PCOS treatment diet
What are the best foods for PCOS?
A diet high in refined carbohydrates, such as starchy and sugary foods, can make insulin resistance, and therefore weight loss, more difficult to control.
Research has found that what people eat has a significant effect on PCOS. That said, there is currently no standard diet for PCOS.
However, there is widespread agreement about which foods are beneficial and seem to help people manage their condition, and which foods to avoid.
Foods to avoid
- foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and muffins
- sugary snacks and drinks
- inflammatory foods, such as processed and red meats
Foods to add
- high-fiber vegetables, such as broccoli
- lean protein, such as fish
- anti-inflammatory foods and spices, such as turmeric and tomatoes
Three diets that may help people with PCOS manage their symptoms are:
- A low glycemic index (GI) diet: The body digests foods with a low GI more slowly, meaning they do not cause insulin levels to rise as much or as quickly as other foods, such as some carbohydrates. Foods in a low GI diet include whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, starchy vegetables, and other unprocessed, low-carbohydrate foods.
- An anti-inflammatory diet: Anti-inflammatory foods, such as berries, fatty fish, leafy greens, and extra virgin olive oil, may reduce inflammation-related symptoms, such as fatigue.
- The DASH diet: Doctors often recommend the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet to reduce the risk or impact of heart disease. It may also help manage PCOS symptoms. A DASH diet is rich in fish, poultry, fruits, vegetables whole grain, and low-fat dairy produce. The diet discourages foods that are high in saturated fat and sugar.