Frequently Asked Questions
How can changes to your diet and lifestyle help PCOS?
Making changes to your diet and lifestyle can help manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) symptoms and improve overall health. Here are some ways changes to your diet and lifestyle can help with PCOS:
● Improve insulin sensitivity: PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance. A healthy diet and regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels.
● Reduce inflammation: PCOS is also associated with inflammation. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, can help reduce inflammation.
● Manage weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help improve PCOS symptoms, particularly those related to insulin resistance. A combination of healthy eating habits and regular exercise can help with weight management.
● Regulate menstrual cycles: PCOS can cause irregular menstrual cycles. Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help regulate menstrual cycles.
● Improve fertility: PCOS can also affect fertility. Managing weight and regulating menstrual cycles can help improve fertility in individuals with PCOS.
● Reduce cardiovascular risk: Women with PCOS are at an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help reduce this risk.
It’s important to note that changes to your diet and lifestyle should be made in conjunction with medical management and advice from a healthcare provider or registered dietitian.
What should we include or avoid in a PCOS-friendly diet?
A PCOS-friendly diet should include complex carbohydrates, lean protein, healthy fats, low-glycemic index foods, and fibre-rich foods. Foods to avoid include processed foods, sugary drinks, high-fat dairy products, foods high in saturated fats, excessive caffeine, and alcohol. Work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a personalised nutrition plan.
How does your diet affect polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?
Diet can significantly affect PCOS by impacting insulin resistance, inflammation, weight management, hormone balance, and fertility. A diet rich in fibre, protein, and healthy fats, and low in refined carbohydrates and sugar can help improve PCOS symptoms. It’s important to work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a personalised nutrition plan.
What should I eat during pregnancy to manage PCOS symptoms?
To manage PCOS symptoms during pregnancy, focus on a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports hormonal health and pregnancy. Prioritise low-glycaemic index (GI) foods such as whole grains, legumes, and non-starchy vegetables, which help stabilise blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity. Include lean proteins (e.g., chicken, fish, tofu) and healthy fats (e.g., avocado, olive oil, nuts) to support hormonal balance and reduce inflammation. Add high-fibre foods like leafy greens, berries, and whole grains to aid digestion and support healthy weight management. Consume omega-3 fatty acids (from fatty fish or flaxseeds) to help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Avoid processed sugars and refined carbohydrates, which can worsen insulin resistance and PCOS symptoms. Stay hydrated and ensure you’re taking folic acid supplements as recommended by your healthcare provider to support foetal development and prevent birth defects. For personalised guidance, consider consulting Katrina Ridout, an experienced Dietitian based in Queensland, who can help tailor a diet plan that supports both your PCOS management and a healthy pregnancy.
Should I take supplements when trying to get pregnant with PCOS?
Yes, taking certain supplements can support fertility and help women with PCOS who are trying to conceive. Key supplements include myoinositol to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate ovulation, folic acid to prevent birth defects and support early pregnancy development, vitamin D to help with hormone regulation and fertility, omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and improve egg quality, and magnesium to support insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. Other helpful supplements may include zinc, chromium, and probiotics to further support hormonal balance and reproductive health.
If you’re in Queensland, it’s particularly important to consult with a healthcare provider or dietitian, such as Katrina Ridout, who can guide you on the best supplements for your specific situation. Supplements should complement a balanced, nutrient-rich diet for optimal results when dealing with PCOS and fertility.
How can I manage gestational diabetes during pregnancy if I have PCOS?
To manage gestational diabetes during pregnancy with PCOS in Queensland, focus on a low-GI diet with whole grains, non-starchy vegetables, and lean proteins to regulate blood sugar. Eating smaller, frequent meals and including healthy fats like avocado and nuts will support balanced blood sugar levels. Regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity but always check with your doctor before starting any new activities. Monitoring your blood sugar regularly and staying hydrated with water, avoiding sugary drinks, are essential. Supplements may be recommended by healthcare providers like Katrina Ridout in Queensland to help manage PCOS during pregnancy. Work closely with your healthcare team, including a dietitian, to create a personalised plan for optimal blood sugar control and a healthy pregnancy.
