Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form in or on your ovaries -- paired organs that play an important role in female reproductive health. While many ovarian cysts cause no notable symptoms, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, they can trigger abdominal pain and pressure, weight gain, breast tenderness and nausea. A nutritious diet, limited in certain foods, may help manage your symptoms and prevent cysts from turning into cancer, which occurs in a small minority of cases.
Red Meat
Red meat is a common source of unhealthy saturated fat -- a fat-form that can increase inflammatory responses, such as pain and swelling, in your body. Replacing red meat in your diet with fish and soy, on the other hand, may help keep ovarian cysts from becoming cancerous, according to the National Ovarian Cancer Network. Particularly fatty meats include organ meats, tenderloin and porterhouse steaks, pork ribs, brisket and bacon.
Refined Grains
Refined grains result from a process that strips whole grains of vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber. As low-glycemic foods, refined grains have a significant impact on your blood sugar and provide less satiation between meals compared to whole grains. Many women with polycystic ovary syndrome -- a condition characterized by hormonal imbalances and ovarian cysts -- experience daily food cravings, particularly for carbohydrate-rich foods, according to Martha McKittrick, a registered dietitian affiliated with the Fertility Center of Las Vegas. Choosing whole grains instead of refined grain products, such as white bread, instant rice and pretzels, may enhance appetite control, guarding against weight gain associated with ovarian cysts.
Added Sugars
Added sugars, such as cane sugar, brown sugar and high fructose corn syrup, add sweetness and calories, but few nutrients, to food. Similar to refined grains, added sugars are high-glycemic and may offset your blood sugar and contribute to weight gain. High-glycemic foods may also increase inflammation, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. Cutting back on sugary foods and beverages, such as frozen yogurt, regular soft drinks, milk chocolate and pancake syrup, and eating more fruits and vegetables, may enhance weight management and lower your risk for ovarian cancer.
Hydrogenated Vegetable Oil
Hydrogenated vegetable oil is a rich source of trans-fats -- unhealthy fats that can increase your LDL, or "bad," cholesterol, and lower your HDL, or "good," cholesterol, according to MayoClinic.com. Women with PCOS, regardless of their body weight, hold higher risks for cholesterol problems and heart disease. Trans-fats also increase inflammatory responses in your body. To guard against these risks, consume moderate amounts of healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds and avocados, and avoid commercially-prepared foods, such as frosting, crackers, cookies and pastries, containing hydrogenated vegetable oil.
References
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Ovarian Cysts Fact Sheet
- National Ovarian Cancer Network: Treatment & Diagnosis Strategies For Ovarian Cancer
- Linus Pauling Institute: Two Faces of Inflammation
- Fertility Center of Las Vegas: PCOS Nutrition Corner
- MayoClinic.com: Trans-Fat: Avoid this Cholesterol Double Whammy
