Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is sometimes referred to as polycystic syndrome, can be affected by diet. Specific foods can trigger PCOS symptoms or increase the severity of existing symptoms. The diet for polycystic syndrome restricts the intake of caffeine and carbohydrates and follows the principles of a low-glycemic diet.
Restricting Caffeine
High levels of caffeine intake can disrupt the production of hormones and weaken the adrenal glands. According to the authors of The Ultimate PCOS Handbook, there is no need to completely eliminate caffeinated products from the diet. To reduce the symptoms of polycystic syndrome, people with the condition should limit their intake to three or fewer caffeinated drinks each day. There are also several easy ways to reduce caffeine intake without giving up favorite foods and beverages. Caffeine-free beverages can be purchased in place of caffeinated ones. Pouring coffee and tea into a small cup instead of a large one can reduce caffeine intake. Eating miniature pieces of chocolate allows people with PCOS to enjoy the rich flavor without getting the caffeine that's in a full-sized chocolate bar.
Low-Glycemic Diet Principles
Because polycystic syndrome affects the way the body uses insulin, a diet for polycystic syndrome needs to be based on the principles of a low-glycemic diet. The glycemic index ranks carbohydrates by the effect that they have on the body's blood sugar levels. Foods that have a low-glycemic index do not result in large spikes in blood sugar. Therefore, women with this condition should eat low-glycemic foods. Examples of low-glycemic foods include vegetables, whole-grain breads, fruits and brown rice. Foods that cause spikes in blood sugar should be avoided. They include baked goods, processed meats, packaged meals and soft drinks.
Carbohydrate Restriction
According to Dr. Water Futterweit from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, women with PCOS should get 50 percent of their calories from carbohydrates. Women who are obese should reduce that amount to 40 percent. Complex carbohydrates should be selected instead of simple sugars because PCOS can cause insulin resistance, making it more difficult for sugar to be carried out of the blood. Insulin resistance can lead to weight gain and increases the risk for developing heart disease. Examples of complex carbohydrates include brown rice, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals. Avoid cakes, cookies, pastries and sweets that contain high amounts of sugar and little to no nutritional value.
References
- A Patient's Guide to PCOS; Dr. Walter Futterweit; 2006
- The Ultimate PCOS Handbook; Colette Harris and Theresa Cheung; 2006
- University of Sydney: Glycemic Index
