Endometriosis: the most effective dietary supplements

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease, polymorphic and multifactorial, affecting women of childbearing age and often associated with infertility. It is characterized by varied symptoms, in particular frequent pelvic pain as well as painful periods. Although its exact causes are poorly understood, certain hormonal, genetic, immune or environmental factors have been identified and may partly explain this complex and underdiagnosed disease, for which no curative treatment exists.

Symptoms and Complications

The endometrium is the tissue that lines the inside surface of the uterus. When it grows outside the uterine cavity, due to the hormonal changes of the menstrual cycle, it can exert pressure on the ovaries, the intestine, the bladder and the tissues that line the pelvis. This condition is accompanied by various lesions (superficial or deep nodules, ovarian cysts). Endometriotic lesions can affect the uterine muscle as well as the ovaries or the peritoneum. In addition to chronic pain, an inflammatory component characterizes this disease. It is associated with high oxidative stress. It is the consequence of an adhesion between organs during the migration of tissue similar to the uterine lining. In addition, hormonal imbalances are observed within endometriotic tissues. This condition affects 2.5 million women in France. The main symptoms of endometriosis are: • Painful periods (dysmenorrhea) • Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia) • Frequent pelvic pain • Umbilical and/or abdominal pain • Lower back pain radiating into the legs • Difficulty urinating (dysuria) • Painful bowel movements • Chronic fatigue • Psychological distress (anxiety) The main complication that can occur with endometriosis is the development of bowel stenosis with signs of partial bowel obstruction, requiring surgical intervention. Rupture of an endometriotic cyst into the peritoneal cavity is another serious complication. However, these complication risks are very rare. Moreover, this condition carries a significant risk of developing depression because it affects the quality of the couple's relationship, professional and social life, and more broadly, women's well-being.

Causes and Risk Factors

Endometriosis is a complex disease whose exact causes remain uncertain. However, several hypotheses and mechanisms have been proposed to explain its development, based on a combination of genetic, immunological, hormonal and environmental factors. Retrograde menstruation theory This phenomenon occurs when endometrial tissue, instead of being expelled during menstruation, flows back through the fallopian tubes to reach the pelvic cavity. Once in this area, these tissue fragments can implant on neighboring organs, causing chronic inflammation and lesions. Immune dysfunction Normally, the body should eliminate endometrial cells that migrate outside the uterus. In some women, this process is insufficient, allowing the abnormal tissue to implant and grow. Hormonal influence Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease. One theory proposes that endometriosis, whether intrauterine or extrauterine, results from strong mechanical pressures exerted by myometrial contractions, notably during ovulation and menstruation. These contractions would favor the migration of endometrial cells outside the uterus, leading to the appearance of endometriotic lesions. These lesions require significant estrogen exposure to grow and proliferate, which explains their regression in the absence of this hormonal stimulation. Furthermore, a self-stimulating loop may develop in the lesions, increasing local estrogen production while reducing sensitivity to progesterone, which may explain the failure of some progestin treatments. Genetic factors Studies show a genetic predisposition to endometriosis. Women with a family history of this disease are more likely to be affected. Role of environmental factors Exposure to certain environmental pollutants, notably endocrine disruptors such as dioxins and phthalates, could promote the development of endometriosis. These chemical substances can interfere with hormones and cause inflammation. These causes are not mutually exclusive and often interact to promote the development and progression of endometriosis.

Prevention

Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet helps reduce chronic pain and improve quality of life. It is recommended to include foods rich in omega-3s (fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts) for their anti-inflammatory effects, as well as cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower) rich in antioxidants and in compounds that promote hepatic detoxification of estrogens. Supplementation with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, magnesium, zinc and vitamin B6 is particularly beneficial to reduce inflammation and support hormonal regulation. Antioxidants help limit the effects of the high oxidative stress often associated with endometriosis. Several plants are recognized for their beneficial effects on endometriosis symptoms. Among them: • Yarrow : Rich in flavonoids and luteolin, it is a particularly interesting plant in cases of endometriosis to prevent various menstrual disorders. It regulates hormonal imbalances, thanks to its "progesterone-like" effect. In addition, through its emmenagogue action (stimulation of blood flow) and thinning properties, it facilitates menstrual flow. Its analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects soothe pelvic pain and irregular periods. Furthermore, it supports the liver in recycling (detoxifying) excess estrogens. Its venous and lymphatic decongestant action is therefore beneficial for regulating the menstrual cycle and rebalancing hormone levels • Ginger : Well known for its digestive benefits, ginger is also a plant with anti-inflammatory virtues that helps reduce inflammation and eases menstrual pain. It is also useful for relieving nausea associated with endometriosis. Purifying, it plays a beneficial role in helping the liver eliminate excess toxins. Essential oils provide an effective complementary approach to relieve pain and inflammation associated with endometriosis. Recommended essential oils include: • Tropical basil : With antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, it can be used to relieve menstrual cramps. It can be applied topically (diluted in a vegetable oil) or taken orally (diluted in honey or an herbal tea). • Roman chamomile : Soothes spasms and reduces pelvic pain while having a relaxing psycho-emotional effect. • Tarragon : Known for its antispasmodic action, it reduces pain related to uterine and digestive spasms. A synergy of essential oils can be prepared to combine their effects, to be used in a massage on the pelvic area.