Endometriosis: common drink could reduce symptoms

Endometriosis affects roughly one and a half million women in the UK. Although there’s no cure for the condition, many treatments such as ibuprofen and paracetamol are used to help manage

the symptoms. But one option for women might be a form of green tea that has anti-inflammatory properties that might help. Osteopath and registered nutrition therapist Sarah Smith MsC

explained that based on her understanding of available research, a specific type of green tea extract can “reduce growth and development of lesions”. “Epigallocatechin-gallate-3 is a

powerful extract of green tea. Whilst many may sip away at it knowing 'it's good for you', few may also understand it can help with symptoms of endometriosis… a painful and

debilitating condition that affects women all over the world,” she explained. The typical signs of endometriosis include painful bowel movements, painful periods, and tiredness. READ MORE: 

YOUR IBS COULD ACTUALLY BE SIBO SAYS EXPERT - 'CAUSE SYSTEMIC ISSUES' IF LEFT UNTREATED These symptoms can be caused by the lesions Smith spoke about: patches of tissue that are

similar to tissue in the womb that grows in areas outside of the uterus. These lesions are thought to be connected in some way to inflammation, although the NHS concludes that the “cause of

endometriosis is not known”. Green tea specifically contains a chemical called catechins, which appear to have a positive anti-inflammatory effect. DON'T MISS  One study from 2018 found

that a chemical called chrysin in chamomile tea also suppressed the growth of endometrial cells. Ginger tea was also found to help reduce menstruation-related pain, meaning ginger could

also help with endometriosis. WHAT ARE THE OTHER SYMPTOMS OF ENDOMETRIOSIS? Endometriosis can affect women of any age. Its main symptoms include pelvic pain that gets worse during your

period. It may also cause pain while you’re pooing during your period and feeling sick. Other treatments found to help people with endometriosis include surgery to cut away endometriosis

tissue, as well as hormone medicines. Some ways to prevent endometriosis are to exercise regularly and avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol.