PCOS - Lifestyle Changes That Can Help!

PCOS, also known as Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome, is a clinical condition in which women’s sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone are out of a proper balance. This leads to multiple growths of ovarian cysts (benign masses in the ovaries). PCOS causes problems with women’s menstrual cycle, pregnancy. It also causes cardiac problems and problems in appearance. Though the exact cause for developing PCOS is still unknown known, doctors say Genetics play an important role in it. Overproduction of the hormone androgen may be another factor behind developing PCOS.

Lifestyle changes are the keys to living a healthy life. This is a commonly known fact though we hardly tend to stick to it. In cases of PCOS, lifestyle modifications are of severe importance. A healthy lifestyle is considered as the main step in managing PCOS. In the case of PCOS patients, lifestyle modifications help in reducing insulin resistance, improving other hormonal problems, improving menstrual cycle, improving fertility and preventing further long-term complications.

Here are some tips to living a healthier life for PCOS patients, to get you started with!

Dietary Changes: Bringing about a change in your regular diet is very important if you are a PCOS patient. Low carbohydrate diets, specifically with complex carbohydrates, which are high in fibre are recommended for PCOS patients. High fibre carbohydrates include whole grain bread and cereals, whole wheat pasta, barley, brown rice, beans. Junk foods are to be avoided as much as possible. The intake of simple carbohydrates is to be limited and that of complex carbohydrates is to be done. The Carbohydrate and Glycemic Index (GI) in carbohydrates is important because carbohydrates with a low GI produce lower glucose levels and insulin levels after consumption, in comparison with carbohydrates with a high GI. Good food choices and a consistent eating pattern throughout the day will lead to a more even pattern of blood glucose levels.

Weight check: For PCOS patients keeping the weight under check is primarily important. Weight loss can reduce both insulin and androgen levels and may restore ovulation. No single specific dietary approach is best, but losing weight by cutting down on your daily calorie intake may help with polycystic ovary syndrome, especially if you're overweight or obese.

Physical activity: Regular exercise seems to be most effective in improving insulin resistance, which is of great significance in PCOS as this leads to many further complications. Regular physical activity helps to reduce androgen, improve insulin resistance. It also helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, induce ovulation, improve fertility, increase energy levels and improve self-esteem.

Thus, lifestyle modifications reduce complications related to PCOS to a great extent and help you in living a healthy, happy life.

In case you have a concern or query you can always consult an expert & get answers to your questions!