If you have PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) then you’ll know how much it can affect your whole life, especially if you have been trying to start a family. The good news is that there have been numerous studies that show that diet and lifestyle changes can greatly improve PCOS even with small changes.
PCOS is actually quite common and can affect up to 10% of women. Many people don’t even realise that they might have it and see the symptoms as something unrelated. Usually it contributes to depression, weight gain, excess facial hair, high blood pressure, irregular periods and as I’ve already mentioned – infertility which can be frustrating if you want to know how to fall pregnant fast.
Losing weight is usually the first thing that doctors recommend for women with PCOS. Reducing just a few pounds can help the way the body processes insulin and can improve both acne and your fertility. However many women have trouble losing weight when they have the condition even when exercising and eating a healthy diet.
Usually the most successful diets for improving PCOS are low carb diets and low GI diets. But you shouldn’t cut carbohydrates out completely. Instead of eating highly processed carbs such as breads, pasta and cereals, instead think brown rice, beans and pulses and fresh fruit and vegetables.
You should also aim to include enough protein to help balance the glucose levels in the blood.
Of course it goes without saying that you should avoid unnecessary sugars in your diet that have no nutritional value and are just empty calories. These include cakes, donuts and sweets. This also includes artificial sweeteners which can also spike insulin levels.
Supplements are also recommended for women with PCOS to make sure they are regularly getting a good balance of the right vitamins and minerals. Omega 3′s are also important as they can reduce inflammation in the body and balance hormone levels.
Some of the better diets for sufferers include the Glycemic Impact Diet, South Beach Diet and Weight Watchers.
Low impact exercise done regularly can go a long way in improving PCOS symptoms. Walking, swimming and yoga are all great forms of exercise that will help to regulate your blood pressure. Yoga is especially beneficial because it also helps reduce stress levels and stress is well known to interfere with hormonal balance.
Of course it’s always best to try a healthy diet with the guidance of your health professionals who may also suggest fertility stimulants such as Clomid if you are trying to conceive.