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Help with Polycystic Ovaries please......
Hi. I've been told from the doctor that I am suffering from Polycystic Ovaries (sorry about the spelling!) Has anyone got any suggestions on how to help this without going into hospital to have laser treatment? I have heard that a change in foods and some vitamins may help.
Our expert says...
Hi.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal imbalance, which, as you have heard, can be helped through diet. It is known that women with PCOS are more likely to have problems balancing blood sugar, which can lead to insulin-resistance. Insulin-resistance occurs when insulin levels are high, but the insulin cannot transport glucose into cells. Unfortunately, high insulin levels can lead to increased appetite, which can be a reason for weight gain that so commonly accompanies PCOS.
The good news, however, is that clinical studies have shown that as women with PCOS lose weight, hormone profiles start to return to normal and ovarian function improves. In one study, 82% of women showed an improvement in ovulation. Sometimes losing only a small amount of weight can significantly improve hormone levels.
So, my dietary recommendations to manage this condition, your weight and stabilise blood sugar levels are to follow a nutrient-dense diet based on low glycaemic (GI) index foods. These foods cause less disruption in blood sugar and insulin levels. Choosing low GI foods as part of a balanced healthy diet can increase fullness and satisfaction between meals, may help control appetite and are important in achieving sustainable weight loss. Low GI foods are oats, no-added sugar cereals, wholemeal bread, whole grain brown rice and whole wheat pasta and noodles. Cook potatoes in their skins and make sure you eat the skin to lower the GI and fill up with lots of veggies!
In terms of supplements, you may want to try a good quality vitamin and mineral supplement for a couple of months. Find one that contains B Vitamins, magnesium, zinc and chromium, as these are recommended for PCOS. Your local health food store or chemist should be able to advise you.
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