How To Control Endometriosis? By Making Changes To Lifestyle & Diet
Endometriosis is a painful gynecological condition affecting over 190 ( 19 crores) million people globally. India alone represents 25 percent of the burden with an estimated 43 million ( 4.5 crores) women enduring the pain., suffering from Endometriosis which is a leading cause of infertility as well.
There’s no specific diet for endometriosis, but eating certain foods might alleviate symptoms. These include antioxidant-rich foods, fiber, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. Research has found that an anti-inflammatory diet rich in these foods can reduce inflammation and excess estrogen, which worsen symptoms.1 Gluten and trans fats, in contrast, can cause flare-ups.
Although endometriosis is not a preventable disease Dr. Vimee Bindra – Fertility Enhancing Surgery Specialist; Endometriosis Excision Surgery Specialist; and founder of Endometriosis Foundation of India recommends the following diet and lifestyle changes for Endometriosis patients to lead a healthy life and manage their symptoms better.
The anti-inflammatory diet is highly recommended for endometriosis as inflammation plays an important role in pain and infertility so reducing inflammation helps.
Foods to be avoided
● Highly processed foods
● Sugars & sweets
● Oily foods
● Caffeine
● Red meat
● Alcohol
● Also, gluten to be avoided for some
Foods that work well for endo patients to reduce inflammation
● Plenty of organic vegetables and fruits
● Magnesium-rich foods
● Greens family
● Healthy fats
● Seeds and nuts in moderation
Here also we would like to agree upon the customization of diet according to one’s eating habits and allergies
Pelvic physiotherapy is recommended for endometriosis patients which helps in reducing fibrosis and movement-associated pain also identifying pelvic pain generators is important.
We would like to mention that there is no prevention for endometriosis as it has a genetic association for its causation so changing lifestyle and diet helps it manage better.
About the author- Dr. Vimee Bindra– Fertility Enhancing Surgery Specialist; Endometriosis Excision Surgery Specialist; founder of Endometriosis Foundation of India