Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is a common hormonal disorder that affects up to one in ten women of reproductive age. It is characterized by high levels of androgen hormones (DHEA and testosterone), along with poor blood sugar regulation and insulin resistance. Symptoms of PCOS can range from irregular periods to infertility, and it may also lead to weight gain, acne development, thinning hair, and cysts on the ovaries. Causes are many in today’s world, including stress, HPA axis dysfunction, environmental toxins, gut health issues, and the standard American diet which is high in sugars and ultra-processed foods.
One of the most effective ways to manage PCOS is by balancing your blood sugar. We will explore how The Better Weigh nutrition programs and lifestyle changes can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve your overall health.
- Reduces Insulin Resistance: Women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, which results in excess insulin in the bloodstream. The high concentration of insulin triggers the ovaries to produce more testosterone, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and acne. By consuming low glycemic meals, the body needs less insulin, leading to a decrease in insulin resistance.
- Promotes Weight Loss: Women with PCOS often struggle with weight gain. A low glycemic diet can help you lose weight by reducing insulin resistance, improving glucose control, and decreasing cravings. On The Better Weigh nutrition programs, the body switches to burning fat for energy instead of glucose, which can lead to a decrease in stored fat. Studies have shown that a low glycemic meal plan can help women with PCOS lose weight and improve overall cardiovascular health markers like insulin levels, LDL cholesterol, and blood pressure.
- Reduces Androgen Production: Women with PCOS have higher levels of androgens – male hormones – than women without PCOS. This hormonal imbalance can lead to symptoms like acne, unwanted hair growth on the face, chest and back, hair loss on the head, and irregular menstrual cycles. Decreasing their glycemic load can help reduce androgen production by reducing insulin levels, which in turn reduces testosterone production.
- Improves Fertility: One of the most frustrating symptoms of PCOS is infertility. PCOS leads to irregular menstrual cycles, which makes it difficult for women to ovulate and conceive. A low glycemic nutrition program like ours can help improve fertility by balancing blood sugar, reducing insulin resistance and as a result, balance hormones like follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials showed that a low carb diet can help women with PCOS improve their menstrual cycles and increase the chances of natural ovulation, leading to improved fertility. (PMID: 31885557)
- Provides Nutrient-Dense Foods: According to the PCOS Guidelines by the American Reproductive Medicine Association, nutrition is the number one tool for managing PCOS symptoms. The Better Weigh protocol eliminates ultra-processed foods and refined carbohydrates and replaces them with nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean proteins. The three structured phases help our clients make lifestyle adjustments to not only achieve results, but also maintain overall health outcomes long-term.
Conclusion
The Better Weigh nutrition programs can be an effective way to manage PCOS symptoms and improve overall health outcomes. By reducing insulin resistance, promoting weight loss, reducing androgen production, improving fertility, and providing nutrient-dense foods, Ideal Protein can help women with PCOS manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. If you’re struggling with PCOS, we encourage you to reach out to The Better Weigh today and schedule acomplimentary consultation!