Women's Health Guide: Avoid these 7 foods to treat PCOS

Avoiding certain foods can help manage PCOS by reducing insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, leading to better overall health.

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Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects the majority of women all over the world. PCOS treatment primarily involves lifestyle modification, one of which is food modification. There are some foods that will worsen the condition by leading to insulin resistance, causing inflammation, or disrupting hormone balance. There are seven foods one should not consume in case they have PCOS.

Avoid these 7 foods to treat PCOS:

1. Refined Carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, baked products, and boxed cereals, have zero fiber and nutrients. They are a source of insulin and blood sugar spikes and exacerbate the symptoms of PCOS.

2. Sweetened Drinks

Sports drinks, sweetened flavored drinks, and fruit juices have excessive amounts of added sugars, causing insulin spikes and hypersecretion of androgen. This causes acne and hirsutism.

3. Processed Snacks

Chips, crackers, and instant noodles are laden with processed flour, unhealthy fats, and artificial foods. They lead to insulin resistance and inflammation, which further exacerbate PCOS symptoms.

4. Dairy Products

Milk is otherwise nutritious but contains natural hormones that lead to high androgen levels and hence acne and hirsutism. High insulin also leads to increased testosterone production, further disrupting hormonal balance.

5. Excessive Red and Processed Meats

Processed and red meats contain saturated fats and preservatives, which cause inflammation and endocrine disruption. Meat that is high in fat may potentially worsen insulin resistance and weight gain.

6. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners, introduced as diet alternatives, may cause damage to gut health and insulin sensitivity. Certain studies suggest that they might trigger appetite and worsen metabolic issues in PCOS.

7. Alcohol

Alcohol interferes with hormonal balance and may cause inflammation, which is harder to treat PCOS. Alcohol consumption may cause weight gain and liver stress, and treatment of PCOS may become harder.

PCOS is controllable through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and healthy lifestyle habits. Steer clear of such foods and give preference to nutrient-dense meals, which will stabilize insulin, prevent inflammation, and overall promote well-being.