Positive Health Online

Abstract

MATHIAS and colleagues, Woman's Hospital of Texas, Houston 77054 USA investigated the neuromuscular activity of the gastrointestinal tract in women with endometriosis to assess the effects of diet and drug therapy upon symptoms and to assess the bacterial overgrowth commonly associated with these nerve diseases.

Background

Methodology

: 50 women with endometriosis documented by laparoscopy and gastrointestinal (GI) tract symptoms characterised by chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, early satiety, bloating and distension and altered bowel habits participated in this prospective study, which took place in a clinical centre for women's health. Motility of the GI tract was recorded and bacterial overgrowth assessed. Treatment included dietary changes, such as reduction of glycaemic carbohydrates, balancing with omega 9 oils, the elimination of caffeine and tyramine-containing foods, the addition of omega-3 fatty acids and drug therapy with clonazepam (0.25 mg 3 times per day).

Results

All 50 women demonstrated a characteristic motility change. 40 of the women showed bacterial overgrowth. There was a significant reduction in the total symptoms score following 8 weeks of treatment.

Conclusion

The results of the study suggest that endometriosis and GI tract symptoms are a result of the dysfunction of hollow organs. The correction of the biochemical imbalance of the eicosanoid system and the hypersecretion of insulin resulting from excessive intake of glycaemic carbohydrates and lack of essential fatty acids significantly decreased symptoms in patients with endometriosis and associated neuromuscular disease of the GI tract.

References

Mathias JR et al. Relation of endometriosis and neuromuscular disease of the gastrointestinal tract: new insights. Fertil Steril 70(1|): 81-8 Jul 1998.