Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS for short, is a disorder that affects teens and women of childbearing age. The Center for Young Women's Health reports that one out of every ten women suffers from PCOS. The foods you eat play an important part in your overall health, and adding certain foods to your diet may help you combat the symptoms and side effects that accompany PCOS.
Symptoms and Causes of PCOS
PCOS is caused by a hormonal imbalance in your body that affects your reproductive system, as well as other systems that regulate and monitor hormones and hormone secretion. When you develop PCOS, you may experience a range of uncomfortable and potentially health-damaging symptoms. Irregular menstrual periods, which are one of the most common symptoms, may be characterized by heavy periods, absent periods or periods that are too frequent. You may also grow excess hair on your face and body, develop acne, gain weight, or develop dark patches of skin on the back of your neck. PCOS can lead to infertility and difficulty getting pregnant if left untreated.
Foods with Protein
While you do not need to follow a high-protein diet with PCOS, you should include plenty of protein in your diet. When you develop PCOS, your body has a more difficult time maintaining proper insulin levels, which can lead to weight gain. The Center for Young Women's Health, based at the Children's Hospital in Boston, notes that eating protein foods with healthy fats can help you keep your insulin levels low. Eat 1 tbsp. of peanut butter on a slice of bread or on celery sticks. Hummus spread on a whole wheat bagel is another healthy protein option. Additional healthy protein foods to include in your PCOS diet include beans, yogurt, eggs, lean meat, fish, nuts and nut butters.
Foods with Carbohydrates
If you have PCOS, it is important to monitor your intake of carbohydrates and choose the healthiest carbohydrate foods. Carbohydrate foods with fiber are among your healthiest choices because they help you maintain low insulin levels. Sugary carbohydrates and refined grains, such as candy, soda and white bread, on the other hand, can cause your insulin levels to go up. Include healthy carbohydrates like whole wheat bread, brown rice, high-fiber cereal, fruits, vegetables and hummus in your diet to help you combat PCOS.
Foods with Healthy Fat
Your PCOS diet should include some healthy fats because they work with the protein you consume to slow the absorption of carbohydrates, which will help keep your insulin level low. Avoid foods with saturated and trans fats, such as cookies, cake, fried foods and fast food, because they are unhealthy. Opt for healthy unsaturated fats from foods like avocados, olive oil, nuts, seeds, fish, hummus and nut butters.
Member Comments