What is PCOD/ PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or Polycystic ovary disorder (PCOD) is a condition found in around 10-12% of women of childbearing age. Women with this condition typically have multiple cysts in ovaries caused by an overproduction of hormones called androgens
Although the most common symptom is irregular periods, but it may remain undetected for many women. This condition can cause fertility problems and hence in many cases, it is diagnosed when women try to get pregnant. Ultrasound and blood tests like testosterone are some ways to detect this condition
Symptoms of PCOD/ PCOS:
Absence of menstrual period – high levels of male hormones causes irregular or absence of menses.
Acne/Oily skin –High testosterone levels causes acne problem.
Weight gain- woman’s with pcod are insulin resistance and slow metabolism cause weight gain.
Baldness/ Hair growth - PCOS also causes baldness or hair growth on the face and body
Migraine, Mood Swings etc.
Causes of PCOD:
Heredity
Hormonal imbalance
Insulin resistance
Life style
Serious Health issues linked to PCOD
Studies also found that women with PCOD are at higher risk of other health problems like
Diabetes
Heart related issues
Sleep Apnea
Depression/ Anxiety
Uterus Cancer
Recommended Diet and lifestyle Changes
Lifestyle changes like weight loss, diet, and exercise will help in insulin resistance
Weight loss- Losing just 10% percent of your body weight can help regulate your menstrual cycle and improve PCOS , Balance diet helps you lose weight can help your condition.
A low glycemic food (low-GI) – Low Glycemic index foods and complex carbohydrates from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, oats helps regulate the menstrual cycle better than a regular weight loss diet.
Avoid inflammatory foods- Processed foods, junk foods, and packed items, refined oils should element from diet. Focus on anti- inflammatory foods such as a coconut oil, fruits, vegetables, berries, raisins etc.
Exercise- At least 5 days a week can help women with PCOS lose weight. Losing weight with exercise also improves metabolism and insulin levels.
Superfoods to treat PCOS:
Coconut oil- coconut oil contain MCT (medium chain triglycerides ) will helps keep insulin and blood sugar levels stable, it nourishes help maintain healthy cell structure.
Cow ghee- ghee has anti-inflammatory properties, which works wonder in pcod. 1-2 tsp cow ghee helps to reduce PCOS symptom
Seeds- seeds are rich in antioxidant and good fats, Pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium. Micronutrients like magnesium important to maintain insulin. Flax seeds contain good amount of omega 3 fatty acids, and helps to regulate mensuration cycle.