The Mediterranean Diet may reduce endometriosis-related pain, including dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, dyschezia, and overall pain. A higher intake of all types of green vegetables and fresh fruit may decrease the risk of developing endometriosis. Additionally, fish, and extra-virgin olive oil, included in the Mediterranean diet, have anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, extra-virgin olive oil has additional benefits from oleocanthal, a substance with similar properties to ibuprofen due to its structure. The Mediterranean diet contains fiber-rich foods that help with digestion and magnesium-rich foods that may benefit endometriosis by promoting relaxation of the uterus by regulating the effects of calcium. Dairy is rich in calcium and is associated with a decreased risk of developing endometriosis, especially when three servings are consumed daily.

The Western Diet contains foods high in omega-6 fatty acids, such as red meat. These foods correlate with increased estrogen, steroids concentrations, inflammation, and endometriosis development. A greater endometriosis risk is associated with red meat consumption, including beef, ham, and other red meat. Additionally, a ratio of higher omega-6 to omega-3 may exacerbate endometriosis symptoms by causing inflammation, especially when consumed with simple sugars. Moreover, the shift in the ω6: ω3 ratio has increased the presence of autoimmune and hormonal disorders and menstrual pain in women with endometriosis. The Western Diet is high in refined vegetable oils and low in seafood and fresh fruits and vegetables, contributing to an increase in omega-6 fatty acids. See essential fatty acids for more information.

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are observed in endometriosis and are likely factors in clinical manifestations, including pain and fertility-related issues. Antioxidants balance oxidative stress and are anti-inflammatory. Thus, antioxidants such as vitamin C and vitamin E are beneficial for managing endometriosis-associated pain by suppressing an inflammatory response seen in chronic inflammatory conditions such as endometriosis.

Certain plant compounds may have a beneficial effect in managing pain associated with endometriosis. For example, resveratrol is a plant compound found in peanuts, berries, soy, grapes, and wine. It may have a role in endometriosis by decreasing pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea. Moreover, polydatin, a component of resveratrol, may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-chemotactic effects on endometriotic pain.

Sulforaphane is found in cruciferous vegetables, including brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. Sulforaphane may have a beneficial role in endometriosis by regulating inflammation and inducing apoptosis, which is essential for maintaining tissue homeostasis.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is found in onions, garlic, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and wheat germ. NAC may benefit endometriosis by reducing inflammation and regulating oxidative stress and cell proliferation in endometriotic cells. NAC supplementation of 600 mg three times a day may help reduce the size of endometriotic cysts.

Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound found in turmeric, may have beneficial effects on endometriosis due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects.

Quercetin is a dietary flavanol found in various fruits and vegetables including cauliflower, onions, chili peppers, lettuce, and apple skin. Quercetin may benefit endometriosis by regulating endometriotic cell proliferation.