PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is such a common medical issue these days that according to research around 5 million women in America are suffering from it. PCOS is a common condition among 5-10% of women of childbearing age. It is an endocrine disorder in which high levels of insulin and male hormones in the body are released that create a host of other problems for women, the major one being infertility or problems in conceiving.
Women with PCOS have the following problems:
- Irregular periods
- Hirsutism
- Obesity
- Insulin resistance
- Diabetes
- Hair loss
- Cystic acne
- Conceiving problems
Although there is no cure yet, there are remedies or treatments to reduce the symptoms and issues that arise with this condition. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, here are some lifestyle changing tips that may alleviate the symptoms:
- Curb the carbs
Women with PCOS have very high levels of androgens and one of the reasons it is released in their body is by eating a lot of carbohydrates. Avoid eating all things white. Of course we know you can’t completely get rid of it but taper it down as much as you can till it is hardly a part of your diet. White bread, rice and pasta are a definite no-no for you but you can opt for their brown alternatives. Eat more proteins, fish, and vegetables and you will see that your insulin levels remain at bay. Wholegrain, nuts, and seeds should be your new best friends and high sugar foods your worst enemy.
- Get moving
The majority of women who have PCOS are quick to gain weight and it gets really hard to keep it off. Create a healthy lifestyle for yourself by including physical activity on a daily basis. It doesn’t have to be an intense workout but should be just enough to break a sweat and make you really feel as if you did something. 30-60 minutes a day of gym time or exercises at home/park are great.
- Cut back on the sweet stuff
Many people think that just avoiding common sugary food items such as candy, chocolates, baked goods etc are enough but there are so many foods that have sugar loaded in them. Stop drinking diet sodas as they have the same amount of sugars. Cut back on the HFCSs (high fructose corn syrup) that are commonly found in ketchup, cereal and other sauces.
- Drink less coffee
Research has shown that high levels of caffeine in the body of PCOS sufferers can aggravate the condition even more. You don’t have to quit cold turkey but even a tiny change like reducing one cup of coffee from your daily dose can do wonders. Caffeine increases estrogen levels and that increase the severity of the PCOS as well.
To find out more about PCOS, it might be time to consult your physician about it. Dr. Parikh at irvingprimarycare.com is a certified physician with years of experience treating different forms of pain and heath conditions in patients. Call 469-262-5762, or visit www.healthonemedicine.comfor more information.