Endometriosis has been characterized by the presence of uterine
tissue (endometrial glands and stroma) in areas other than the uterus,
such as the pelvic floor or around the fallopian tubes and ovaries. It
is an oestrogen sensitive condition however the painful menstrual
cramping that occurs is predominantly due to prostaglandin (PG)
synthesis in the body. The action of the PG3 is to increase uterine
contractions, whereas PG2 promotes relaxation and anti-inflammatory
actions. Dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) is a common symptom of
endometriosis. It can be debilitating and
psychologically taxing for many women, and can be divided into 2 broad
categories: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in the
absence of pelvic pathology, whereas secondary dysmenorrhea results from
identifiable organic diseases.
Omega-3 fatty acid can stimulate uterine relaxation and a decrease in saturated fatty acids can reduced the PG3 which are pro-inflammatory, being produced, as well as lower serum oestrogen levels. By increasing flaxseed oil, avocados, sunflower seeds fish and fish oils in Sandra's diet we can promote the PG2 synthesis. Other anti-inflammatory phytochemicals that also reduce PG3 synthesis include, bromelain, quercetin and cucurmin . Thus increasing foods such as pineapple (which contains bromelain) , even turmeric (which contains curcumin) in cooking is a simple way to increase these anti-inflammatory responses. Onions would be a great inclusion into your diet. Quercetin is also found in green tea thus increasing your intake would be greatly beneficial.
A dietary change that could be made to reduce dysmenorrhea is increasing dietary fibre. Not only does this help with good digestion, but it is also thought that a diet high in fibre can decrease total circulating oestrogens by excretion. It has been recommended to consume 25 grams of dietary fibre per day. Increasing foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains, beans, brown rice and oats maybe also be very beneficial.
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