Endometriosis is an extremely common disorder of the reproductive system in women of menstruating age. It is typically thought to be an hormonal disorder, but there’s actually a lot more to it than that. Abnormalities of the immune system are seen in women with the condition. Gut bug imbalances and gut inflammation are typical drivers of the immune problems.

Many women mistake the symptoms of endometriosis for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This is because symptoms can be very similar and many women suffer with both conditions.

Endometriosis occurs when reproductive tissue gets planted in places it’s not supposed to be, such as the fallopian tubes, the ovaries or the bowel. These endometrial deposits grow and bleed each month, but inside the pelvic and abdominal cavities where there is no way out. This abnormal internal bleeding can cause cysts, blood clots and scar tissue on the bowel, the bladder, the ovaries and the outside of the uterus and fallopian tubes. The primary symptom that women experience is debilitating cramps during their time of the month.

If endometrial tissue grows on the digestive organs, this can cause digestive symptoms that are typical of irritable bowel syndrome. These include abdominal bloating, abdominal cramps, constipation, diarrhea or alternating bowel habits. Many women never see their doctor about these symptoms; therefore the real cause is never determined. Endometriosis usually also causes painful menstrual cramps and heavy menstrual bleeding but for some women those symptoms are fairly mild compared to the digestive symptoms mentioned above.

New research has shown that a low FODMAP diet can offer symptom relief for women with digestive problems caused by endometriosis. FODMAPs are fermentable fibers found in some vegetables, fruits, legumes and dairy products. In some people FODMAPs can cause irritable bowel syndrome. Examples of foods high in FODMAPs are legumes, broccoli and onion.

A low FODMAP diet can be very helpful for reducing digestive discomfort, but it’s important to address the reason why high FODMAP foods cause unpleasant symptoms. It is usually because of digestive enzyme deficiency, gut bug imbalances and leaky gut syndrome.

The following tips may help improve symptoms:

  • Consume more fiber. Fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds are high in fiber to support the elimination of excess estrogen from the body. Fiber also feeds your good gut bacteria to promote a strong immune system. Taking Fibertone is an easy, convenient way to up your fiber intake.
  • Avoid or minimize dairy products. Some women find that they feel much better if they avoid all dairy products, this is likely because cow’s milk products can have undesirable hormone influences on endometriosis. Cow’s milk can be easily substituted for rice milk, almond milk or coconut milk. Yoghurt can be substituted for coconut yoghurt. Dairy products are mucus forming and can be quite inflammatory to the body.
  • Reduce sugar and refined carbohydrates. Sugar and high carb foods encourage overgrowth of yeast, Candida and bad gut bugs like Streptococcus and Clostridia species. These bad bugs can inflame the gut lining, causing leaky gut. The essential oils of clove, oregano and thyme found in BactoClear capsules have natural antimicrobial properties.
  • Heal your gut lining. It is important to reduce inflammation, heal and seal the gut lining, so that it’s a better barrier and prevents gut wastes from entering the bloodstream and over stimulating your immune system. All of the ingredients required to achieve this are found in Gut Health powder. Regularly consuming bone broth is also extremely helpful.
  • Take a probiotic. Choosing an appropriate probiotic, such as Floratone is recommended for endometriosis as it colonises the gut with beneficial bacteria to ensure strong immunity. Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, apple cider vinegar and kefir are also excellent sources of probiotics

Reference

The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any condition.