PCOS is the abbreviated form of polycystic ovary syndrome, which occurs due to hormonal imbalances and causes issues with metabolism. According to a study of the US Department of Health & Human Services, around 10% of females of child bearing age have this reproductive health issue.
It can lead a female to have chronic health problems like diabetes, depression, an increased risk of endometrial cancer, and cardiovascular problems. As per a few studies published in the National Library of Medicine, diet can help a female reduce PCOS impact.
How diet affects PCOS
Primary ways that diet affects PCOS are insulin resistance & production and weight management. Insulin has a crucial role in PCOS. And so, a PCOS treatment diet can help patients to manage insulin levels. A study of the US Department of Health and Human Services, more than 50% of females with PCOS have prediabetes or diabetes before the age of 40. Diabetes has a direct link with the production of insulin in the body.
What foods to eat to manage PCOS
According to a study published on Ingenta, whatever females eat have a noticeable impact on PCOS. Till now, there is no standard diet for managing PCOS. However, most reproductive health experts agree that consuming certain foods is beneficial in managing PCOS symptoms. As per their advice, you should have three diets to lower the impacts of PCOS:
- GI diet or a low glycemic index diet - It includes legumes, seeds, whole grains, fruits, low-carbohydrate foods, and starchy vegetables.
- An anti-inflammatory diet - An anti-inflammatory diet includes fatty fish, berries, extra virgin oil, and leafy greens to lower inflammation impacts.
- The DASH diet - Health experts advise a DASH (dietary approaches to stop hypertension) diet to lower impact or risk of heart problems. It may slo facilitate people to manage their PCOS. Such a diet includes vegetables, fish, whole grains, poultry, and low-fat dairy products like milk. As per a 2015 study, following a DASH diet for eight weeks helps obese females lower belly fat and insulin resistance.
In brief, a PCOS treatment diet should include the following foods or food items:
- Fibre rich foods
- Fatty fish like sardines, salmon, mackerel, and tuna
- Green and leafy vegetables such as spinach, and kale
- Dark fruits like red grapes, blackberries, blueberries, and cherries
- Cauliflower and broccoli
- Natural and unprocessed foods
- Beans, lentils, and other legumes
- Coconuts, avocados, and olive oil
- Dark chocolates
- Spices such as cinnamon and turmeric
What foods to avoid during PCOS treatment
Apart from focusing on the inclusion of certain foods in your PCOS treatment diet, you should have a sound idea about what foods you should avoid if you are going through PCOS treatment. Here are some foods to avoid for your PCOS management:
- Refined carbohydrates like white bread
- Fried foods
- Sugary beverages like energy drinks and sodas
- Solid fats
- Excess red meat like pork and hamburgers
- Processed meats like luncheon and sausages
At Mannat Fertility Clinic, our doctors help you treat all issues that prevent you from becoming a mother or father of a child. With our treatment and your support, the journey to parenthood will be easier for you.
