Polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), also known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affects many young women in their teens and sometimes women who are going through perimenopause. There is no cure for PCOD, but eating a balanced diet of the right foods can help control some of the symptoms of PCOD. Sometimes PCOD is a temporary condition. Eating a healthy diet of proteins, carbohydrates and fats can help regulate insulin levels, which is one of the major problems associated with PCOD.
Definition of PCOD
PCOD is a hormonal imbalance which starts in puberty for a young woman, or later in life as she transitions to post-menopause. Some of the common causes of PCOD include that the pancreas may produce too much insulin or the ovaries produce too much testosterone. Side effects of PCOD include acne, irregular periods, weight fluctuations and excessive body and facial hair growth.
Carbohydrates
Controlling carbohydrate intake is an important part of the PCOD diet; carbohydrates are converted by the body into sugar which, in turn, stimulates the production of insulin. Women with PCOD should choose carbohydrates which break down slowly in the digestive tract in order to prevent a sudden 'sugar rush.' Examples of slow releasing carbohydrates for a PCOD diet include fruit, whole wheat bread and pasta, vegetables and brown rice.
Fats
Fats are also an important part of the PCOD diet, as they also break down slowly in the digestive tract and regulate blood sugar levels; however, it is important to choose the 'right' type of fat which means choosing unsaturated (polyunsaturated) fats, the healthiest of the three fat food groups. Examples of unsaturated fats for a PCOD diet include canola oil, olive oil, butter and margarine.
Protein
Protein foods help the body to burn fat, build and repair bones, cells, muscles, hormones, nails and hair, and help to prevent infection. Therefore, including a balanced level of protein in a PCOD diet will help to maintain a healthy hormonal balance. Examples of protein foods to include in a PCOD diet include fish, eggs, chicken, lean meat, yogurt and cheese; in addition, proteins can be found in soy foods, nuts and seeds.
Fiber
Fiber contributes towards maintaining a healthy endocrine system, including insulin production in the pancreas; foods which contain fiber do not cause blood sugar levels in the body to rise too sharply. Fiber can be found in many vegetables and in many foods which also contain carbohydrates, such as some cereals and energy bars.
Balanced Diet
Women who suffer from PCOD and maintain a balanced diet of carbohydrates, healthy fats, protein and fiber can help control some of the symptoms and side effects of PCOD. By understanding how diet affects the body, women with PCOD can help regulate hormonal and insulin imbalances in the body through natural methods.
