Mediterranean Diet Linked to 94% Lower Odds of Endometriosis

A recent study has revealed a significant link between adherence to a Mediterranean diet and a lower risk of developing endometriosis. The study, conducted in Iran, involved 313 women and found that those who closely followed a Mediterranean-style diet had a 94% lower odds of developing the disease. The diet, rich in fruits, nuts, vegetables, fish, and legumes, was found to protect against systemic inflammation and hormonal imbalance, which are key factors in the progression of endometriosis.

Key Takeaways:

Women who closely followed a Mediterranean diet had a 94% lower odds of developing endometriosis (adjusted OR = 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.15).
High intake of fruits, nuts, fish, vegetables, and legumes was associated with a lower risk of endometriosis (OR = 0.09, 0.18, 0.16, and 0.26, respectively).
Women who ate more meat and dairy faced up to ten times higher odds of developing the disease.
Anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, olive oil, fish, legumes, and whole grains may help reduce systemic inflammation and modulate hormone levels that influence endometrial growth.
The study's findings support promoting plant-based, nutrient-dense diets as part of comprehensive women's health strategies.

Statistics:

94% lower odds of endometriosis associated with adherence to a Mediterranean diet (adjusted OR = 0.06; 95% CI 0.02-0.15).
9.21 average Mediterranean diet score for women without endometriosis, compared to 5.63 for women with the disease.
10-fold increase in odds of developing endometriosis for women who ate more meat and dairy products.
313 total participants in the study.
105 cases of endometriosis among the participants.
208 controls without endometriosis among the participants.

Sources:

* Mediterranean diet adherence and healthy diet indicator might decrease odds of endometriosis - (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-025-20621-6)
* Source-Medindia Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Medindia.