FAQs about Diet and Weight Loss related to PCOS

PCOS is a condition caused mainly by hormonal imbalance in women.  There are many causes for PCOS. This imbalance is caused due to an increased production of Testosterone – a male hormone- in the woman’s body. Earliest indication of PCOS is irregular menstrual cycles. Here is some information on PCOS and its relation with diabetes and weight issues.

Why is it difficult to lose weight with PCOS?

Women with PCOS gain weight very easily due to an increase in insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone which converts fats into energy for body functioning.With insulin sensitivity fats and sugars from the food consumed turns into fat and are stored mainly in the abdomen. Also, fat accumulation is stimulated by higher levels of male hormone Testosterone, a small quantity of which is produced in women. More than half of the women suffering from PCOS are overweight. When you have PCOS, you’re actually on fat storage mode which makes it quite difficult to lose weight. Risks of other issues like diabetes can also commence.

Is Keto diet good for weight loss for women suffering from PCOS?

Keto diet is a low-carb low fat diet which restricts consumption of foods that cause insulin resistance and facilitates weight loss. So it is certainly helpful for women with PCOS. In fact, for women with low resistance to insulin and tendency towards obesity, keto diet really works well to help you succeed to trigger off the weight loss plan and reduce the risk of diabetes.

What diet is best for someone with PCOS?

A balanced and healthy diet is good for everyone, especially for women with PCOS issues.

A PCOS reducing diet will help in maintaining good health and reducing other risks like diabetes, obesity etc. Diet should include items like raw and unprocessed foods, high-fibre fatty fish including salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel, kale, spinach and other dark leafy green vegetables.  Also, fruits such as red grapes, blueberries, blackberries, citrus fruits, papaya and dried beans, lentils, and foods containing healthy fats such as olive oil, broccoli and cauliflower. Consult your nearest nutritionist at Apollo Sugar for more details on nutrition and diet.

Can PCOS be cured by losing weight?

PCOS is a condition which can be treated with medication, diet and exercise to maintain a normal life. Losing weight does not cure PCOS but it is a vital step towards achieving it.  Actually, it may be possible that weight loss can restore normal functioning of the ovary.This, in turn, can lead to improvements in PCOS symptoms such as excessive hair growth on the face and body, acne or hair loss.

How to lose weight with PCOS?

Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) face more difficulties in losing weight. However, with expert advice from a dietician and a bit discipline in lifestyle can really achieve good results. Consuming a nutrient-rich diet, cutting down completely on high calorie or junk-food will help in achieving the target weight loss.Along with exercise you can successfully lose weight with PCOS. Ensure that there is no stress to the self while on a diet and exercise regimen.

Does polycystic ovary syndrome make you fat?

PCOS makes it more difficult for your body to use the insulin hormone, which normally helps to convert sugars and starches from food into energy. This disorder, called insulin resistance, can trigger the build-up of unprocessed sugar in your bloodstream causing weight gain. High levels of insulin lead to the higher production of male hormone known as androgens which in turn can result in weight gain and the occurrence of diabetes.

Can we drink milk in PCOS?

Milk and dairy products are better avoided by women suffering from PCOS. Women with PCOS have a natural tendency to develop insulin resistance. Intake of milk or dairy products can lead to higher levels of insulin. It is recommended to avoid milk for a woman with PCOS.

Which fruits are good for PCOS?

Research has shown that women with PCOS suffer from low-grade inflammation. High-grade inflammations can increase insulin sensitivity, which leads to worsening of PCOS symptoms. To combat that, anti-oxidant fruits like strawberries, blueberries and raspberries work best. All fruits with the anti-oxidant properties are best in case of PCOS.

Is Egg good for PCOS?

Eggs not only taste good but also have high nutritional value. The egg white is high in protein while the yolk contains omega 3 fatty acids, iron, folate, thiamine and other essential vitamins. Eggs are high in protein and can probably help improve PCOS symptoms.

Is coffee bad for PCOS?

Yes, definitely. There are many reasons why coffee is inadvisable for a woman with PCOS. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, colas and other drinks. Caffiene is a stimulant which boosts the stress hormones which in turn raise insulin levels. Becoming habituated to high coffee consumption reduces the resistance to insulin, making it harder to control blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels lead to obesity. Effectively coffee is avoidable and not recommended for those with PCOS.

 

The above suggestions can really help with weight loss in cases of PCOS. For more information on PCOS and weight visit the nearest Apollo Sugar Clinic.