PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a condition characterized by hormonal disruptions. The ovaries secrete a higher than normal amount of androgen hormones which cascade into issues surrounding consistent ovulation, abnormal hair growth, acne, weight gain, pain with cysts, skin tags, thinning hair, infertility, etc. Those with PCOS are also at a higher risk of insulin resistant, gestational diabetes, dyslipidemia, high blood pressure, disordered eating/eating disorders, sleep apnea, etc.
There are four PCOS ‘types’ recognized in practice:
Type A: high androgens, irregular periods, polycystic ovaries
Type B: high androgens, irregular periods, normal ovaries
Type C: High androgens, regular periods, polycystic ovaries
Type D: normal androgens, irregular periods, polycystic ovaries
Because of the wide array of varying symptoms along with cysts being ‘normal’ on the ovaries depending on cycle timing, PCOS can be difficult to diagnose. At current, it is thought that up to 15% of women of childbearing age are faced with the challenges of PCOS.
A 2021 meta analysis by Shang, et. Al. provides nutritional insight into PCOS and diet noting that nutritional interventions are a proven route of care for PCOS patients facing fertility challenges. There are also a number of research studies showing benefits of diet and lifestyle change in improving symptoms and preventing long term complications in anyone with PCOS.
Major nutrition interventions target insulin resistance, generalized inflammation, gut dysfunction and hormone imbalances through increasing fiber, focusing on lower glycemic index foods, including fish and berries in your diet, addressing foods that may be causing IBS (or IBS like) symptoms, and much more.
Working with a registered dietitian allows for guidance through these interventions that concentrates on each individual’s specific needs, maintaining balance in a diet, and working on food and body positivity.
Contact us today at (806)803-1558Â to learn more about how we can best serve you!
Nutrients. 2021 Jul; 13(7): 2452. Published online 2021 Jul 18. doi:Â 10.3390/nu13072452
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