PCOS Awareness Month: Ever wondered why PCOS or PCOD causes weight gain; Check out the food list for what to eat and avoid

• Image Credit: google

• Sep 8, 2023 | Poonam Nath

The month of September has been chosen as PCOS Awareness Month, to raise awareness and educate women...

Digital Desk: PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) or PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) is a disorder that affects reproductive-age girls and women. It can cause hormonal imbalance and metabolism issues, which can result in a variety of side effects such as missed periods, weight gain, hair loss, and facial hair, among other symptoms. It can also cause fertility problems in certain women. 

However, September is labelled as PCOS Awareness Month, intending to raise awareness and educate women about the disorder, which often goes undetected. 

Dr. Harsh Desai, Director, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sterling Hospitals, Gurukul, discusses the disease, symptoms, cure, and more ahead of PCOS Awareness Month.

Talking about PCOD, or Polycystic Ovary Disease, is a disorder affecting the ovaries in women. It occurs when there is a hormonal imbalance, which results in irregular periods. This imbalance can lead the ovaries to generate a large number of immature eggs, which eventually develop into cysts. PCOD can cause irregular periods, fertility issues, excessive hair growth, acne, and weight gain. It's like a hormonal mismatch in the body.

Why do women suffering from PCOD gain weight?

Dr Desai explained that weight gain is a common complication of PCOD, and it occurs for a variety of causes. For starters, the body does not use insulin (a hormone) effectively, resulting in belly fat accumulation.

Second, PCOD disrupts hormone balance, making people more hungry and prone to fat storage. Finally, the metabolism of the body alters, making it simpler to acquire weight and more difficult to remove it. The impact of PCOD on insulin, hormones, and metabolism leads to the weight gain seen in people with this illness. 

Why Is a Balanced Procedure for PCOD Important?

Dr. Desai says. when dealing with PCOD, weight gain can occur rapidly, making balance critical. To avoid overeating, keep a close check on portion sizes. 

Stay active by doing regular activities that include cardio and strength training to help with weight and health. Seek specific counsel from a gynaecologist or nutritionist. Stay patient and continue your food and lifestyle adjustments - it may take time, but a slow and steady approach works best for managing PCOD and weight.

Food to intake:

Dr. Desai stated, that to manage PCOD, a balanced diet that includes whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, and oats are important. These have a lesser effect on blood sugar levels and can aid in the management of insulin resistance. Meat, chicken, fish, tofu, lentils, and beans should also be included in your diet. Protein can help reduce hunger and keep blood sugar levels stable. 

Avocados, almonds, seeds, and olive oil are all good sources of healthy fats that help with hormone production and overall wellness. Anti-inflammatory foods such as berries, leafy greens, turmeric, and ginger can also help reduce inflammation linked with PCOD.

Foods to avoid: 

Dr Desai advised avoiding processed sweets such as sugary snacks, desserts, and sweet drinks because they can aggravate insulin resistance and induce weight gain. Reduce your use of white bread, white rice, and other refined carbohydrates that cause blood sugar spikes. 

Reduce your intake of fried foods and fatty meats high in harmful fats. Lower your intake of dairy and gluten, as these foods may increase inflammation in some people with PCOD. Limit coffee and alcohol consumption as well, as excess can alter hormonal balance and induce inflammation.