Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common health condition Nutri Dubai that affects women’s hormone levels, causing irregular periods or no menstruation at all. The body doesn’t go through regular ovulation due to an excessive production of the male hormone, testosterone, and a lack of the female hormone, oestrogen. Symptoms of PCOS may include acne, excessive hairiness, weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Women with PCOS may also develop a metabolic syndrome which increases the risk of heart diseases, diabetes, endometrial cancer and high blood pressure.
Studies have shown that a healthy diet help promote weight loss, lower blood glucose levels, controlled insulin for people with PCOS as they have insulin resistance, and can improve their blood pressure and cholesterol. These 6 tips can get you started:
1- Eat high-fiber food
Fiber can help you combat insulin resistance by slowing down the digestion and reducing the impact of sugar on the blood. High-fiber foods include vegetables, fruits, beans, lentils, almond, etc.
2- Eat lean proteins
Lean protein sources like tofu, chicken breast, and fish helps control appetite, reduce cravings, boost the metabolism and improve blood sugar levels as it’s digested slowly and it’s impact on blood sugar is relatively low.
3- Limit refined carbohydrates and sugars
Refined carbohydrates such as white bread, cereals, muffins, cookies, sugary desserts can cause inflammation and can aggravate insulin resistance. Sugar is also a carbohydrate and should be lessened. Try to decrease you sugar intake by drinking water instead of juices or soda, and fruit or dark chocolate instead of cake or cookies.
4- Lifestyle changes
Experts agree that moderate exercise like walking, jogging or swimming can increase your body’s sensitivity to insulin and help reduce insulin resistance, which will reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
5- Reducing stress
The symptoms associated with PCOS can cause stress. Try yoga or meditation, which can help calm the mind and let you connect with your body.
Finally, a woman with PCOS can reduce the symptoms and improve their quality of life by adopting a healthy lifestyle, becoming active, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Remember, it is always important to consult your doctor for additional treatment and advice.
Written by Mariam Fadlallah, Kcal Nutritionist
