Polycystic ovary synDrome
Polycystic ovary synDrome
/ poly·cys·tic o·var·i·an syn·drome /
noun: an endocrine disorder that impacts metabolic, reproductive, and psychological health. It is characterized by insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and often obesity. Management of PCOS frequently involves dietary interventions due to the strong relationship between diet, gut microbiota, and the symptoms and outcomes of PCOS. Tailored nutritional advice is essential for enhancing fertility and overall health.
Low-Carbohydrate and Low-Glycemic Index Diets:
Research supports diets low in carbohydrates and the glycemic index for improving insulin sensitivity and reproductive outcomes in PCOS. The goal isn’t to alter macronutrient ratios instead these diets lower glycemic load to improve insulin resistance and hormonal balance. Recommended foods include whole grains, leafy greens, and legumes, as they help manage glucose release and prevent insulin spikes.
Low-carbohydrate diets can optimize reproductive outcomes for people with PCOS. It is important to note that the duration of dietary treatment correlates positively with the extent of symptom improvement, therefore, dietary modifications should be sustained.
Calorie Consciousness:
Caloric intake moderation is critical for managing weight and hormone imbalances in PCOS. Distributing calories evenly throughout the day can help stabilize metabolism and reduce hormone fluctuations. Reducing total caloric intake has been linked to significant improvements in hyperandrogenism, which involves elevated levels of hormones such as testosterone. This approach not only aids in regulating metabolic functions but also enhances hormonal equilibrium.
*If unsure where to begin, the Mediterranean diet is a good place. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, low-sugar fruits, and non-starchy vegetables. It also avoids pro-inflammatory foods and focuses on adopting a balanced diet with regular meal timing to manage insulin levels and reduce PCOS symptoms. Hydration and low-sugar drinks also contributes to symptom management.
Key Nutrients and Their Impact
Key Nutrients and Their Impact
Diet should be well balanced, rich in whole foods, and low in processed items. Inositol, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium are key nutrients identified for their beneficial effects on insulin regulation, inflammation reduction, and menstrual regularity.
Inositol:
A pseudo-vitamin that is needed for insulin signal transduction, which improves the way the body uses insulin. Inositol has been shown to enhance ovulatory function and reduce androgen levels in people with PCOS.
The recommended daily intake is 2,000-4,000 mg.
Foods High In Inositol:
Serving Size:
Mg Per Serving
~355
Cantaloupe and melons
1 cup
~307
Citrus Fruit (oranges, grapefruit)
1 medium orange
~140
Whole grains (brown rice, oats)
1 cup cooked
Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, peanuts, flaxseeds)
~73
1 ounce (~23 almonds)
~300
Beans, lentils, chickpeas
1 cup cooked
~450
Bran (rice bran, wheat bran)
1 ounce
~200
Cabbage
1 cup shredded
~165
Tomatoes
1 medium tomato
~100
Bananas
1 medium banana
~99
Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale)
1 cup raw
Serving size data is sourced from USDA FoodData Central
Omega-3 Fatty Acids:
These fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and improve cell membrane fluidity, thus enhancing insulin sensitivity and potentially reducing testosterone levels, aiding in symptom management of hirsutism and acne.
The recommended daily intake is 1,000-3,000 mg.
Foods High In Omega-3s:
Serving Size:
mg Per Serving
~2,350
Flaxseeds*
1 tbsp
~5,060
Chia Seeds
1 oz (about 2 tbsp)
~2,570
Walnuts
1 oz (about 14 halves)
Salmon (wild)*
~1,500
3 oz (cooked)
~2,000
Mackerel*
3 oz (cooked)
~1,300
Sardines (canned in water)*
3 oz
~3,000
Hemp Seeds
3 tbsp
~600
Algal Oil
1 tsp
~950
Anchovies*
1 oz
~340
Eggs (Omega-3 enriched)
1 large
*See below for Author’s note on safe and nutritious choices concerning the consumption of these products.
Serving size data is sourced from USDA FoodData Central
Vitamin D:
Essential for glucose metabolism and ovarian function, vitamin D deficiency is linked with metabolic imbalances in PCOS. While it predominantly comes from the sun, it can be found in smaller amounts through diet to support insulin secretion and menstrual cycle regulation.
The recommended daily intake is 1,000-4,000 IU.
Foods High In Vitamin D:
Serving Size:
IU Per Serving
~42
Liver (beef)
1 tbsp
~41
Egg Yolks
1 large
~400
Mushrooms (UV-exposed)
1 cup (sliced)
Salmon (wild)*
~570
3 oz (cooked)
~360
Mackerel*
3 oz (cooked)
~250
Sardines (canned in water)*
3 oz
~154
Tuna (canned in water)*
3 oz
~450
Cod Liver Oil
1 tsp
~130
Fortified Foods (like milk or orange juice)
1 cup
*See below for Author’s note on safe and nutritious choices concerning the consumption of these products.
Serving size data is sourced from USDA FoodData Central
Magnesium:
This mineral aids insulin metabolism and hormonal regulation, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, crucial for alleviating PCOS symptoms.
The recommended daily intake is 200-400 mg.
Foods High In Magnseium:
Serving Size:
Mg Per Serving
~168
Pumpkin Seeds
1 oz
~157
Spinach
1 cup cooked
~150
Swiss Chard
1 cup cooked
Dark Chocolate (70-85% cocoa)
~64
1 oz
~120
Black Beans
1 cup cooked
~118
Quinoa
1 cup cooked
~80
Almonds
1 oz (~23 almonds)
~74
Cashews
1 oz (~18 nuts)
~58
Avocados
1 medium avocado
~68
Figs
1 cup dried fruit
Serving size data is sourced from USDA FoodData Central
Zinc:
This mineral affects insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and hormone regulation, including testosterone. It also helps lower insulin levels, reduce androgens (like testosterone), and decrease inflammation and lipid profiles like triglycerides and cholesterol.
The recommended daily intake is 30 mg.
Foods High In Zinc
Serving Size:
Mg Per Serving
Oysters
3 oz cooked
~74
~7
Beef
3 oz cooked
~2.2
Pumpkin Seeds
1 oz
Lamb
~6.7
3 oz cooked
~1.6
Cashews
1 oz (~18 nuts)
~2.5
Chickpeas
1 cup cooked
Quinoa
1 cup cooked
~2
~3.1
Turkey
3 oz cooked
Lentils
1 cup cooked
~2.5
~1
1 oz
Dark Chocolate (70-85% cocoa)
Serving size data is sourced from USDA FoodData Central
Author’s Note:
Ensure Canned Foods are BPA-Free: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical traditionally used in the manufacturing of certain plastics and resins, including some used in food and drink packaging such as water bottles and canned foods. It's important to choose canned foods labeled as BPA-free to avoid exposure to this chemical, which has been linked to potential health effects on the brain, behavior, and prostate gland in fetuses, infants, and children. The FDA has stated that BPA is safe at the very low levels that occur in some foods, but many consumers prefer to err on the side of caution.
Flaxseeds Should Be Ground Fresh: Flaxseeds are best purchased whole and ground fresh before consumption. This is because whole flaxseeds can pass through the intestinal tract undigested, which means your body doesn’t get all the beneficial nutrients. Grinding flaxseeds breaks down their hard outer shell, making the omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber they contain available for the body to use. Store whole flaxseeds in a cool, dark place, and grind them as needed to maintain their nutrient potency.
Check Your Fish Sourcing: It is crucial to be aware of where your fish comes from due to the risk of heavy metal contamination, notably mercury. Fish such as shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish are known to have higher levels of mercury, which can be harmful, especially to pregnant people and young children. Opt for fish known to have lower mercury levels, such as salmon, anchovies, herring, and sardines, and consider consulting a reputable source or certification for safe sourcing.
Buying produce: Whenever possible, buy seasonal and local produce. It’s fresher, often cheaper, and has a lower environmental impact. Regardless of buying organic or conventional, always wash your produce thoroughly under running water to remove dirt, bacteria, and pesticide residues. If budget constraints are a concern, prioritize buying organic for the Dirty Dozen and opt for conventional for the Clean 15. This strategy helps reduce pesticide exposure while managing costs.
Herbal Interventions:
Herbal Interventions:
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra):
Known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-androgenic properties, making it effective in reducing testosterone levels and improving ovulatory function. These effects can help improve PCOS symptoms like hirsutism, (excessive hair growth) and acne.
Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens):
Commonly used to manage symptoms associated with elevated androgen levels such as hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne, making it a valuable option for PCOS management.
Spearmint (Mentha spicata):
Research shows that spearmint may reduce androgen levels in people with PCOS. High androgen levels are common in PCOS and can contribute to symptoms like hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and acne.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum):
Commonly used to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce insulin resistance, which is a common issue in PCOS. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, potentially reducing the effects of PCOS on the menstrual cycle and fertility.
Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale):
Known for its diuretic properties and its role in supporting liver detoxification, which can help manage hormone levels in PCOS.
Chasteberry or Chaste Tree (Vitex agnus-castus):
Often used to regulate menstrual cycles and improve fertility by influencing hormonal balance, particularly increasing progesterone levels. This can be beneficial in PCOS where hormonal imbalance is a major issue.
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera):
An adaptogen that helps manage stress and cortisol levels, which are important for overall hormonal balance and can indirectly influence PCOS symptoms.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis):
Rich in antioxidants, it supports weight management and enhances insulin sensitivity. Shown to balance hormones by increasing sex-hormone-binding-globulin, which binds to excess androgens.
Berberine:
Found in several plants, berberine is known for its effectiveness in improving insulin resistance and supporting weight loss, both of which are beneficial in managing PCOS.
Recipes:
Recipes:
These recipes focus on incorporating ingredients that naturally combat insulin resistance. They are fiber-rich to improve satiety and support, healthy digestive system, which is necessary for optimal hormone regulation. I’ve added herbs and spices known for their anti-inflammatory properties to help manage systemic inflammation often seen in PCOS. Adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids are present to reduce inflammation and support hormonal balance. Lastly, glycemic impact of each ingredient was taken into consideration to prevent blood sugar spikes.
01.
Spearmint and Green Tea Smoothie
1 servings
5 minutes
ingredients
directions
Notes:
Overall this is an anti-inflammatory smoothie that helps hormone balance and reduce androgen levels which is beneficial for sxs like hirsutism and acne. It can enhance insulin sensitivity and support metabolic health due to its high antioxident content. Additionally, the potassium and fiber help regulate blood sugar levels.
02.
1 servings
15 minutes
Breakfast Burrito
Notes
• High in Protein and Fiber: Helps in managing blood sugar levels, hormonal balance, and keeps you full longer.
• Low Glycemic Index Ingredients: Aids in preventing insulin spikes.
• Rich in Healthy Fats: Contribute to improved insulin sensitivity and enhances satiety.
• Anti-inflammatory Spices: Turmeric and cumin can help reduce inflammation associated with PCOS.
ingredients
directions
03.
Salmon Hash
2 servings
60 minutes
ingredients
Directions
notes:
04.
Spiced Overnight Oats
2 servings
5 minutes
Ingredients
directions
notes:
If you prefer it to be a little sweeter, add 1 tsp of honey. Also, any fruit can be added or substituted based on your preference
This recipe is low glycemic index and rich in fiber, helping to maintain steady blood sugar levels. It has antiinflammatory ingredients to help reduce androgen levels. Additionally, is added to improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
05.
Chicken Bowl
With Chili and Lime
4 servings
60 minutes
ingredients
Directions
notes:
This meal is an excellent source of protein, essential for muscle maintenance and metabolic health. The complete protein and fiber help stabilize blood sugar and support digestion. The health fats can improve insulin sensitivity and the antioxidants help fight oxidative stress linked with PCOS. Vitamin C improves nutrient absorption and provides anti-inflammatory benefits.
06.
Chili Lime Chick Bowl
4 servings
60 minutes
ingredients
directions
For the Chicken:
For the Bowls:
For the Chili Lime Dressing:
notes
07.
Salmon with Quinoa
And Spinach Salad
4 servings
60 minutes
ingredients
directions
notes
This meal has healthy fats, beneficial for hormonal balance, inflammation control, and insulin sensitivity. The complete protein source is high in fiber and supports glycemic control and digestive health. The added vegetables provide hydration and antioxidants, which are essential for reducing oxidative stress. Minerals from the spinach provide energy and insulin management. Vitamin C from the lemon aids in absorption of nutrients.
08.
4 servings
45 minutes
directions
Herbed Chicken Soup
ingredients
notes:
09.
PCOS Tea
1 servings
5 minutes
ingredients
directions
notes:
Tea is anti-inflammatory and helps reduce androgen levels, improve insulin sensitivity, control blood sugar, and support reproductive health. Optional Enhancements: If desired, you can sweeten the tea with a small amount of honey or stevia. A slice of lemon can also be added for extra flavor and vitamin C.
Usage Guidelines:
References:
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