As the holiday season approaches, a crucial advisory has been issued to around 1.5 million individuals, urging them to be cautious about certain festive indulgences that could lead to discomfort. This warning comes right before the December 25 celebrations, as some traditional holiday foods and drinks might cause more harm than joy for some people.

QENDO, an organization established in 1988, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of those affected by endometriosis, a condition impacting approximately 1.5 million people with wombs, according to Endometriosis UK. Additionally, QENDO extends its support to individuals dealing with adenomyosis, PCOS, and infertility.

In a cautionary message titled “An Endo Friendly Christmas,” experts from QENDO advise individuals with endometriosis to limit or completely avoid foods that are rich in fat, gluten, or dairy. They also highlight the potential risks posed by certain beverages that may exacerbate endometriosis symptoms, potentially leading to increased pain that could leave individuals bedridden.

Dr. Peta Wright, a gynecologist and obstetrician at Eve Health, emphasized the importance of self-care for those with this condition, especially during the bustling holiday period when regular self-care routines might falter. She advised that maintaining vigilance over one’s health is crucial during such times.

To mitigate pain, Dr. Wright recommends limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption, particularly in the evenings. She acknowledges that indulging in Christmas treats is often unavoidable, but stresses the importance of being mindful about reducing inflammatory foods, which for some women include high-fat, gluten, or dairy-rich items. Instead, she suggests focusing on consuming healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits to promote a healthy gut and immune system, thereby reducing inflammation and IBS symptoms that can heighten pain.

Additionally, Jess, the President of QENDO, offers practical advice for the holiday season: “If you’re enjoying a drink this Christmas, make sure to follow it with a glass of water. We know that fizzy, citrus, and alcoholic beverages can aggravate our symptoms.”

“Diluting with water can help ease any impact. Better still, switch the drink to a mint, watermelon water instead.”

It’s also advised to have at least one endo-friendly food option for each meal. “Flares are common this time of year. With all that Xmas food, you don’t want to be spending the festive season in a ball because of something you ate.”

Kristen, it’s fundraising coordinator added that people could opt for mint tea. This “helps digestion” and avoids bloating aka that “dreaded endo belly.”

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is where cells similar to those in the lining of the womb (uterus) grow in other parts of the body. It can have a big impact on your life, and there is no cure, but there are treatments that can help, including surgery.

Endometriosis signs and symptoms

Symptoms can occur during or out of your period. There is no cure or one treatment for all. Because of this, you can manage symptoms through diet, exercise, medication and surgery.

The most common signs and symptoms are:

• severe period pain that stops you from doing your normal activities
• heavy periods – you may need to change your pads or tampons every 1 to 2 hours, or you may bleed through to your clothes
• pain in your lower tummy and back (pelvic area)
• pain when you poo or pee
• pain during or after sex
• bloating – often called ‘endo belly’
• nerve pain
• restless legs
• leg pain
• extreme tiredness (fatigue)
• pain or bleeding in other areas, such as in the chest, which may cause shortness of breath and coughing up blood
• difficulty getting pregnant
• low mood or anxiety

If you need support with endometriosis, you can visit ‘Living with Endometriosis’ online help page via Endometriosis UK here.