Polycystic ovary syndrome, known as PCOS, is the No. 1 one cause of infertility among women trying to conceive, according to registered dietitian Martha McKittrick, but symptoms may be helped with changes to the diet. Indications of PCOS typically begin at the onset of menstruation, but some women will remain undiagnosed until their 20s. High carbohydrate foods result in a spike in blood sugar, causing the body to secrete higher levels of insulin, which can lead to weight gain, obesity and cystic changes within the ovaries.
Identification
PCOS occurs in women due to a hormonal imbalance. The ovaries produce excess male hormones, resulting in hair loss, obesity, acne, facial hair and infertility. Not every woman will develop all of these symptoms, however. The University of Chicago Medical Center states that women often have polycystic ovaries with PCOS, although cystic changes are not involved in every case, despite the name of the disorder.
Insulin Resistance
Many women with PCOS have developed a condition called insulin resistance, which causes difficulty with the body's cells receiving glucose for energy. Insulin is secreted by the pancreas to regulate blood sugar levels, but with insulin resistance, the pancreas must secrete more insulin to get glucose into the cells of the body. Eating carbohydrates in moderation and spacing portions throughout the day can reduce fluctuations in blood sugar.
Nutrients
Follow a diet that supplies necessary amounts of nutrients and vitamins to maintain health. Low-fat dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese contain calcium, which protects against bone loss. Continue drinking plenty of fluids without caffeine, such as water and decaffeinated diet soda or tea to prevent dehydration. Many women feel increased energy by taking a multivitamin daily. For women trying to conceive, folic acid is important as part of a multivitamin to prevent birth defects.
Selections
Other foods to eat on a diet for PCOS include a mix of carbohydrates, protein and fats. Choose carbohydrates that contain fiber and less sugar, which can provide energy while maintaining an adequate insulin level. Select foods such as fresh fruit, including apples, bananas, peaches or pears; whole grain breads and pastas; and high-fiber cereals. Healthy protein sources include fish, nuts and seeds, and poultry, such as chicken.
Avoid
Avoid foods that contain high amounts of sugar, such as sweetened juices, canned fruit packed in heavy syrup, soda, cookies, sugared cereals, cakes and pies. Vegetables such as potatoes, peas and corn contain high levels of starch and should also be avoided. Refrain from eating foods that contain refined grains, such as white breads, bagels and white rice, as these can rapidly increase the need for insulin.
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