Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition that arises from a imbalance in the female hormones. This condition causes women to have irregular menstrual cycles, infertility and increased insulin levels. Although polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, has no cure, the symptoms can be treated with medications or changes in diet. Since women with this condition also have an increased chance of developing high cholesterol and type 2 diabetes, eating healthy can prevent these medical conditions and help to decrease body weight.
High Fiber Foods
Foods that contain high fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains or whole wheat have several medical benefits. MayoClinic states that a diet high in fiber helps to regulate the digestive system, helps with weight loss, regulates blood sugar levels and balances blood cholesterol levels. Eating these foods can help prevent the complications that come from having PCOS. Women under the age of 50 are recommended to have at least 25 g of fiber per day.
Calcium Rich Dairy
Women need to consume calcium daily in order to promote good tooth and bone health. The problem with many dairy products is that they contain high levels of fat. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome should avoid full fat dairy products and opt instead for low-fat or fat-free options. In addition to getting calcium from dairy products, you can get a significant amount of calcium from broccoli and enriched cereal.
Decrease Starch
A lot of women who have polycystic ovary syndrome are told to avoid carbohydrates to keep insulin levels down. However, it is not advisable to avoid all carbohydrates, since carbohydrates are needed to fuel the body. It is best to avoid eating starchy carbohydrates and eat complex carbohydrates instead. Starchy carbohydrates such as white rice, potatoes and white bread cause insulin in the blood to rise rapidly after eating. However, complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, whole wheat and brown rice contain heart healthy fiber and causes a slower rise in insulin than starchy, or refined, carbs.
Cut the Fat
Cut out foods that are high in fat such as chips, cakes or pie. Foods like these contain saturated fats, trans fat and in some cases, cholesterol, which can contribute to increases in low-density lipoprotein -- bad cholesterol -- and decrease high-lipoprotein -- good cholesterol. Instead of eating potato chips, which contain salt, refined carbs and saturated fat, you can substitute chips that contain no salt and that contain unsaturated fats.
Considerations
Check with your physician to see if you need extra vitamins, minerals or any medications to prevent or treat symptoms in addition to making changes to the diet. Exercise regularly, even if it is just walking 30 minutes day. According to MayoClinic, exercising regularly can help lower your blood sugar levels.
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