The hormonal imbalances associated with polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS,
cause changes in metabolism and can put women with this disease at risk of
gaining weight and becoming obese. This condition also interferes with the
menstrual cycle and a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Some women experience
changes in appearance. If left untreated, it can cause diabetes, heart disease
and other serious problems. Adopting a
PCOS diet is important because weight gain may acne, menstrual
abnormalities and other symptoms.
Many diet plans are available to deal with the current problem of obesity in
the US. Women with this condition should make sure they follow a
PCOS diet plan, exercise
regularly and avoid smoking. Making healthy lifestyle choices will relieve
symptoms, promote weight loss and improve quality of life.
PCOS diet plan
How much
exercise should you do on a PCOS diet plan?
Exercise should consist of two weekly one-hour sessions of low impact
aerobics in a group setting as well as two weekly one-hour sessions of any type
of exercise. The disease does not inhibit exercise in any way. Women with
PCOS can exercise as much as women in the same weight range without the
disease. Aerobic capacity and muscle strength were comparable in both groups.
Because this condition is linked to insulin resistance, many people wonder
if a low carbohydrate diet for PCOS is wise. Due to weight gain, the body has
trouble using insulin, a hormone necessary for converting starches and sugars
into energy. This type of diet is not successful over the long-term for women
who want to lose weight. Consuming large amounts of saturated fats and protein
can be detrimental over time.
When choosing a
PCOS diet plan, patients should
remember that excess abdominal fat is dangerous because it can increase the
risk of developing heart disease and other health complications. Some
physicians may prescribe medication for their patients. Anti-androgen drugs and
birth control pills are approved for treating PCOS. Some of these medications
will promote weight loss.
Should a PCOS
diet plan include medication ?
When deciding on a
PCOS diet plan, you might
consider Rimonabant which is an obesity drug that is effective in promoting
weight loss. Women who discontinue use of this drug typically gain weight.
Taking metformin after stopping rimonabant is effective for maintaining a
healthy weight.
A PCOS diet plan might include Rosiglitazone and pioglitazone which are two
drugs that can aid in insulin use. Obese women who have PCOS can take Flutamide
for help with losing weight and balancing blood sugar levels. This drug is
sometimes taken with metformin, another drug that promotes efficient insulin
use and reduces the production of testosterone. Research suggests these drugs
promote weight loss in obese women suffering with PCOS.
What foods
should be eaten on the PCOS Diet.
PCOS diet plan patients should replace the traditional three large meals per
day with four to six smaller meals. This controls blood sugar. Physicians
recommend exercising a minimum of 30 minutes per day, several days per week.
They will work with patients to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Smokers should begin a program that can help them kick the habit.
PCOS diet recipes should be
high in calcium and iron. Alcohol consumption should be limited to a maximum of
one drink per day. Drinking too much alcohol can increase abdominal fat
accumulation, which increases the risk for type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
PCOS diet plan patients should consume a diet that is low in sugar and high
in fiber. Recipes should include large amounts of whole grains, vegetables and
fruits. Avoiding fatty and processed food will help regulate blood sugar
levels. If you need help planning meals, consult with a dietician or doctor and
follow the advice in a
PCOS diet book.
Paying attention to portion size and caloric intake will help you maintain a
healthy weight. Consuming healthy portions will prevent you from overeating. No
more than 30% of calories in food should come from fat content. Eating foods
low in fat will reduce the risk of heart problems and make it easier to manage
weight.
PCOS diet plan
Foods high in fat should be restricted to special occasions. Consuming lean
meat and other healthy foods will satisfy your hunger and help you avoid
unhealthy choices. Individuals should limit consumption of beverages and foods
containing high amounts of sugar that do not provide nutrition. Water is a
better choice than sodas and juice but avoid diet drinks containing high levels
of caffeine and sodium.
Women with PCOS who gain weight are at risk of developing high blood
pressure, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and Type 2 diabetes. Losing weight will
increase insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing various health
problems. Patients with PCOS have a higher risk of suffering from a heart
attack than healthy women in their age group.
The first step
before the starting a PCOS diet
The first step to losing weight is to consult with your physician and make
healthy lifestyle choices. During your visit, the doctor will check your
weight, body mass index and waist measurement. Body mass index, or BMI, is a
number that represent the ratio of height to weight. Losing just a few pounds
will help jumpstart the menstrual cycle and regulate hormone levels. Treatment
should begin with a healthy diet and regular exercise, especially if you want
to get pregnant.
The strong link between PCOS and diet does not completely explain the weight
difference seen in women who have PCOS compared to healthy women. Women with
PCOS tend to be overweight and this could be due to exercise level, dietary
intake and other lifestyle choices. Watching your weight will help you look and
feel better. Losing 10% of body weight will help regulate menstrual cycles and
decrease PCOS symptoms.
