Endometriosis is a benign condition in which the lining of the uterus--called the endometrium--grows in other areas of a woman's body. The tissue can form near the ovaries, in the pelvic cavity and outside the uterus, according to WomansHealth.gov, a service of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Endometriosis can be painful and may compromise a woman's fertility. Meal plans that promote women's health and pain relief can be beneficial to those who have endometriosis. Discuss your options with a doctor before beginning any new way of eating.
Boost Fatty Acid Intake
A meal plan that includes omega-3 fatty acids may help control pain associated with endometriosis, according to Endometriosis.org. Nutritionist Dian Mills explains that a variety of fatty acids, including omega-3, omega-6 and evening primrose oil, can provide some pain relief to women who suffer from overgrowth of endometrial tissue because these essential nutrients reduce inflammation throughout the body.
According to The World's Healthiest Foods, soy products, scallops, salmon, flaxseed products, salmon, tofu and walnuts all contain omega-3 fatty acids and can be incorporated into a heart-healthy meal plan.
Eat Vitamin B-Rich Foods
Antioxidants such as the full range of B vitamins can strengthen cell membranes in the body, making it harder for tissue to attach to membranes, according to Endometriosis.org expert Dr. Mark Perloe. Oxidative stress, the damage caused by free radical toxins in your body, can weaken your cell membranes, increasing the facility with which endometrial tissue can bind to the membranes. Vitamins B1, B6 and B12 may reduce this risk and provide some pain relief as well.
KidsHealth from Nemours suggests including whole grains, low fat dairy, eggs, seafood and chicken in your diet to reap the benefits of B vitamins. Dark leafy vegetables such as romaine lettuce and spinach can also provide you with doses of B.
Add Phytoestrogens
Foods that contain phytoestrogens, compounds that mimic the actions of estrogen hormones in your body, may help you control your disease, according to Holistic-Online.com. As explained by Womanshealth.gov, endometriosis can be linked to hormone-sensitive cancers of the breast and ovaries. Phytoestrogens may help limit the binding of harmful estrogen to cells in your body. Be sure to consult with your physician before beginning a naturopathic diet.
Soybeans and a wide range of other types of beans--pinto, lima, kidney, mung and fava--all contain phytoestrogens and can be a good, non-meat option to include in your diet. Alfalfa sprouts are also high in phytoestrogen compounds.
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