Polycystic ovary syndrome, also called PCOS, Polycystic Ovary Disease, or PCOD, is a hormonal imbalance where the ovaries may contain immature follicles called cysts. Symptoms can include menstrual irregularities, male body hair patterns, infertility, acne and weight problems. Managing your weight may be challenging because of the side effects of the disease, but there are things you can do to help minimize weight gain and lose excess weight. Before starting any weight loss plan, talk with your doctor to make sure it is safe for you.
Step 1
Exercise regularly and get some sort of physical activity during your daily routine. Mayo Clinic explains that regular physical activity helps weight control if you have PCOS and also helps control blood sugar, which may be a struggle for some women with this condition. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get approximately 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, like brisk walking, as well as muscle-strengthening activities like weight training two or more days a week. Before starting an exercise routine, talk with your doctor about whether it is safe for you to do so.
Step 2
Eat a healthy diet. Choose foods higher in fiber, as this will not only help control your blood sugar, but will keep you full for a longer period of time as well. Fiber can help curb your hunger, helping you in your weight loss efforts and reducing the likelihood of overeating. Womenshealth.gov adds that limiting processed foods and foods with added sugar can help minimize weight gain.
Step 3
Take your medication as directed by your doctor. Some women with PCOS are prescribed Metformin, which is a diabetes drug that lowers production of testosterone and aids blood sugar control, but it can also decrease body mass, says Womenshealth.gov. Talk with your doctor about medications and how they may be able to help you control your weight with this condition.
Tips and Warnings
- Find a friend who will exercise with you, if you have trouble finding the motivation to exercise alone. Working out with a friend can make it seem less like work and more sociable. Keep healthy snacks on hand like trail mix with dried fruit and nuts, or air-popped popcorn, or fresh fruit like apples. These are all easy to throw in a plastic bag for on-the-go snacks that are diet friendly.
- Do not try and lose weight without first talking with your doctor about it. She may have some tips for you on safe ways to go about losing weight, or she may be able to recommend a nutritionist, gym or personal trainer who will be able to help you with your diet and fitness efforts.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Lifestyle and Home Remedies; Mayo Clinic Staff; December 2009
- Womenshealth.gov; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Frequently Asked Questions; March 2010
- Justeves.com: Polycystic Ovarian Disease
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; How Much Physical Activity Do Adults Need?; March 2011
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