Your Ob-Gyn told you, you have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) which may affect your well-being as a woman. Don't worry for you are not alone. According to Women's Health, there are over 5 million women in the United States who may be affected by the said hormonal disorder. With PCOS, women typically have missed, excessive or irregular periods, numerous small cysts (fluid-filled sacs) in their ovaries, and high levels of androgens.
As all these are said to have a significant effect on your menstrual cycle, fertility, and increased hair growth on the face and body, you surely want to help your body deal with it naturally. Here are some foods that you may opt to eat often to help you cope with PCOS.
Since hormonal imbalance is found to be its primary underlying problem, changes in your weight and metabolism can be observed. A PCOS-friendly diet requires high in protein, fiber, and ample amounts of essential vitamins and minerals. Consume fruits, vegetables, cereals, oats, whole grains, lean meat and even healthy fats such as omega 3 fatty acids, which are vital for weight management and fertility.
Rich in iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, vegetables are also loaded with vitamins and minerals that may alleviate PCOS symptoms. They do lots of wonders in the body: helping to transform dietary fat, protein and carbohydrates into energy, maintaining normal blood sugar levels, and boosting metabolism that aids weight management.
Just like vegetables, fruits should be included in your daily meals. Being a good source of essential nutrients, fruits are rich in calcium, potassium and magnesium that are needed in alkalizing minerals that help counteract acidity.
Likewise, calcium is necessary for the production of insulin as it plays an important role in egg maturation and follicle development in the ovaries. This is commonly found in kale, broccoli, Swiss chard, spinach, collards, and the herbs thyme, oregano and basil – they make a great addition to a salad, soup or casserole.
It is always best to partner balanced diets with regular exercises. Through these, you could surely start managing PCOS little by little.
