Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Peer-reviewed

The Role of Nutrition on the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

Dominika Osińska; Andrzej Woźniak; Sławomir Woźniak

Nutrients · 2026

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Summary

This PRISMA-ScR scoping review synthesised evidence from 2014–2024 on the relationship between nutrition and endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting ~10% of reproductive-age women. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables, Mediterranean patterns, and low-FODMAP approaches showed promise for reducing pain and improving quality of life, whilst antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients (vitamins C and D, zinc, curcumin) were linked to modulation of key pathogenic mechanisms. The authors note substantial methodological heterogeneity across studies and call for high-quality RCTs to establish causal effects.

Regional applicability

The review synthesised international evidence and is broadly applicable to United Kingdom clinical practice and dietary guidance for endometriosis management. However, transferability of specific dietary recommendations depends on UK-specific implementation through further rigorous trials and adaptation to the UK food environment and healthcare context.

Key measures

Dietary patterns (Mediterranean, low-FODMAP), individual nutrients (vitamins C and D, zinc, curcumin), food groups (fruits, vegetables, dairy), fat consumption, BMI, and endometriosis-related outcomes (pain symptoms, quality of life, inflammation markers, oxidative stress).

Outcomes reported

This scoping review mapped evidence on dietary patterns, food groups, micronutrients, and bioactive compounds in relation to endometriosis risk, progression, and symptom severity. The review identified associations between specific nutrients and dietary patterns with pain symptoms, quality of life, and underlying pathogenic mechanisms including inflammation and oxidative stress.

Theme
Nutrition & health
Subject
Dietary patterns & chronic disease
Study type
Scoping Review
Study design
Scoping review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Human clinical
DOI
10.3390/nu18040646
Catalogue ID
NRmu54hilv-00g

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