Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS for short, is a medical condition that affects women of reproductive age. PCOS affects fertility, menstruation, the skin and the hair. Women with this condition have a high risk of developing diabetes, so they may be directed to follow a very specific diet to prevent it. Consuming certain foods and avoiding others may also help reduce symptoms associated with this condition. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for more information.
B-Vitamins
Hair, nails, skin, nerves and hormones all rely on B-complex vitamins for growth, development and maintenance. B-complex vitamins include vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, B-7, B-9 and B-12. Women who have dry skin or thinning hair may benefit from eating foods that contain these vitamins. Most fortified cereals contain a mixture of B vitamins, as well as brown rice, whole-wheat bread, fruit, green-leafy vegetables, liver and poultry.
Carbohydrates
Women with PCOS may develop type-2 diabetes or insulin resistance due to an irregularity in the hormone insulin. However, the risk for developing these conditions can be reduced through dietary modifications. One food group that there is some confusion over are carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the energy source for the body; and they can either be healthy or unhealthy. Healthy carbohydrates for women with PCOS include whole-grain, complex-carbohydrates such as bran, whole-wheat and brown rice; these promote a slower release of insulin. Simple carbohydrates, such as white flour, white rice or sugar, cause insulin levels to increase rapidly after consuming them, which can cause instability in blood sugar and increase weight gain.
Calcium Sources
Women of reproductive age should consume 3 cups of milk-based dairy products per day, to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis, which usually occurs around the time of menopause. Calcium is a mineral used to protect the bones and teeth. To get the best benefit from calcium, make healthy dairy food choices. Some dairy products contain large amounts of saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol. Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy foods that contain both calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D is needed to boost the uptake of calcium into the bloodstream.
Fiber-Rich Foods
Foods that are rich in dietary fiber hold many key health benefits. Women with PCOS often have problems with weight gain, which can further exaggerate many of the symptoms experienced with PCOS; in addition to increasing risk factors associated with it. However, Women's Health states that a 10 percent decrease in weight can regulate the menstrual cycle in women with this condition. Eating dietary food sources such as oats, whole-wheat or bran can help weight loss. Mayo Clinic explains that fiber-food sources make you feel fuller longer, which makes it less likely to overeat.
