A common disease among women is polycystic ovary syndrome, PCOS, which are fluid-filled cysts that collect on one or both ovaries and usually go away on their own.

Women suffer from polycystic ovaries because of an endocrine malfunction, which leads to a hormonal disorder in the body, which leads to the interruption or irregularity of the menstrual cycle.

Women who suffer from PCOS should follow a healthy diet as food is one of the factors that control the chances of developing complications which may reach the point of infertility in some cases.

Why does PCOS require a healthy diet?

Polycystic ovaries cause an increase in insulin resistance in the body, which prompts beta cells in the pancreas to secrete high levels of this hormone to maintain blood sugar levels. This imbalance is considered by doctors as one of the primary indicators of diabetes and causes weight gain.

A woman with PCOS must follow a healthy diet, which combines a lack of calories and contains nutrients that help control blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance in the body, such as fibre, skimmed protein, antioxidants, omega-3 acids and healthy fats. Stay away from simple sugars, refined carbohydrates and saturated fats.

PCOS treatment

There is no definitive treatment for this problem, but the symptoms can be controlled by developing an integrated treatment plan, which includes taking some medications that aim to increase fertility and reduce the risk of complications of PCOS, such as heart disease and diabetes.

In addition, there are some steps that the patient must take that will improve symptoms by changing the lifestyle, committing to exercising regularly, as well as following a healthy diet that ensures staying away from the types of foods prohibited for PCOS patients.

Foods to avoid with PCOS patients

- Refined carbohydrates

- Fried and processed foods

- Processed meat

- Excess red meat

- Sugary drinks

- Solid fats

Foods allowed for PCOS patients

- High-fibre foods can help reduce insulin resistance by slowing digestion and reducing the effect of sugar on the blood. Broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, watercress, red and green peppers, almonds, lentils, beans, winter squash, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes are all good.

- Lean protein sources such as tofu, chicken, and fish keep you from feeling full and are a healthy food choice for PCOS.

- Anti-inflammatory foods like tomatoes, cabbage, spinach, almonds, walnuts, olive oil, fruits and fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids.

- Foods with a low glycemic index such as whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, starchy vegetables, and other low-carb, unprocessed foods.

Tips to reduce PCOS

- Weight loss can improve symptoms and general risks that lead to long-term health problems from PCOS.

- The diet should include at least five servings per day of vegetables and fruits as well as whole foods and lean meats.

- Eating fruit should be spread throughout the day.

- Do not skip meals to lose weight, but rather eat moderate amounts of whole grains, protein, and healthy fats at regular mealtimes.

- Green tea, which is rich in antioxidants, has been shown to reduce insulin resistance and testosterone in women with PCOS.

- Drink enough water.

- Exercising can help reduce insulin resistance.

- Symptoms associated with PCOS can cause stress, and stress-reducing practices such as meditation and yoga can help calm the mind and allow for a connection with the body.

Photo: TNS