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Ask A Dietitian by Nicole R. Hudon, RDN/LD Q: My daughter was recently diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Are there any changes in her diet that can help? A: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), despite being one of the
than 30% of total calories) have not been proven to be beneficial and
most common endocrine disorders affecting women, it is often un-
are not recommended, especially as this group often fights hypo-
derdiagnosed and undertreated. Since lifestyle change and disease
glycemia. Omega-3 fatty acids improve triglyceride levels and aid in
prevention are considered some of the most important aspects of
regulating hormones.
caring for PCOS and as it can affect women at any point during the reproductive cycle, it is important to make lifestyle changes as early
Foods to choose: Fish, legumes, green tea, low fat-dairy, nuts, flax,
as possible so as to prevent other conditions as PCOS increases
olive and canola oils, high-fiber carbohydrates and a variety of col-
a woman’s risk of infertility, obesity, Type 2 diabetes (approxi-
orful whole fruits and vegetables.
mately 50% will develop diabetes or prediabetes by age of 40), metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, mood disorders and
Foods to limit: red meat, added sugars, concentrated sweets, fried
some cancers.
food, starchy vegetables, juices with added sugars, alcohol.
PCOS is caused by higher levels of male hormones, such as testos-
Eat every 3-4 hours and include a low-fat protein source every time.
terone. Some of the symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain
Whey protein has been shown to be highly effective in regulating
(especially in the abdomen), acne, excessive body hair, dirty looking
insulin levels. Consider whey protein infused water to hydrate be-
patches of skin, carbohydrate cravings, and high triglycerides.
tween meals to help reduce cravings for sweets.
Treatment of PCOS often includes a combination of medication, ex-
Other supplements showing promise include:
ercise, diet and other lifestyle modifications. The most stressed out-
(NAC), cinnamon, Myo-inositol, Fish oil, alpha-lipoic acid magnesium
come for this group is weight loss of 5-10% as excess weight is so
and vitamin D (consult with your healthcare provider for dosing if not
strongly linked to the long term health issues stated above.
contraindicated). Other things to consider: Meditation and adequate
N-Acetylcysteine
sleep (6-8 hours) to lower stress and insulin levels; limiting exposure Your health care provider may prescribe medication to help improve how your body uses insulin and carbohydrates. Regular exercise helps to lower insulin levels (a primary cause of weight gain). A combination of aerobic exercise and weight training is the most effective for weight loss in this group. As far as dietary measures, there is not a specific, optimal diet. Evidence suggests that eating plans that focus on lower glycemic index (GI), higher protein, anti-inflammatory foods divided into small, frequent meals were most effective. Very low carbohydrate diets (less
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to BPA (a compound used in plastic food and drink containers).