PCOS Diet Advice

Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, is caused by an imbalance in male and female hormones in women. This condition causes symptoms such as infertility, obesity, hirsutism, acne and menstrual irregularities. Polycystic ovary syndrome causes women to have abnormal levels of insulin, which puts them at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A number of women with this condition take medications to balance insulin levels, encourage weight loss and restore menstrual regularity. However, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, making significant changes in the diet can help relieve some of these symptoms.

Carbohydrate and Insulin

Since women with polycystic ovary syndrome have increased levels of insulin, they are urged to reduce the amount of carbohydrates they consume. Some women choose to cut out carbohydrates completely, although the body requires carbohydrates for energy. Women with PCOS should decrease their intake of starchy carbohydrates such as white bread and potatoes and replace them with complex carbohydrates such as whole grains and brown rice. Complex carbohydrates do not cause the sharp rise that starchy carbohydrates do. Reducing the amount of starchy carbohydrates consumed will also help with weight maintenance.

Fat Intake

Women with PCOS often find it hard to lose weight and may be advised by their doctor to reduce their fat intake, among other dietary changes, to help. The U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends consuming no more than 30 percent of your total calories in fat, with a small percent of this fat being saturated fat. According to Mayo Clinic, women with PCOS are at an increased risk for developing high cholesterol. To encourage a healthy cholesterol level, avoid trans fat, foods that contain cholesterol and reduce saturated fats.

Exercise Importance

Exercise serves many benefits for women with polycystic ovary syndrome. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, regular exercise promotes a decrease in insulin levels and helps with weight loss. Since eating causes a rise in insulin levels, walking after eating a meal--especially a large one--can help decrease it. Exercising in the beginning may be hard for women who aren't used to working out, so starting off with small exercises such as walking is best.

Sugar and Snacks

Snack foods are usually high in fat, sugar and sodium, all of which may cause health issues in women with PCOS. Even choosing "low-fat" or "sugar-free" snack options can cause these problems due to hidden starches that increase insulin. Choose snack options that contain very little sugar, are low in sodium and contain nutrients such as fiber or whole grains.

Considerations

If you are making changes to your diet and you are still finding it difficult to lose weight, consult your physician; he may have to tailor a special diet for you. Since symptoms and complications of PCOS differ from woman to woman, your physician may tell you to completely avoid certain foods or to increase your intake of others.