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Today, I’m thrilled to dive into one of my favorite topics: gut health! You might be thinking, how is this related to endometriosis? Well, gut health is crucial for both the progression, healing, and managing endometriosis. Endo is not just a reproductive disease, but a full body disease. Understanding and addressing your gut health is fundamental to tackling endometriosis effectively.
In today’s episode, you’ll hear:
-How endometriosis is rooted in immune dysfunction
-The gut-immune connection and how most of your immune system resides in your gut, influencing immune responses throughout your body, including in the context of endometriosis.
-How your gut can play a role in systemic inflammation in your body.
-How leaky gut contributes to food sensitivities and increased inflammation.
-Addressing food sensitivities through techniques like food sensitivity testing, adopting diets like Paleo AIP, and adding gut healing practices can help pinpoint triggers and alleviate symptoms.
-How gut infections like dysbiosis can trigger immune reactions and worsen endometriosis symptoms.
-Self-blame does not help you heal yourself; it is about feeling empowered to take steps to better health.
-How digestion impacts hormone imbalances, and ways to help your digestive system function better like chewing your food properly, drinking water, and daily movement.
I love talking about gut health, and focusing on it has truly transformed both my own health and that of my clients. By improving your gut health, it can alleviate many endometriosis symptoms. Addressing one helps manage the other, as they are closely linked. Understanding your gut empowers you to approach your health comprehensively. This is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Resources:
Ep. 3: What is Functional Nutrition and How Does It Help With Endo?
Ep. 5: What is Endometriosis Really?
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only. This may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.
Episode details and full transcription
Gut Health: The Hidden Key to Managing Endometriosis
Understanding the Gut-Endo Connection
Endometriosis is a complex, often painful condition that affects many women worldwide. While traditionally seen through the narrow lens of reproductive health, emerging evidence spotlights a much broader perspective, revealing deep-rooted ties to immune dysfunction and gut health.
Today, we dive into the gut’s pivotal role in hormone balance, nutrient absorption, and inflammation – all of which are essential to understanding and managing endometriosis.
The Immune System and Managing Endometriosis
Endometriosis is not just a reproductive disorder; it’s a full-body disease. The immune system is supposed to clear away endometrial-like cells before they develop into problematic lesions. However, when endometriosis is present, this process is impeded, leading to pain and other debilitating symptoms.
Addressing immune health is paramount, and since a significant portion of the immune system is housed in the gut, it’s here that our journey toward better endo management begins.
Estrogen Overload – A Culprit in Endo Flares
It’s a lesser-known fact that chronic constipation can hinder estrogen elimination, causing it to re-enter the bloodstream, disrupting hormonal balance, and possibly exacerbating endo symptoms. So, how can we support our bodies in maintaining hormonal harmony? Let’s explore.
The Daily Detox: Promoting Bowel Movements
Ensuring daily bowel movements can profoundly impact hormone levels and endometriosis symptomatology. Chewing food thoroughly, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity are simple but effective strategies to keep things moving in the GI tract.
Inflammation: The Endo-Inflamed Body
Endometriosis elicits a persistent inflammatory response that burdens the body. This inflammation is often compounded by diet and a compromised gut lining – or leaky gut – which then perpetuates immune dysfunction and inflammation.
Uncovering Hidden Food Sensitivities
Hidden food sensitivities are notorious for causing silent inflammation in the body. While over-the-counter tests offer a starting point, a professional food sensitivity test like MRT provides a more comprehensive view of potential dietary triggers.
The Elimination Path to Discovery
Dietary approaches such as the paleo AIP diet can also unearth food sensitivities while supporting gut healing. By methodically removing and reintroducing foods, individuals gain clarity on what contributes to their endo discomfort and inflammation.
Balancing The Microbiome
Our gut is home to a vast microbial ecosystem that, when imbalanced, leads to dysbiosis. Identifying and treating gut infections to restore equilibrium is of utmost importance! A balanced microbiome can mean the difference between persistent symptoms and significant relief.
Self-Compassion in Gut Healing
It is important to approach your health journey with self-compassion and kindness. Rather than succumbing to guilt over past diet choices, adopting an empowered mindset promotes proactive steps toward recovery.
Estrogen Dominance and Managing Endometriosis
The complex interplay between estrogen levels and endometriosis is a focal point in understanding the condition. Estrogen dominance can foster lesion growth and contribute to a litany of symptoms, many of which relate back to gut health.
Trust Your Gut, Support Managing Endometriosis
The old adage “trust your gut” takes on a literal meaning for those battling endometriosis. By tuning into gut health, you can gain invaluable insights into managing your symptoms and improving your overall quality of life. Embark on a journey of gut healing and reclaim control over your endometriosis – your body and your future self will thank you.
