Influence of diet and physical exercise on endometriosis: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION: Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects 10% of women, causing pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, and infertility, with a strong impact on quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the current scientific evidence on the influence of diet and physical exercise on symptoms and quality of life in women of reproductive age with endometriosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic review of studies published between 2014 and 2024 was conducted using the descriptors endometriosis, exercise, diet, and quality of life in the following databases: MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, Virtual Health Library, Dialnet, and Cochrane Library. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, case reports, letters, and articles without full-text access were excluded. Two independent reviewers performed study selection and data extraction, and methodological quality was assessed according to study design. RESULTS: Of 523 initial records, 13 articles were included (7 on diet and 6 on exercise). Anti-inflammatory dietary interventions and regular physical exercise were associated with reduced symptoms and improved quality of life. DISCUSSION: Diet and exercise may influence the symptoms and well-being of these patients, although the evidence is limited and inconsistent. The included studies show methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes, and variability in interventions and outcomes, limiting internal validity and the generalizability of the findings. CONCLUSION: Diet and exercise constitute complementary strategies to pharmacological and/or surgical treatment within a comprehensive approach to endometriosis; however, more rigorous research is needed to support their long-term benefits.