What are the best supplements for endometriosis?

by Lucia Stansbie

Endometriosis can be a complex disease impacting many aspects of a women’s life. While nutrition can’t cure or reverse the condition can certainty help managing the symptoms and improving the quality of life.

What would be the best recommendation from my nutritional therapist and endometriosis suffer point of view? The nutrients below are backed up by studies that show their potential role in managing endometriosis symptoms, but their role is also dependent on the individual medical history and current diet; Working with a practitioner can help you pinpoint the best personalised approach for you creating a nutrition, supplement and lifestyle.

VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin found naturally in foods like fatty fish (such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel), liver, egg yolk, and cheese.

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to several autoimmune diseases as well as endometriosis. Both women with and without endometriosis have vitamin D receptors and enzymes in their ovaries and endometrial tissue, highlighting the important role it plays in the reproductive system.

In terms of immune response, vitamin D promotes the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, while reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines. This suggests that adequate vitamin D levels may help improve chronic inflammatory conditions and autoimmune diseases by balancing the body’s immune response.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is one of the most abundant electrolytes in the human body, playing a key role in several vital functions, including protein and DNA synthesis, enzyme activity, and supporting the nervous system and muscle function. Common food sources of magnesium include nuts, grains, spinach, legumes, avocado, and potatoes.

Magnesium has long been used in gynecological practice. In women with endometriosis, studies have observed that the fallopian tubes may contract irregularly, which can contribute to the condition. Magnesium helps to relax smooth muscles, potentially affecting retrograde menstruation, which is thought to be a primary cause of endometriosis. This suggests that increasing magnesium intake, particularly through food, could help lower the risk of developing endometriosis.

OMEGA3

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly omega-3 fatty acids, have gained attention for their impressive health benefits. Recent research has shown that omega-3 PUFAs have anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic (preventing new blood vessel formation), anti-apoptotic (preventing cell death), and antiproliferative effects, making them valuable for managing chronic conditions.

When it comes to endometriosis, omega-3 PUFAs are among the most studied supplements for managing its symptoms and preventing its progression. Research has shown that high omega-3 to omega-6 ratios can reduce the survival of endometrial cells, and lower inflammation related to this condition.

PROPOLIS

Chrysin is a natural flavonoid mainly found in plant extracts, propolis, and honey. In vitro studies have shown that chrysin stimulates a decrease in proliferation in human endometriotic cells, possibly slowing or halting the progression of the desease.

QUERCITIN

Quercetin is a powerful antioxidant commonly found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including onions, cauliflower, lettuce, apple skin, and chili peppers. Known for its numerous health benefits, quercetin has shown promising effects in the management of endometriosis.

Research has demonstrated that quercetin can help inhibit the growth of endometriotic cells by inducing cell cycle arrest, as well as showning anti-estrogenic and progestogenic properties in animal studies, meaning it may help balance hormone levels, which could be beneficial for women with endometriosis. Given its potential to reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance, quercetin may offer a natural therapeutic option for improving symptoms and potentially treating endometriosis.

ALPHA LIPOIC ACID (α-LA)

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA) is a naturally occurring compound found in foods like spinach, broccoli, and tomatoes, and is also produced by the body. α-LA is unique because it is both water-soluble and fat-soluble, which allows it to work effectively in various parts of the body.

Research on α-LA’s effects in endometriosis has shown promising results. In an experimental model, it was found that α-LA reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory markers, and led to smaller endometrial implant volumes. Other studies have shown that regular use of α-LA can significantly reduce pain symptoms commonly associated with endometriosis, including pelvic pain and painful periods (dysmenorrhea).

EPIGALLOCATECHIN-3-GALLATE (EGCG)

EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is a powerful plant-based compound found most notably in green tea and matcha. Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, EGCG has shown promise in research related to endometriosis. Studies in the lab have demonstrated that EGCG can suppress estrogen-driven activation and cell growth in endometrial cells. This makes EGCG a potential player in reducing the growth and spread of endometriosis.

In laboratory studies, EGCG has been shown to significantly reduce the size and number of endometrial implants, decrease cell proliferation, limit the growth of blood vessels (vascularization), and promote apoptosis, or cell death, in endometrial cells. It has also been noted for preventing fibrosis, a condition where tissue becomes thick and scarred.