Can diet relieve the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome?

Posted May 15, 2022

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a fairly common condition in women that causes hormonal imbalances. One of the common symptoms of the disease is irregular periods or complete lack of menstruation. GERD can be treated with the help of a gynecologist-reproductive specialist and by implementing healthy habits. Diet and lifestyle choices can greatly affect IUD and the symptoms associated with it.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome and how does it affect the body?

GERD is a health condition in women that affects hormone levels.The condition is relatively common, affecting 1 in 10 women of childbearing age. Typical symptoms are:

Increased levels of androgens (male hormones)
Irregularities in the menstrual cycle
Hair on face and body
Acne
Pigmentation of the skin
Infertility
Weight increase
Thinning hair

Often, people who experience these symptoms do not discuss them with the doctor. People suffering from CPD may not seek medical help until they have difficulty conceiving. IUD can also lead to potential health problems such as depression, heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and endometrial cancer. For this reason, treatment and prevention are of paramount importance.

How does your diet affect polycystic ovary syndrome?

Studies suggest that more than 70% of women with IBS have insulin resistance, which means that the body’s cells stop responding to insulin in a normal way, resulting in blood insulin levels that are above normal. Insulin resistance is common in obese or overweight women with polycystic ovary syndrome who follow an unhealthy diet. Uncontrolled insulin resistance can eventually lead to diabetes. Research shows that more than 50% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome are diabetic or prediabetic before they turn 40. Therefore, it is very important to manage insulin levels, follow a nutritious diet and maintain a healthy weight to alleviate the symptoms of the syndrome. Insulin resistance also means that your body requires higher than normal levels of insulin to manage your blood sugar. High insulin levels also mean that your body stores more fat, leading to weight gain. Patients with IBS also have a slower than normal metabolic rate, which can make it difficult to control food cravings.

(-)Foods to avoid if you have polycystic ovary syndrome

Women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome should avoid the following foods:

Sugary drinks
Fried foods
Processed meats (e.g. sausages, hamburgers and hot dogs)
Processed carbohydrates (e.g. white bread, pasta and pastries)
Processed foods (e.g. cake, candy, sweetened yogurt, ice cream with excess sugar)

(+)Foods to add to your diet

There are certain foods that have been shown to help manage symptoms. A low glycaemic index diet and foods that have anti-inflammatory properties, such as oily fish, greens and berries, are recommended. Some foods that are part of a healthy polycystic ovary diet are:

Fatty fish (e.g. tuna, sardines, mackerel and salmon)
Broccoli and cauliflower
Legumes and lentils
Leafy greens (e.g. spinach, cabbage and artichokes)
Nuts & seeds
Dark chocolate in moderate quantities
Mura