rice.
Focus on digestive health. Identifying nutrient insufficiencies and correcting them through diet and supplementation is essential. Investigate any absorption issues through refferal to your GP. For example, adequate protein intake is required for healthy functioning sex hormones, so not meeting this requirement may hinder the optimal performance of the reproductive system.
Consider supplementation options with your clinical nutritionist or naturopath, but remember that each case is individual, and these are recommendations for reference. Options include
Omega-3s such as cod liver oil or clean fish oils (EPA/DHA)
Well-balanced probiotics of high potency (40-60 billion CFU)
Vitamins like B vitamins, zinc, CoQ10, vitamins A, C, and E, and NAC, among others.
If you have found this information helpful and want to learn more, please reach out to your healthcare practitioner for personalized guidance on managing your endometriosis through nutrition. This information should not be a substitute for treatment from healthcare professionals. If you are suffering from endometriosis, seek professional help to incorporate this information effectively.
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