LET’S SHED LIGHT ON ENDOMETRIOSIS
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month and, during this occasion, many cities light up in yellow, the symbolic colour of this pathology.
This colour reflects what is indicated in the slogan of this month “Let’s shed light on endometriosis”, indicating the fact that endometriosis is still a little-known disease and difficult to diagnose. In fact, it is estimated that the average time required to obtain a diagnosis varies between 7 and 8 years.
WHAT IS ENDOMETRIOSIS?
Endometriosis is a highly disabling pathology for women, characterized by the presence of endometrial cells in other sites than the uterine cavity, such as the ovary, peritoneum (the membrane that lines the abdominal and pelvic cavities), and bladder.
The most frequent symptoms are chronic pelvic pain, pain during urination, gastrointestinal symptoms, pain with intercourse, fatigue and infertility1.
Endometriosis is a more common disease than one might think. In fact, it is estimated that over 3 million women are affected in Italy, with an incidence of 1 in 10 women.
The diagnosis, in most cases, comes after a long period, with severe repercussions on the quality of life and on the woman’s work activity.
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIET IN ENDOMETRIOSIS
Choosing an appropriate diet represents a valid aid in relieving painful symptoms in case of endometriosis. It is in fact important to follow an anti-inflammatory diet, characterized by an increase in the intake of fibres,Omega 3 fatty acids and a reduction in the consumption of meat (especially red meat), sugars, refined products, fried foods, and alcohol.
In addition to a controlled diet, in case of endometriosis, it is often useful to take food supplements based on substances characterized by a marked antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, such as N-acetyl cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid and bromelain.
DID YOU KNOW THAT…
Endometriosis is represented by the sunflower, a flower which by its nature symbolizes light and life and is an emblem of hope for all women who live every day with this pathology which is still “in the shadows” and little known.
Discover Pizeta Pharma’s proposal based on N-acetyl cysteine, alpha-lipoic acid and bromelain
Bibliography:
[1] Ministry of Health website: www.salute.gov.it
