Endometriosis and Minerals

As we mentioned in previous articles, endometriosis growing somewhere else other than the endometrium also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle by building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. Besides conventional medical treatment, nutritional supplements also play an important role in treating endometriosis. In this article, we will discuss the relationship between minerals and women with endometriosis.

Most women with endometriosis in the abdomen usually have heavy blood flow during menstruation caused by deficiency of minerals in the blood.
1. Zinc
Zinc is a powerful antioxidant. Besides protecting the liver from damage caused by excessive chemicals such as iron and copper it also contributes to protein synthesis, cell replication, and strengthens our immune system. A strong immune system is necessary to fight against the forming of free radicals, and prevents endometrial cells traveling in the blood that try to adhere to other organs causing endometriosis implants and adhesion.

2. Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for women with endometriosis because it helps to convert essential fatty acid to balance the prostaglandins hormones that control the uterus muscles. Over-production of some kinds of prostaglandins will cause an overactive uterus resulting in menstrual cramps.

3. Calcium
With 2 to 1 ratio with magnesium, calcium helps to increase the absorption of itself and strengthens bone density. Deficiency of calcium causes irregular muscle tone and menstrual cramps.


4. Iron
Iron helps to increase production of red blood cells and oxygen levels that are essential for every cell in the body. Women with heavy menstrual flow are likely to have iron deficiency because their body cannot produce enough blood to cover those lost during menstruation, causing a weakened immune system resulting in the forming of endometriosis and free radicals.

6. Potassium
Potassium is vital for muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and balancing fluid in our body. Deficiency of potassium causes nervous system disorders, anxiety and depression, bloating and fluid retention.