Post date: 2023-01-09

Polycystic ovary syndrome: how nutrition can help

Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder that affects an average of 8.7 to 17% of women of reproductive age. Although its etiology is poorly understood, the characteristic manifestations of this syndrome can cause discomfort and significantly reduce the quality of life of these women.

Polycystic ovary syndrome: how nutrition can help

Polycystic ovary syndrome is an endocrine disorder that affects an average of 8.7 to 17% of women of reproductive age. Although its etiology is poorly understood, the characteristic manifestations of this syndrome can cause discomfort and significantly reduce the quality of life of these women.

According to the Rotterdam diagnostic criteria (2003; 2012), women with PCOS must present at least two of the criteria: clinical and/or laboratory hyperandrogenism, oligoamenorrhoea (absence of menstruation for 90 days or more), morphological polycystic ovary features.

In addition, the development of metabolic and hormonal abnormalities that are directly related to obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia is very common. It is worth noting that all these factors can promote the development of cardiovascular complications. Which ultimately creates the need for nutritional intervention.

How can diet help in PCOS?

As mentioned above, women who have PCOS often have insulin resistance, are overweight, among other metabolic abnormalities. It is important to note that hyperinsulinemia can worsen the situation and promote an increase in androgen production in the ovary. Nutrition therefore plays a vital role in improving the quality of life and symptoms these women experience, as dietary habits and lifestyle are directly related to the progression of complications of this syndrome.

What strategies should be adopted?

Few women are aware of the fact that a simple lifestyle change can make a big difference in improving reported symptoms. And that, in addition, the food taken can be an important risk factor for the increase in complications. Consult Homeopathy Doctor for PCOS in Faridabad

The picture of hyperinsulinemia may be enough to worsen altered androgen secretion. Therefore, nutritional measures aimed at glycemic control are necessary in this patient to reduce insulin resistance and improve insulin sensitivity.

If you are overweight, weight loss is strongly recommended. Thus, a reduction of 5 to 10% would be sufficient to reduce cardiometabolic risks and promote improvement in menstrual function. Evidence suggests that low-carbohydrate diets can improve the metabolic profile of patients. In this case, it is ideal to reduce the consumption of refined carbohydrates in particular and to control the index and glycemic load of meals. Mediterranean and low-carb strategies may be feasible.

Nutrition is increasingly proving to be the answer to many health problems, but it does not act alone. Last but not least, it is necessary to limit physical inactivity, follow strategies supporting quality sleep and daily intake of high-quality nutritional foods. In other words: diet, physical exercise, sleep and behavior change, the four pillars that form the basis of a healthy life.

PCOS Lifestyle Modification by Aura Homeopathy

Nutritional Guidelines for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome:

To relieve the effects of PCOS, try:

Maintain a healthy weight. Losing weight can lower insulin and androgen levels. It can also restore ovulation. Ask your health care provider about a weight management program if you need one. Meet our Team of Expert Homeopathy Doctor For PCOS which can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Choose foods with a low glycemic index more often

The glycemic index (GI) of a food measures how quickly it raises blood sugar. The higher the index number, the faster and higher it raises blood sugar. Because women with PCOS may have insulin sensitivity, their doctors may recommend a low-carb diet. However, there are ways to still choose carbs, such as low-glycemic whole grains and fruit, without spiking your blood sugar.

Here is a short list of foods according to their glycemic index (GI):

Low GI foods (< 55)

Whole grain starches (e.g. brown rice, dark bread)

banana (greenish)

Cantaloupe

Grapefruit

 

Foods with a medium high GI (> 55)

Refined starches (eg white rice, white bread)

banana (overripe)

Grapes

Orange juice

Even so, foods with a high glycemic index are not prohibited. Pair them with other foods high in protein or fat to minimize blood sugar effects. For example, eat grapes (high GI) with nuts or cheese.

Cut back on carbs. A diet high in carbohydrates can raise insulin levels. Ask your PCOS Doctor, if a low-carb diet might help if you have PCOS. Choose complex carbohydrates that raise blood sugar more slowly. Complex carbohydrates are found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and cooked dry beans and peas.

To be active. Exercise helps lower blood sugar. If you have PCOS, increasing your daily activity and exercising regularly can treat or even prevent insulin resistance. Being active can also help you keep your weight under control and avoid developing diabetes.

Probiotics – Your digestive system is critical to managing PCOS symptoms. The gut helps manage inflammation, promotes the absorption of nutrients like magnesium, iron and calcium, and removes and restores hormones. Here are some natural probiotics: yogurt, fermented tea (kombucha), sauerkraut, and cucumbers.

Avoid Refined Sugar: Avoid foods with simple carbohydrates such as high fructose corn syrup, refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, MSG, artificial colours, trans fats, and high saturated fats.

Nutrition is increasingly proving to be the answer to many health problems, but it does not act alone. Last but not least, it is necessary to limit physical inactivity, follow strategies supporting quality sleep and daily intake of high-quality nutritional foods. In other words: diet, physical exercise, sleep and behavior change, the four pillars that form the basis of a healthy life.