Losing Weight To Relieve Your PCOS Symptoms

Polycystic ovarian syndrome, or PCOS, is often thought of as a reproductive issue, but recent research is suggesting more than ever that it is actually a form of metabolic disorder. Hormonal imbalances in your system may lead to weight gain, fertility issues, and the eponymous ovarian cysts, but as much as 80 percent of overweight PCOS patients also suffer from insulin resistance that appears to be a direct consequence of their condition. Because this insulin resistance may be responsible for causing or exacerbating many of your symptoms, it is important to manage your weight and diet, if only to prevent progression into diabetes. 

Exploring the Link Between PCOS and Blood Sugar

The precise relationship between insulin and PCOS is still not perfectly understood. What is relatively clear, however, is that PCOS symptoms in women tend to diminish or even disappear when their insulin resistance is treated. Polycystic women who were given the diabetes medicine metformin, for example, were found to have higher ovulation rates than women taking a placebo, and it is also associated with significant weight loss and a reduction in hirsutism in PCOS patients. 

Understanding How Weight Loss can Manage Your Symptoms

Medication alone typically isn't enough to fully control PCOS, however. Insulin resistance builds up over time as the cells in your body become unable to absorb sugars in your blood effectively. Weight loss is typically simply a side effect of a healthier diet, which can reduce the negative side-effects of insulin resistance as well as controlling your risk for diabetes later on. 

Limiting Your Carbohydrate Intake

Losing weight without PCOS can be difficult enough, but it's even more challenging when your body is actively working against you. When looking at weight loss programs, choose a diet that is low in refined carbohydrates, including sugars and highly processed flours. These carbohydrates can fuel your insulin resistance, making it that much more difficult to shed the pounds. Typically, a diet high in proteins, vegetables, and lean meats is best for women with PCOS, but you should consult with your program's dietitian to find the right plan for your body and lifestyle.  

Boosting Your Weight Loss Through Exercise 

Of course, diet alone may not be enough to make the progress you need, particularly if you are dealing with fertility issues and would like to lose weight both quickly and healthily. Combining your diet plan with exercise is usually part of any weight loss program, and you should be able to work your way up to more strenuous activities as you get back into shape. If you have been struggling with PCOS and your weight for some time to no avail, a medical weight loss clinic may be able to provide you with the structure and support you need to finally make real progress. Contact your local weight loss program provider today to explain your condition and begin formulating a plan to get the results you need. 

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