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Approximately 20-25% of Middle Eastern women suffer from PCOS (Polycystic ovaries syndrome). Some studies claim that the numbers are higher as many women do not realize they have PCOS and might not seek treatment.
PCOS is a condition that impacts how a woman’s ovaries work, causes hormonal imbalances in the body, and leads to irregular periods. In some cases, women who suffer from PCOS do not regularly release eggs during their ovulation phase which leads to problems with fertility. Unfortunately, PCOS is a chronic disease that cannot be cured. However, lifestyle changes can help treat the symptoms and generate a more stable menstruation and ovulation cycle.
How does your diet affect PCOS?
Via: Clean eating kitchen – PCOS foods
Over 70% of women suffering from PCOS have insulin resistance. This means that insulin level in the blood increases due to the body’s inability to respond to insulin in a normal manner.
When insulin resistance is left uncontrolled, it not only leads to weight gain but can also lead to diabetes. In fact, research shows that an average of 50% of women with PCOS suffer from diabetes or become pre-diabetic before the age of 40. Managing insulin levels by following a healthy, nutritious diet can help reduce the symptoms of PCOS.
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with PCOS and don’t know where to start, the first thing you should do is adjust your diet and nutrition. Unfortunately, dairy, gluten, and sugars can help make PCOS symptoms more severe and should be avoided to stabilize the symptoms and improve one’s cycle.
Foods to avoid if you have PCOS
Via: All about wellness – PCOS
As mentioned above, a PCOS-friendly diet should not include or at least minimize gluten, dairy, and sugar to help ease PCOS symptoms.
- Simple carbohydrates such as mass-produced pastries and white bread.
- Fried foods such as fast food.
- Sugary beverages such as sodas and energy drinks.
- Processed meats such as hot dogs, sausages, and luncheon meats.
- Solid fats including margarine and lard.
- Excess red meat such as steaks, hamburgers, and pork.
- Dairies such as milk and cheese
- Soy products
Foods to eat if you have PCOS:
Via: The PCOS Bible – PCOS
- Low-glycemic index food such as vegetables and nuts.
- High fiber foods such as broccoli
- Fatty fish such as salmon and tuna
- Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
- Healthy fats such as avocados and coconuts
- Legumes such as lentils and dried beans
- Nuts in moderation
- Dark chocolate
Further reading:
- Medical Conditions that Impact Female Fertility: PCOS
- 6 Foods to Avoid During Breastfeeding
- 7 Signs of Infertility Women Should Not Ignore
Sources used in this article:
- Can my diet relieve symptoms of polycystic ovaries? – Healthline
- What to eat if you have PCOS – Medical News Today
- How diet affects PCOS- NAW care
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