Anti-inflammatory diet as an element supporting the treatment of selected gynecological diseases — literature review

Abstract

Low-grade chronic inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many gynecological diseases, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and endometriosis. The aim of this paper was to present the assumptions of the anti-inflammatory diet and review the current state of knowledge about its potential importance in these diseases. An anti-inflammatory diet based on increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and polyphenols, while reducing the intake of pro-inflammatory foods, has the potential to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine levels and alleviate clinical symptoms. The Mediterranean diet has the best documented dietary model with anti-inflammatory effects. Available scientific data indicate the beneficial effect of dietary interventions on the hormonal and metabolic profile of PCOS, pain severity in uterine fibroids and endometriosis and the exacerbation of somatic and affective discomfort in PMS/PMDD. However, the quality of scientific evidence remains variable, and an anti-inflammatory diet should be considered an adjunct to standard treatment, rather than an alternative to it. Further randomized clinical trials are required to conclusively define the role of individual components of the anti-inflammatory diet in this disease group.