Diet and lifestyle modifications for effective management of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Abstract

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is caused by abnormal production of androgens resulting in the formation of small fluid-filled sacs in the ovaries. This condition worsens the life quality of women by disturbing their physiology and psychology in reproductive age. PCOS may also be associated with other morbidities like diabetes and hypertension. Numerous factors like imbalanced dietary patterns, poor lifestyle activities, improper care and medication, late diagnosis, and ignorance are involved in the prevalence of this disease in women. Hence, an early diagnosis and improved dietary and lifestyle management may improve the life quality and timely recovery of the patient from this disease. Various herbal extracts show a positive correlation in reducing the indicators associated with PCOS. This review discusses the effect of dietary and lifestyle practices on PCOS as prominent features. It has been recommended that a balanced diet with 40% energy from carbohydrates, 30% from fats, and 30% from protein with optimum physical activity could reduce severe PCOS symptoms and improve metabolic balance. Furthermore, recommendations for modification of diet and lifestyle activities are made which may positively influence the recovery from PCOS. Practical applicationsPolycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) severely affects the life quality of suffering women. The dietary patterns, lifestyle activities, and co-medical conditions collectively affect the severity and related consequences of PCOS. This article provides sufficient information on dietary and lifestyle modifications to effectively manage this disease. Furthermore, dietitians, nutritionists, gynecologists, and obstetrics physicians can benefit from the information provided in it to understand and develop the management strategies to alleviate the disease symptoms and severity.

Effectiveness of combined seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, flaxseed): As adjacent therapy to treat polycystic ovary syndrome in females

“…Shahid et al ( 2022 ) found a significant improvement in LH levels in PCOS women after seed cycling. Studies identified a decrease in LH after seed cycling in PCOS women, which is consistent with our findings.…”

Quality of Life of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

“…In the context of lifestyle modification, maintaining an appropriate diet is crucial. This involves primarily reducing the intake of high glycemic index carbohydrates, adopting a low-calorie diet, increasing fiber and polyunsaturated fat consumption, and decreasing saturated fats [3,18,35,36]. Another vital aspect of modifying the lifestyle of women with PCOS is regular physical exercise, which, when combined with an appropriate diet, can lead to a reduction in excessive body weight and alleviate bothersome PCOS-related symptoms, ultimately contributing to enhanced well-being.…”

“…This approach not only facilitates effective interviews but also contributes to formulating a treatment plan geared toward mitigating or addressing the prevailing symptoms and achieving the desired outcomes for the patient. Consequently, it is essential to delve into the quality of life experienced by women with PCOS and the prevalent challenges they encounter [14][15][16][17][18][19][20]. This includes exploring aspects such as family life, social interactions, sexual well-being, professional engagements, parenthood, fertility treatments, and potential feelings of helplessness linked to issues like hirsutism or accompanying metabolic conditions.…”

The Mediterranean Lifestyle to Contrast Low-Grade Inflammation Behavior in Cancer

“…Physical exercise, when properly performed in moderation and in conjunction with an anti-inflammatory diet such as the traditional Mediterranean diet, also has an essential role in preventing and fighting cancer, as has been shown by various epidemiological, observational, and meta-analysis studies [ 28 , 29 ]. Consistent exercise alters several biochemical markers associated with cancer cell metabolism [ 30 ].…”