The Role of Nutrition on the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis

BACKGROUND: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory gynecological disease affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age and is associated with pelvic pain, infertility, and reduced quality of life. Increasing evidence suggests that diet may influence endometriosis development and symptom severity through modulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormone metabolism. This scoping review aimed to map current evidence on the role of nutrition in endometriosis. METHODS: This scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidelines. PubMed and Scopus were searched for original human studies published in English between 2014 and 2024. Eligible studies examined dietary patterns, food groups, micronutrients, bioactive compounds, body mass index, or fat consumption in relation to endometriosis risk, progression, or symptoms. RESULTS: Diets rich in fruits and vegetables, including Mediterranean and low-FODMAP dietary patterns, were associated with reduced pain symptoms and improved quality of life. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrients, particularly vitamins C and D, zinc, and curcumin, were linked to modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, and cellular proliferation. Evidence regarding dairy intake, gluten, carbohydrates, dietary fat, and BMI was inconsistent or limited. Considerable heterogeneity across study designs and outcome measures was observed. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary factors may contribute to the modulation of endometriosis-related symptoms and underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Nutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties appear promising as complementary, non-invasive strategies; however, methodological heterogeneity highlights the need for high-quality randomized controlled trials.