Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a serious threat to both your mental and physical well-being. To overcome PCOS you need to maintain a healthy lifestyle which includes a specific diet plan for PCOS. A Diet plan matters the most because everything you eat has a direct impact on your endocrine system, which regulates your hormones. Therefore, there are certain foods to avoid with PCOS because they are considered the worst foods for PCOS by experts.
7 Foods to avoid in PCOS
In this article, health crescent has mentioned a list of food to avoid with PCOS. The foods in the list are healthy in moderate amounts in general, but women with PCOS are suggested to limit their intake of such food items because it can worsen polycystic ovarian syndrome.
1. Dairy products
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where women have irregular menstrual cycles, high levels of male hormones called testosterone, and enlarged ovaries. Women who suffer from PCOS often experience acne, weight gain, hair loss, and infertility.
A diet rich in dairy products may worsen symptoms of PCOS. Dairy products increase insulin production, which increases the amount of testosterone produced by the body. Insulin also causes fat cells to produce more testosterone. In addition, high-fat dairy products cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to increased testosterone production.
Research studies show that the risk of acne occurrence increase with the intake of some dairy products. Therefore, it is advised for women to limit their intake of dairy products.
Some studies indicate that taking low-fat dairy products (such as greek yogurt) can have significant positive effects on insulin resistance and they may reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
Switching to low-fat dairy products and limiting their intake instead of avoiding them is the best idea. Because there are certain healthy fats that are required for proper body functions and better health.
2. Sugar
Sugar is one the worst foods for PCOS because sugar consumption can trigger hormonal changes that affect fertility. When sugar enters the bloodstream, it triggers the release of insulin, which then stimulates the pancreas to secrete even more insulin. Over time, this cycle results in insulin resistance, which can cause problems with ovulation.
Studies also indicate that intake of simple carbs is associated with type 2 diabetes and heart-related diseases.
We cannot quit sugars because carbs are an essential part of balanced diet nutrition. The alternative to simple sugars is complex sugars, for instance, dietary fiber and starch.
Complex carbohydrates are effective in treating hormonal imbalances and body inflammation due to PCOS.
3. Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can disrupt hormone balance, causing a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels. Estrogen and progesterone play a role in regulating menstruation and ovulation. If these hormones drop too low, a woman may not ovulate regularly and she may experience irregular menstrual cycles.
Alcohol consumption not only worsens the symptoms of PCOS but also affects your mental well-being. About 27 to 50% of women with PCOS suffer from depression and anxiety. In this way, alcohol interferes with your CNS and may increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems. That’s why alcohol is known as one of the worst foods for PCOS women.
4. Processed foods
Processed foods contain preservatives and artificial ingredients that can alter hormone levels in the body. Preservatives like sodium benzoate and sorbates can inhibit thyroid function and reduce the activity of enzymes that help break down hormones. Artificial ingredients like MSG and aspartame can cause headaches, fatigue, depression, irritability, and mood swings leading to stress, which ultimately worsens PCOS.
Processed foods are often high in refined grains and added sugars. These foods can cause inflammation and disrupt hormonal balance. To alleviate symptoms of PCOS you must avoid processed foods in PCOS and other hormonal imbalances.
Benefits of Green Tea For PCOS
5. Fried food
Fried foods are high in saturated and trans fats, which are linked to heart disease. Trans fats raise cholesterol levels and interfere with the body’s natural hormone regulation.
These foods also increase the risk of obesity and inflammation, one of the major contributing factors to PCOS.
6. Refined carbs
Refined carbs such as white rice, pastries, and refined bread are the foods to avoid in PCOS because they rapidly spike blood glucose and constantly trigger the release of insulin hormone due to the high glycemic index. This type of rapid glucose spike deteriorates the existing symptoms of PCOS. It makes the management of PCOS difficult.
Refined carbs are also a major contributor to obesity. They are highly processed and lack fiber. Fiber helps keep the digestive system running smoothly, which prevents constipation and diarrhea.
7. Coffee
Coffee contains caffeine, a substance that can stimulate the nervous system and cause anxiety. Caffeine can also raise blood pressure and heart rate, which can make it harder for the body to regulate its hormones. So, the consumption of coffee increases the risk of hormonal imbalance in women with PCOS.
Although, there is no evidence suggesting that caffeinated beverages themselves impair ovulation to the point of decreasing fertility.
The Bottom Line
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women these days. The only way to manage PCOS is to have to a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet. To balance hormones, you can also use certain medications and supplements that promote weight loss and balance hormones.
Experts recommend the use f DIM Supplement 200 mg for treating hormonal imbalance in both men and women. To buy the product click on the product image and give us your positive review of the product on our health store.
