Although the exact reasons PCOS occurs aren’t entirely clear, researchers now believe there is a correlation between PCOS and increased insulin. While there are of course medical ways to control insulin (for example, Metformin, Glucophage, and other related diabetic prescriptions), often a positive and healthful, less drastic first step is to work on improving your diet. The following explains why this is the case:
…insulin is a hormone that is produced by the pancreas and its major role is to break down the sugar cells in your blood to release energy that will be used by your muscles and organs. The problem with increased insulin is that it can lead to diabetes. Therefore, if you have increased insulin, it is important to lower the level of insulin in your body. And, if you have PCOS, if you decrease the insulin then this can help regulate your menstrual and ovulation cycles that are often a byproduct of PCOS.
The best way to regulate your insulin level is to apply strict dietary guidelines. Since most diets consist of low fat but high carbohydrate foods, they are not suitable for PCOS sufferers. Carbohydrates, especially simple carbohydrates, promote insulin production and will only make the matter worse. So instead of a low fat – high carb diet, you should go with foods that have a low glycemic index. The glycemic index indicates how fast the sugar contained in certain foods is absorbed by the body. Foods that are made of glucose that is slowly absorbed by the body will promote a gradual production of insulin and prevent complications related to the overproduction of insulin, including PCOS.
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In addition, this article – although targeted at teens with PCOS – is loaded with great information and links for anyone with PCOS, including recipes, meal assessment plans, healthy snacks and more to help set you on the right direction for healthy eating with PCOS.
Stay tuned tomorrow to learn about other treatment options for PCOS, symptom by symptom.
