Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a syndrome of ovarian dysfunction caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. It is one of the most common disorders in reproductive-age women with an estimated prevalence of 6-8 %. Having PCOS implies an increased risk of infertility, endometrial carcinoma, obesity, Type 2 diabetes (T2DM), abnormal cholesterol levels, hypertension, and possibly cardiovascular disease.
The women with
PCOS experience a hormonal imbalance and metabolism problems which may affect their overall health and appearance. The most common symptoms of PCOS include:
- Menstrual irregularities like irregular or heavy periods.
- Inability to get pregnant
- Acne
- Excess facial and body hair, showing up in a male pattern (including the upper lip, chin, and chest)
- Obesity
- Bloating
- Fatigue
Given the strong connection to excess weight, high insulin levels and other metabolic problems, a balanced diet & an active lifestyle is ideal for reversing PCOS. Diet & lifestyle management is the only treatment that consistently and reliably lowers insulin levels and reverses the metabolic issues that include PCOS. While there is no known "cure" for PCOS, there are ways of mitigating the condition. Here are the five ways of potentially reversing PCOS symptoms:
Eliminate processed foods
Processed foods contain very little nutrients and high amount of trans fats, calories, and additives like preservatives, artificial colors, etc. In PCOS, your body is thriving for wholesome nutrition, consumption of processed foods like bread, pasta, wafers, biscuits, sauces, and even frozen foods can prove to be counterproductive in your efforts to manage this condition.
Start incorporating whole foods in your diet
Sourced straight from nature, whole foods are foods that have not been altered or processed in any way. Due to no processing, they are high on nutrients. If you are including whole foods in your diet then you would never need to calculate the amount of calories or fats that you are consuming. To start with, replace half of your grains with whole grains like quinoa, jowar, bajra, ragi, barley, etc and start incorporating raw as well as cooked veggies in your every meal.
Start with some basic exercise
Regular physical activity is extremely beneficial for PCOS patients. Exercise not only helps in providing a general sense of wellbeing but helps to control weight, improve insulin levels and alleviate stress. Do activities or workouts that you actually enjoy, if you hate going to the gym then find out some other activity of your interest like yoga/ cycling/ dancing or even walking!
Detoxify your body as soon as you wake up
Detoxification is helpful for improving the body's natural elimination system while also balancing pH levels in the body and also helps in controlling any bacteria, candida, and yeast build-up in the body. Start your morning with some simple detox drink like Lemon water or even Apple cider vinegar detox drink.
Add in supplements
Ensuring your body has the proper vitamins & mineral profile is vital for healing. Supplements can help your body build its immune system, restore energy levels, balance hormones, and promote healthy blood flow. Talk to our health coaches to know more about what supplements you should consider.
To know more about health conditions, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Download our magazine Spunky Indian to read exclusive stories.
