A fertility-promoting diet is a lifesaver for women with endometriosis, soothing inflammation, balancing hormones and creating a perfect environment for conception. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Smeet Patel, Endometriosis Specialist at Mayflower Women’s Hospital in Ahmedabad, shared, “Anti-inflammatory food is essential, with omega-3 rich foods like salmon, flaxseed and walnuts fighting the inflammatory effects of endometriosis.”
Trying to get pregnant with endometriosis? This diet could change everything.(Image by Pexels)
In most women, the endometrium grows within the uterus. In women with endometriosis, the tissue could grow anywhere in the abdomen — the vagina, rectum, bladder, appendix, abdominal wall, even the upper abdomen.(HT Illustration: Shrikrishna Patkar)
Fertility-first diet that helps endo patients get pregnant
According to Dr Smeet Patel, greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that enhance reproductive well-being. He revealed, “Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower support estrogen metabolism, important in controlling the estrogen dominance frequently linked with endometriosis. Whole grains such as quinoa, brown rice and oats stabilise blood sugar levels and help balance hormones, minimizing insulin spikes that can exacerbate symptoms.”
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the pelvic organs of women, and is caused by abnormal growth.(Shutterstock)
The expert added, “Lean proteins such as organic chicken, eggs and vegetable sources including lentils and chickpeas contain amino acids needed for the formation and regulation of hormones and subsequently improving egg quality. Avocado, olive oil, and nuts deliver healthy fats needed for regulating hormones and reducing inflammation.”
Endometriosis: Foods to eat or avoid, exercise tips, lifestyle changes to make (Pixabay)
Fighting endometriosis naturally
While foods such as beans, lentils and cereals fortify iron because patients with endometriosis lose a great deal of blood throughout their cycles, pumpkin seed, chickpeas, and shellfish zinc promote egg quality and reproductive wellness. Dr Smeet Patel pointed out, “Fortified dairy products, fatty fish and sun vitamin D promote ovarian function and implantation. Hydration is equally important, with proper quantities of water utilized to remove toxins and support cellular function.”
He suggested that steering clear of pro-inflammatory foods such as processed sugar, dairy, red meat, and trans fats can also enhance fertility. Dr Smeet Patel concluded, “Healthy eating and lifestyle modifications like stress reduction and exercise can also greatly improve reproductive health in endometriosis women. There is no diet that can guarantee pregnancy but a healthy anti-inflammatory diet will improve fertility and overall health to its maximum capability, making it possible for women with endometriosis-associated infertility to become pregnant.”
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
