Endometriosis is a challenging condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside the uterus, causing pain and other symptoms. In some cases, the endometriosis symptoms can be largely minimized and reversed through nutrition, lifestyle, and supplements. Even women who receive surgical treatment need to maintain nutrition and supplemental support to prevent the endometriosis from returning. The goals of supplements for endometriosis are to rebalance the immune system, reduce inflammation, and balance estrogen and progesterone. Here’s a look at some of the best supplements that may help manage endometriosis:
Best supplements for Endometriosis
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and certain plant sources like flaxseed, have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties that can help reduce inflammation associated with endometriosis. They may also alleviate menstrual pain and improve overall reproductive health.
Curcumin (Turmeric)
Another supplement to consider is curcumin. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is well-known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It also balances estrogen, which can help reduce pelvic pain and inflammation in endometriosis.
Vitamin D
Many individuals with endometriosis have been found to have lower levels of vitamin D, which is important for immune function and inflammation regulation. Adequate vitamin D levels may help shrink endometriosis lesions and manage symptoms.
Magnesium glycinate
Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in muscle relaxation and pain management. Additionally, it helps detoxification, gut healing, and hormone balance. It may help alleviate menstrual cramps and pelvic pain associated with endometriosis.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC)
NAC is an antioxidant that may help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. It decreases abnormal cell proliferation. Additionally, it has been studied for its potential to improve symptoms of endometriosis.
B-complex vitamins
B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin), are essential for nerve function and may help alleviate pain associated with endometriosis. B6 is involved in histamine balance, which is important for proper estrogen levels.
Chasteberry (Vitex)
Chasteberry is an herb that may help balance hormones by influencing the pituitary gland. It is often used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and may benefit those with endometriosis.
Green Tea Extract
Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Green tea extract may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of endometriosis.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that is also a strong antioxidant. It is also anti-inflammatory, which helps reduce pain. Melatonin has been shown to reduce endometrial tissue growth.
Supplements and medications for endometriosis are available only with a prescription:
Some medications work cooperatively with the body. These do not simply “band-aid” the pain, rather they actively work to correct immune dysfunction and hormonal imbalance.
Natural Progesterone
Bio-identical progesterone, when used after ovulation, suppresses endometriosis and helps normalize immune function. It also decreases excess estrogen activity to help reduce endometriosis and associated symptoms.
Low Dose Naltrexone
Low-dose naltrexone works on the opioid receptors in the body and corrects immune dysfunction. It can help minimize and reverse endometriosis lesions.
Important Considerations when choosing supplements for endometriosis:
Consultation with a Healthcare Provider:
Before starting any new supplements, especially if you are on medications or have other health conditions, consult with a healthcare provider knowledgeable about natural medicine and women’s health.
Quality of Supplements:
Choose supplements from reputable brands to ensure quality and purity. Unfortunately, many brands can cause more harm than good due to other substances in the supplement. Additionally, not all brands have regulations on storing and shipping practices, which may result in lower quality and effectiveness.
For professional-grade, highest-quality supplements, check out Dr. Whelan’s Fullscript Medicinary. Here you can find the best supplements for endometriosis.
Dosage information:
Consult with a trained healthcare professional to know which of these supplements (and at which dose) would work best for your unique physiology.
Lifestyle Factors:
Supplements should complement a healthy diet and lifestyle, including regular exercise and stress management. Remember, “you can’t ‘out supplement’ a bad diet.”
Managing endometriosis often requires a multifaceted approach, including medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes, dietary supplements. By incorporating these supplements under the guidance of a healthcare provider, individuals with endometriosis may find relief from symptoms and support their overall health and well-being.
Remember, what works best can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to find a personalized approach that suits your needs and preferences.
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About Dr. Whelan
Dr Whelan has been a licensed naturopathic doctor in Vermont since 2019 and Creighton Model FertilityCare Medical Consultant with the FertilityCare Systems of America. She specializes in women’s hormonal health, helping her clients achieve optimal fertility, better moods, greater energy, deeper sleep, and easier, predictable, pain-free periods. Dr. Whelan treats teens and women of reproductive age throughout perimenopause and early post-menopause.
Dr. Whelan integrates centuries-old wisdom that regards nature as the most effective healer with contemporary health research. Her approach is rooted in enhancing the body’s innate (and extraordinary) healing capacities. She utilizes treatment modalities that include nutrition, lifestyle medicine, botanical medicines, and cooperative hormone replacement therapies.
Selecting Dr. Whelan as your women’s health expert ensures you receive a doctor who listens to your concerns, identifies the root causes of your health issues, and supports you with preventive care to help you achieve your best possible life.