Can a gluten-free diet reduce the symptoms of endometriosis? (Part 1)

Endometriosis occurs when cells in the inner wall of the uterus (endometrium) move away from their original location and migrate, mostly into the abdominal cavity, responding equally to hormonal control, even during the menstrual cycle.

Most common symptoms are pelvic pain, particularly in the peri-menstrual phase; painful menstruation; pain during sexual intercourse, accentuated in the pre and postmenstrual periods; irregularity of menstrual cycles; severe bowel problems; and infertility.

In a 2012 study that followed endometriosis patients for 12 months shows that 75 percent of them reported a significant reduction in symptoms with a gluten-free diet; 25 percent reported that they had noticed no worsening of symptoms. None had reported worsening of symptoms.

Kostantinos N. et al. Effectivness of dietary intervention in the treatment of endometriosis: a systematic review Reproductive sciences 2022

Dr. Elena Martucci

Biologist Nutritionist Specialist in Food Science