Polycystic ovarian disease is also known as polycystic ovary syndrome. PCOD or PCOS is a condition in females which is caused by an imbalance of hormones. It is not known what causes this imbalance, though your genes may be involved. You can help control some of the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome by making changes to your diet.
Polycystic Ovarian Disease and Insulin
Polycystic ovarian disease is caused by abnormally high levels of hormones known as androgens that are hormones, such as testosterone, which are made by females in small quantities. Although researchers do not know what causes this androgen overproduction, the levels of another hormone, insulin, are thought to play a role. An excess of insulin can cause androgen levels to become high and many women with PCOD also have elevated levels of insulin in their blood.
Calorie Restriction
Between 50 and 60 percent of all women with polycystic ovarian syndrome are obese, ObGyn.net reports. If you are obese and have PCOS, losing some of your excess body weight can help return your hormone levels to normal. Reduce your caloric intake along with getting more physical activity, and this will result in you burning more calories than you consume each day. Consuming more fruits, vegetables and lean sources of protein can help you cut calories and lose weight.
Carbohydrates
Another important part of a diet for PCOD is consuming carbohydrates only in moderation. Carbohydrates are broken down by the digestive tract to form glucose, which stimulates an increase in insulin levels. You can help control your insulin levels by limiting carbohydrates so they only provide about 50 percent of your calories each day. In addition, eating whole grains, fruits and other sources of complex carbohydrates can also lower your insulin levels, the National Hormone Foundation notes.
Benefits
Losing weight and eating carbohydrates in the right proportions will help balance your hormone levels. This can help if your menstrual cycle is irregular and may increase your fertility. It will also reduce the abnormal hair growth on your face, chest, stomach, toes and other parts of your body, known as hirsutism. A proper diet will also alleviate the acne, dandruff and oily skin which typically accompanies polycystic ovarian disease.
