Foods For Women To Fight PCOS

Monday, May 27, 2013, 18:18 [IST]

PCOS: Symptoms and how to manage it, by Dr Rishma Dhillon Pai; Hormonal imbalance in women | Boldsky

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is becoming a common health problem among women. Commonly known as cysts, this disorder in women was only possible after the age of 25. But now, even young women in their 20's are suffering from PCOS these days. Unhealthy diet, lack of physical activities, lack of nutrition and bad habits like smoking or drinking are affecting the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

Now, what is PCOS? Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a disorder that is faced by women who are in their reproductive age. This means the age duration where a woman is having a healthy and active menstruation cycle. Imbalance of sex hormones is one of the major causes of PCOS. This affects the normal menstrual cycle as improper menstrual cycle leads to the formation of small cysts in the ovaries which affect the normal functioning of the reproductive system. PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome also makes it difficult for a woman to conceive.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is curable. By balancing the hormonal levels, PCOS can be treated. To prevent PCOS, women as well as teen girls must get involve in physical activities and include healthy foods. Vitamin D rich foods for example can reduce the reproductive health issues especially PCOS. Even omega-3 fatty acids are good for women who have PCOS. Also, low-glycemic index foods are good for fighting PCOS in women. Take a look at foods that women with PCOS must include in their diet.

Foods to fight PCOS:

Salmon

This type of healthy fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in glycemic index. They are not only heart healthy, but salmon improves androgen hormone levels among women with PCOS.

Lettuce

The green vegetable is healthy and nutritious. Insulin resistance is one common cause of PCOS, so include the healthy lettuce in your diet.

Barley

Barley is low in GI (Glycemic Index) and a low fat whole grain. Low GI reduces chances of insulin resistance and fights PCOS.

Cinnamon

Apart from fighting PCOS, the aromatic spice can also lower insulin levels in the body and treat obesity.

Broccoli

The green superfood is rich in vitamins and low in calories and GI. Also the cancer-fighting properties of broccoli makes it a healthy and must have food in women's diet.

Crimini Mushrooms

Women suffering from PCOS must have these low cal and low GI mushroom in their diet.

Tuna

Tuna fish is very nutritious as they are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins which fights PCOS in women.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are low in glycemic index and rich in lycopene. Tomatoes are anti-ageing foods and aids weight loss too.

Sweet potatoes

If you have cravings for sweets then this low GI food is ideal for women to fight PCOS.

Egg

Eggs are healthy and is considered as a superfood for women. Have boiled egg without yolk as yolk contains high cholesterol that can be harmful for the heart.

Milk

Calcium is required by women who suffer from PCOS. It helps in egg maturation, follicle development in the ovaries and strengthens bones. Drink at least 2 glasses of skimmed milk to stay fit and healthy.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a must-have! This dairy product is not only rich in calcium, but also protects the women from infections like UTI.

Licorice roots

According to researchers, licorice roots consumption reduce plasma testosterone which helps fight PCOS.

Spinach

This low calorie and nutritious superfood is low in calories. Women with PCOS must have low cal foods to induce ovulation and avoid infertility due to obesity.