Polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly referred to as PCOS, is a disorder that affects the hormones responsible for ovulation. Affected women may have difficulty getting pregnant or may have irregular periods. There is no known cure for PCOS, but treatments can help improve symptoms.

PCOS is caused by an imbalance in the hormones insulin and testosterone. Insulin controls how much sugar is stored in our muscles and liver, while testosterone helps to create eggs and promote fertility. When these hormones are out of balance, they can lead to PCOS symptoms.

PCOS and Weight Gain

PCOS is a condition that affects around 10% of women and is caused by an imbalance in the hormones estrogen and progesterone. One of the side effects of this imbalance is weight gain. There are a few things you can do to help manage your weight and PCOS, including:

- eating a balanced diet that includes foods from all the major food groups

- exercising regularly

- avoiding processed foods, sugars, and excessive carbs

- taking birth control if you’re not already taking it

If you’re struggling with PCOS and weight gain, talk to your doctor about treatments that may be available to help.

Foods to Avoid in PCOS

There are many foods that can aggravate PCOS symptoms, but there are also a few that can help to improve your health and manage your symptoms. Here are six foods to avoid in PCOS:

1. Wheat and other gluten-containing grains

Gluten is a protein found in many grains, including wheat. People with PCOS may have difficulty digesting gluten, which can lead to an increase in insulin levels and inflammation. Gluten-free diets may be a good option for those with the disorder.

2. Dairy Products

People with PCOS often have issues with their hormones, so dairy products can trigger problems like acne and hair loss. Additionally, milk and cheese contain high levels of IGF-1, which has been linked to increased insulin resistance and other metabolic issues in people with PCOS. Opt for alternatives like soy milk or almond milk instead.

3. Sugary Drinks

Drinking too much sugar is a common cause of weight gain and diabetes in people with PCOS, which can worsen the disorder’s symptoms. Avoid sugary drinks like soda, energy drinks, sweetened coffee beverages, and fruit juices altogether. Instead, Drink unsweetened herbal tea or water enriched with healthy Omega-3 fatty acids to stay hydrated and support your overall health.

4. Starches such as Potatoes and Pasta

Starch-rich foods like potatoes and pasta can increase blood sugar levels after they're eaten, which can aggravate PC.

5. Legumes

Legumes (such as beans and lentils) have been linked in studies with an increased risk of developing PCOS and other issues related to insulin resistance such as type 2 diabetes mellitus. If you do eat beans or lentils, make sure they are cooked thoroughly before consuming them so that they do not contain excessive amounts of lectins that can aggravate symptoms in people with PCOS.

6. Processed Foods

These foods tend to be high in sugar and other unhealthy ingredients. Instead of eating these types of foods, try to stick to whole, natural foods as much as possible.

Conclusion

If you are currently living with PCOS, it is important to know about the foods that can cause problems for people with the condition. Some of these foods include high-grain diets, processed foods, artificial sweeteners, and excess sugar. By following a healthy ketogenic diet and avoiding these difficult to adhere to food choices, you can help maintain your health and fertility while managing your PCOS.

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