PCOS Diet Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is commonly associated with weight gain and experts agree that a PCOS diet is an essential aspect of any and all treatments.
Although there are many diets for weight loss, a focused diet for PCOS takes into account the insulin resistance and excessive androgenic hormones that are correlated to this condition. PCOS is not caused by dietary deficiencies, so although PCOS and diet are not linked, overweight women with PCOS can control and reverse their symptoms through regular diet and exercise schedules.
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder and one of the leading causes of infertility in women. The principal features of PCOS are Obesity, scalp specific Hair loss, hirsutism (excessive body hair) and chronic anovulation.
A woman suffering from PCOS has elevated levels of insulin which in turn lead to excessive fat storage. In most cases, an infertility diet and successful weight loss restores ovulation and menstruation. However, the problem lies in achieving and sustaining significant weight loss despite the high insulin and blood sugar levels.
It is recommended that a person suffering from PCOS related obesity should have a low glycemic index diet. Most of the carbohydrates in the individual’s diet should come from fruits and vegetables. Avoid white flour products and have breads and cereals that are as unprocessed as far as possible. Bran cereal is considered to be perfect as a breakfast cereal. Make sure that you eat smaller meals more frequently and space out your carbohydrate intake throughout the day as this will ensure the least possible rise in blood sugar levels. A low carbohydrate diet can cause dehydration, so make sure that you have plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid red meat, butter, fried foods and junk food completely as they are very high in unhealthy fats. Make sure that you have nuts, fatty fish or avocados as they will provide your body with healthy essential fatty acids. Make sure that you have plenty of raw vegetables as they are high in fiber and will aid digestion.
Many PCOS patients complain of chronic constipation. Try to avoid prescription medicines and instead opt for a natural fiber supplement such as psyllium husk. Make sure that you include a sufficient amount of proteins in your daily diet as this will help to control blood sugar levels. Exercise will both help to speed up weight loss as well as improve the use of insulin by the body. It is therefore also important that women with PCOS exercise regularly in addition to having a healthy PCOS diet. |
