Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal condition that affects women of childbearing age. This condition causes women to develop ovarian cysts, facial hair, androgenic alopecia, infertility and weight gain. Women with PCOS have a higher than normal level of insulin, which causes an increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. For this reason, women with this condition must make modifications to their diets and exercise regularly. Some women choose to follow a low-glycemic diet to decrease their symptoms, whereas others may opt for a vegetarian diet.
Define a Vegetarian Diet
Vegetarian is an umbrella term that encompasses four different forms of vegetarian diets: vegan, lacto vegetarian, lacto-ovo vegetarian and semi-vegetarian. Vegans, lacto vegetarians and lacto-ovo vegetarians all refrain from eating meat, poultry and fish; however, lacto vegetarians eat dairy products and lacto-ovo vegetarians eat dairy and eggs. Vegans do not eat any meat products or any foods that contain dairy, eggs, fish, poultry or meat, whereas semi-vegetarians eat chicken, fish, dairy products and eggs, but refrain from red-meat.
Benefits
According to the American Heart Association, most vegetarian diets are low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol, which according to some studies shows that vegetarians have a decreased instance of obesity, heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes mellitus and certain forms of cancer. A vegetarian diet can benefit women with PCOS by encouraging them to eat foods that are high in fiber. Eating foods that are high in fiber can help regulate blood sugar and also aid in weight loss. High fiber foods include legumes, fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Risks
The downside to a vegetarian diet is the amount of carbohydrate-rich meat substitutes that are available. Women with PCOS have to watch their consumption of refined carbohydrates such as sugar, white rice and white flour, since they spike insulin levels. In addition, the American Heart Association states that vegetarians are at an increased risk of developing iron-deficiency anemia from not eating meat. This does not apply to semi-vegetarians or lacto-ovo vegetarians, since egg yolks are considered to be one of the best sources for iron according to the American Heart Association. Also, some vegetarian food options are deep fried or covered in condiments, which may contain high levels of sodium, sugar and fat.
Additions
According to the Center for Young Women's Health, women with PCOS will benefit from making dietary modifications which cut out refined carbohydrates and include exercise at least 5 times a week at 60 minutes a session. Also avoid snack foods, soda and juices that contain large amounts of sugar.
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