What is PCOS?

Polycystic Ovarian Disease or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a very common hormonal problem for women of childbearing age. In this, cysts are formed in the ovaries. PCOS causes the growth of many small, fluid-filled sacs inside the ovaries, these sacs contain immature eggs, but due to PCOS condition, these eggs don’t get mature enough to allow ovulation. No ovulation leads to a decrease in progesterone levels and a more than usual increase in androgen levels. This excess in male hormones leads to disruption in the menstrual cycle and other changes.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

PCOS signs and symptoms can develop as soon as a girl gets her first period or in her 20s and 30s. Generally, most women find out that they have PCOS when they get tested for not being able to conceive. However, there are other symptoms, one should look out for, they are-

• Irregular periods
• Ovarian cysts
• Oilier skin than usual and acne
• Thinning and loss of scalp hair
• Unusual weight gain or obesity
• Abnormal hair growth on the face stomach, chest, or back
• Pain in the pelvic region
• Difficulty in conceiving

Natural Remedies for PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is becoming a very common issue these days. Women have started making lifestyle changes to keep this condition in check and natural treatments can also help in the same. Here are some natural remedies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)-

• Increase the intake of Whole Foods

Whole foods are absent of artificial sugar and preservatives, making them perfect for a PCOS diet. Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes are some examples of whole foods which can be consumed in their almost natural and unprocessed form. They keep your insulin level in check and control PCOS. 

• Add Fiber to your diet

Fiber improves digestion. Foods like- lentils, broccoli, avocados lima beans, pears, and brussels sprouts are rich in fiber. These foods help fight bloating and constipation, which are common during the menstrual cycle of PCOS women.

• Add Anti-inflammatory foods to your diet

PCOS is a condition of low-level chronic inflammation and consuming anti-inflammatory foods can reduce PCOS symptoms. Tomatoes, olive oil, green vegetables, tree nuts, and fatty fish like tuna and mackerel are good for fighting inflammation.

• A balanced intake of Carbohydrates and Protein

Carbohydrates influence the level of blood sugar in the body, they result in high insulin levels. To manage PCOS, you should include plant-based protein sources like- legumes, nuts, whole grains, and high-fiber food. Consuming protein can improve insulin sensitivity.

• Up your Magnesium intake

To fight PCOS symptoms, you can eat magnesium-rich foods like- almonds, cashews, bananas, and spinach. Magnesium keeping helps in keeping the insulin levels in check and also in getting a night of proper sleep. 

• Increase the intake of Iron

In some cases, women who have PCOS can experience heavy bleeding during their menstrual cycle, which can result in iron deficiency, making them anemic. The doctor might recommend you some iron supplements or foods rich in iron like- spinach, eggs, broccoli, and liver to add to your diet.

• Avoid Coffee intake

Caffeine, which is an important component of coffee increases the level of estrogen in the body, which may result in hormonal imbalance. Instead, switch to Green Tea which improves insulin resistance and also helps in managing the weight reduction of PCOS women.

• Consume Soy products

Food products, which are made of soy or have soy protein like- tofu, soy milk, miso, and tempeh help in balancing the estrogen level in the body, and hence the normal secretion of hormones is maintained. However, make sure you consult your doctor before adding soy to your diet as it is not healthy for people who have estrogen-related problems like breast cancer.

• Avoid eating junk and oily food

Oily and junk food are a big cause of weight gain and also do not allow the proper functioning of the digestive system. This leads to a rise in several PCOS symptoms. Hence, oily and junk food should be cut out from the diet.

• Regularly Exercise

Exercising regularly is vital to keep the body fit. One should exercise for at least 3 hours a week. Exercising burns calories, which helps in keeping insulin levels in the body under control.

Conclusion

People who have PCOS usually have higher levels of insulin and eating the right food and avoiding certain things can help you in managing this syndrome. A proper diet full of whole food and anti-inflammation food, etc can bring positive results to your hormones and your menstruation cycle. On the contrary, consuming processed and oily food can cause inflammation and insulin resistance. 

Apart from the natural remedies for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome PCOS, having proper sleep cycles and keeping stress out of your life are important to keep PCOS at bay and ease off the complications which come with this syndrome.