What to eat and drink to get rid of an ovarian cyst? A comprehensive nutrition guide

October 18, 2025 •

3 min read

Most functional ovarian cysts are benign and resolve on their own, but lifestyle changes, including diet, can help manage symptoms associated with them. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet focusing on anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing foods is a supportive measure for those asking what to eat and drink to get rid of an ovarian cyst.

Quick Summary

A diet emphasizing high-fiber, anti-inflammatory, and omega-3-rich foods can support hormonal balance and manage symptoms of ovarian cysts. Consuming herbal teas and limiting processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can also benefit overall reproductive health.

Key Points

Increase Fiber: Consume plenty of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to help eliminate excess estrogen and balance hormones.
Embrace Anti-Inflammatory Foods: Incorporate fatty fish, nuts, and spices like turmeric to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms.
Choose Lean Protein: Opt for chicken, fish, or tofu instead of red meat to support hormonal balance.
Hydrate with Beneficial Beverages: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas like spearmint, ginger, and chamomile to support hormone regulation and reduce inflammation.
Avoid Inflammatory Triggers: Limit refined carbohydrates, processed foods, and high sugar intake, which can worsen inflammation and disrupt hormones.
Manage Hormonal Fluctuations: Focus on foods like cruciferous vegetables and lean protein to help the body process and eliminate excess estrogen.
Consult a Professional: Always seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cysts, as dietary changes are a supportive measure, not a cure.

The Role of Diet in Managing Ovarian Cysts

While no specific food can guarantee to completely eliminate an ovarian cyst, diet can play a supportive role in managing symptoms and influencing hormonal balance. Many ovarian cysts are linked to underlying hormonal fluctuations, particularly in conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). By focusing on a diet that reduces inflammation, regulates insulin, and supports the body's natural processes, you can potentially reduce discomfort and support your overall reproductive health.

Nutrient-Rich Foods to Emphasize

High-Fiber Foods Fiber is crucial for regulating hormones, especially by helping to eliminate excess estrogen from the body. This reduces the risk of hormonal imbalances that can contribute to cyst formation. Consuming plenty of fiber also aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.

Whole Grains: Brown rice, oats, quinoa, and barley
Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, and beans
Fruits: Berries, pears, apples, and oranges
Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts
Nuts and Seeds: Flaxseed, chia seeds, and almonds

Anti-Inflammatory Foods Inflammation can exacerbate ovarian cyst symptoms, including pain and discomfort. Incorporating foods known for their anti-inflammatory properties can help mitigate these symptoms. These foods are packed with antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines, rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocados
Herbs and Spices: Turmeric, ginger, and garlic
Leafy Greens: Spinach and kale
Fruits and Berries: Blueberries and strawberries

Hormone-Balancing Foods Certain foods contain compounds that assist the body in metabolizing and eliminating excess hormones. This is particularly important for hormone-sensitive conditions like PCOS, which is often associated with ovarian cysts.

Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts contain Indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which helps process excess estrogen.
Lean Protein: Chicken, fish, and tofu provide essential nutrients without the inflammatory properties associated with red meat.
Fermented Foods: Sauerkraut and kimchi support gut health, which plays a role in hormone metabolism.

Beverages to Support Ovarian Health

Staying properly hydrated is essential for flushing toxins from the body and promoting overall wellness. In addition to plain water, several teas offer supportive benefits.

Spearmint Tea: Research suggests that spearmint tea can have anti-androgen effects, which may benefit women with PCOS by reducing testosterone levels.
Ginger Tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, ginger tea can help reduce pain and cramping.
Chamomile Tea: This herbal tea is praised for its relaxing, anti-inflammatory properties, which can help ease anxiety and discomfort.
Green Tea: Contains catechins, which are potent antioxidants that may help balance hormones.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

Minimizing or eliminating certain foods can help reduce inflammation and prevent hormonal disruptions. These are often highly processed or high in sugar and unhealthy fats.

Refined Carbohydrates and Sugar: White bread, pastries, and sugary drinks cause insulin spikes and increase inflammation.
Processed and Fried Foods: These foods are often high in trans fats and additives that can promote inflammation.
Red Meat and Saturated Fats: Can increase inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance.
Excessive Caffeine and Alcohol: Can elevate estrogen levels and disrupt hormonal balance.
High-Fat Dairy Products: Some women find that high-fat dairy can worsen hormonal imbalances.

A Comparison of Dietary Choices for Ovarian Cysts


Foods to Emphasize	Foods to Avoid
High-fiber foods (whole grains, legumes)	Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta)
Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)	Red meat and processed meats
Lean protein (chicken, tofu)	Fried foods and saturated fats
Colorful fruits and vegetables	Sugary snacks and desserts
Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil)	Excessive caffeine (coffee)
Nuts and seeds (flaxseed, almonds)	Alcoholic beverages
Herbal teas (spearmint, ginger)	Full-fat dairy products (for some)
Plenty of water	Processed juices and sodas

Conclusion

While a healthy diet is a valuable tool for managing the symptoms and hormonal fluctuations associated with ovarian cysts, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Most ovarian cysts are harmless and disappear on their own, but persistent or severe symptoms warrant a consultation with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. By adopting a diet rich in anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing foods, and avoiding certain inflammatory triggers, you can take a proactive step toward supporting your reproductive health and feeling better.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

For more information on the links between diet and PCOS-related cysts, a study on the impact of omega-3 fatty acids may be insightful.

Frequently Asked Questions

No single food can get rid of an ovarian cyst. However, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, fiber, and omega-3s can help manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and support hormonal balance, which can positively impact ovarian health.

Herbal teas such as spearmint, chamomile, and ginger tea are often recommended. Spearmint may help reduce androgen levels in PCOS, while chamomile and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe pain and cramping.

Focus on healthy, unsaturated fats found in sources like fatty fish (salmon, tuna), avocados, olive oil, and nuts. These fats contain omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and support hormonal health.

Some women with ovarian cysts, especially those with PCOS, find that reducing high-fat dairy intake helps manage hormonal imbalances. Low-fat milk and yogurt are often considered safe and can be a source of important nutrients.

High-fiber foods help regulate hormones by assisting the body in eliminating excess estrogen. This process helps maintain a healthier hormonal balance and can be beneficial in managing conditions like ovarian cysts.

Lean protein sources like chicken, fish, and tofu are encouraged. However, some health guidelines suggest limiting or avoiding red meat and processed meats, which can be pro-inflammatory.

It's best to limit or avoid refined carbohydrates (white bread), sugary foods and beverages, processed foods, fried foods, and excessive alcohol and caffeine, as these can increase inflammation and disrupt hormones.