Today’s nutrients under the microscope are retinoic acid and omega 3.
Retinoic Acid is created from vitamin A and plays an important role in the immune system, the reproductive system and in the control of sleep.
There is some indication that beta-carotene (the food version of vitamin A) can help tone down the activity of oestradiol, which could help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer resulting from ovarian Endometriosis.
Although there are great food sources for vitamin A and beta-carotene it may be useful to take a supplement to get back to healthy levels.
Cod Liver Oil is the best source of retinoic acid/vitamin A. It has the added benefit of containing essential fatty acids, which may reduce the ability of endometrial cells to survive. And it also contains Vitamin D which plays a key role in the immune system.
Cod Liver Oil comes as a liquid or as capsules.
If ovarian cancer runs in your family (definitely if on your mother’s side), I recommend taking cod liver oil.
Important note: vitamin A overdose is a concern, especially if you are trying to fall pregnant or might already be pregnant. It is important not to exceed 10,000IU Vitamin A (equivalent of 16ml cod liver oil) if you are trying to fall pregnant. If you are taking a multivitamin, check the dose of vitamin A, so you don’t exceed the total maximum dose.
Omega 3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids, meaning the body can’t produce them, and we need to include them in our food or take them as supplements. They are found in fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, trout, and others, as well as flaxseeds, hempseeds, and walnuts.
Omega 3 fatty acids are able to reduce inflammatory reactions by increasing a process where certain immune cells, the macrophages, that are no longer functioning well. It is also thought that parts of the omega 3 is able to make it more difficult for leukocytes and pro-inflammatory cytokines to either be produced or bind to certain receptors and stop
Studies have shown that a diet high in omega 3 fatty acids reduces the risk of getting Endometriosis. And it has a specific beneficial effect for some Endometriosis symptoms, such has anxiety and depression; menstrual pain; and sleep.
There are two types of omega 3 fatty acids: EPA and DHA. When taking an omega 3 supplement it is important to get a supplement that gives you at least 1080mg EPA and 720mg DHA per day and in an EPA:DHA ratio of 1½:1.
If you are considering if changing your diet would help reduce your Endometriosis symptoms and live a normal life, why not book a