Diet Do’s And Don’ts For Women Suffering From PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. It is estimated that 5-10% of women worldwide suffer from PCOS, making it one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in women.

While there are various symptoms associated with PCOS, the most common ones include irregular periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. These symptoms can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and emotional well-being.

One of the ways to manage PCOS is through dietary changes. A well-planned diet can help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PCOS and improve overall health. Here are some do’s and don’ts recommended by a PCOS doctor Dubai for women suffering from PCOS:

Diet do’s:

Focus on whole foods:

Embrace a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods. Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and nuts. Whole foods provide essential nutrients, fiber, and antioxidants that contribute to hormonal balance and overall well-being.

Opt for complex carbohydrates:

Choose complex carbohydrates over refined sugars and processed foods. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats release energy gradually, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels. This helps regulate insulin, a key consideration in PCOS management.

Include lean protein:

Incorporate lean protein sources such as poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes into your meals. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels, supports muscle health, and contributes to a feeling of fullness, aiding in weight management.

Prioritize healthy fats:

Include sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats provide essential fatty acids that support hormonal balance and help maintain overall health.

Regular, balanced meals:

Maintain a consistent eating schedule with balanced meals and snacks. Spreading meals throughout the day helps regulate blood sugar levels and supports energy balance. Avoid skipping meals to prevent disruptions in hormonal regulation.

Diet don’ts:

Refined sugars and processed carbohydrates:

Minimize or avoid foods high in refined sugars and processed carbohydrates. These can lead to rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, exacerbating insulin resistance, a common concern in PCOS.

Excessive caffeine and alcohol:

Limit caffeine intake and be mindful of alcohol consumption. Both caffeine and alcohol can affect hormonal balance and disrupt sleep patterns, which are crucial for overall health.

Saturated and trans fats:

Reduce the intake of saturated and trans fats found in fried foods, processed snacks, and certain cooking oils. High levels of these fats can contribute to inflammation and negatively impact metabolic health.

Dairy products with added hormones:

Choose hormone-free dairy products and be cautious of those with added hormones. Some dairy products may contain hormones that can potentially interfere with hormonal balance in individuals with PCOS.