Most of the symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) and the long term health risks are associated with insulin resistance and higher levels of the hormone insulin and male hormones (androgens) in the blood. A healthy PCOS diet / eating plan and losing weight are two of the main things you can do to improve health (and fertility if you are trying to get pregnant) with PCOS.
Insulin resistance is a medical term referring to the hormone insulin not working as effectively in the body. Insulin is produced by the pancreas. The normal function of insulin is to lower the blood glucose level, by helping the cells in the liver and muscles ‘take up’ glucose. In people with insulin resistance, the muscles and the liver resist the action of insulin, so the body has to produce higher amounts to keep the blood glucose levels in a normal range. This causes high levels of insulin in the blood (often referred to as hyperinsulinaemia) and increases the long term risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. High levels of insulin can also make it difficult to lose weight.
Insulin resistance also increases the amount of male hormones (androgens) produced by the ovaries. This can cause irregular periods, difficulty getting pregnant and increased acne and body hair. These problems can be improved by treating insulin resistance.
It is estimated that up to 80% of women with PCOS have insulin resistance. The incidence of insulin resistance is higher in women with PCOS who are very overweight, but many women with PCOS who are within their healthy weight range also have insulin resistance. It is thought that the insulin resistance is caused by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. Research over many years has showed that insulin resistance can be greatly reduced by making lifestyle changes such as eating well, losing weight and being physically active. Sometimes medications (such as Metformin) are also prescribed. Even if you are taking medications, it is still very important to follow a healthy eating plan and be physically active. In fact losing weight if you are overweight, following a healthy diet for PCOS and being physically active are recommended as the first things to change when you have been diagnosed with PCOS.
You can find more information on this blog about the best diet for PCOS.
Claire Daly is an Accredited Practising Dietitian / Accredited Nutritionist who works with women and families. She has particular interest in working with women who have PCOS (Claire has PCOS herself), fertility problems or who are wanting to achieve a healthy weight and good health prior to and during pregnancy. Claire has her own private practice in Melbourne. For more information visit www.eatwell.com.au
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