In endometriosis there is endometrial tissue outside the uterine lining, which also suffers transformations similar to those that occur during the menstrual cycle . As a rule, endometrioses have symptoms, including: The most common is pain : during menstruation (dysmenorrhea) or outside it, during or after sexual intercourse and orgasm, when urinating or defecating; Difficulty getting pregnant and infertility are more common in women with endometriosis. It is estimated that in Europe, the United States of America and Australia, endometriosis can reach 1%-5% of women in childbearing age. According to the World Health Organization, the prevalence can reach 10%. In addition to medical and/or surgical treatment, the scientific literature has shown that nutrition can be an important ally in the treatment of endometriosis . An adequate nutrition can contribute to the reduction of estrogen levels, control of oxidative stress and inflammation, characteristic of this disease, namely through the adoption of a diet rich in antioxidants, fiber and omega-3 fatty acids at the expense of saturated and trans fats. Interventions must be advised and supervised by a nutritionist and are based on: A healthy diet, with anti-inflammatory properties and in the improvement of intestinal health; Nutritional supplementation, whenever necessary; Reduced exposure to environmental toxins. So, some of the nutritional strategies include: Reducing the amount of dietary fat , favoring unsaturated fats over saturated ones, by reducing the consumption of red meat, bakery products, industrialized products such as biscuits, as well as fast food, and promoting the consumption of foods such as oilseeds, other seeds, avocado and fat fish species. Reinforcing the consumption of fruits and vegetables , which, in addition to their fiber content, have important antioxidant properties and are rich in vitamins and minerals, essential for controlling inflammation and oxidative stress. Good examples are red fruits and citrus fruits, as well as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, turnips, cabbage, broccoli, garlic and onions. Ginger, curcuma and green tea are also interesting to include in these patients' diet. The more frequent inclusion of vegetarian meals also seems to be promising in controlling endometriosis. A diet low in short-chain carbohydrates with poor intestinal absorption and fermentable foods ( low FODMAP diet ) may also be considered for women with intestinal symptoms, always following consultations with physicians and nutritionist. Supplementation is another possibility to consider given the particularities of each patient, namely omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, curcumin, vitamin C and E, N-acetylcysteine and/or magnesium, but always discussed and evaluated with a nutritionist. Exposure to xenobiotics , present in plastics, food packaging, cleaning products, make-up and in foods produced with some fertilizers, must be the target of attention . These compounds act as endocrine disruptors, which can alter hormone balance and interfere with disease. So, changing containers such as plastic bottles, cups and boxes for glass, wearing gloves when using cleaning products and preferring organically produced food, in season and available in bulk, can also be important changes. Author : Maria Inês Cardoso Meet the nutrition clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
