Ruchi Kumar
PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) is a hormonal disorder among females that has shown a rapid increase in the past few years. As the name suggests “polycystic” means a number of cysts. There is accumulation of cysts on ovaries in the females affected with PCOS. Obesity is believed to the chief associated risk factor of PCOS but in some cases it is believed that PCOS is hereditary disease that runs among the families from one generation to another. It is a common disease among females especially among women who has primary or secondary infertility. It is most common among women between late adolescence and menopause. Only 30% of these cases are diagnosed.
How PCOS affects your body
When androgen levels are not in the normal range there are high chances that they can affect the various aspects of our health which includes fertility.
Infertility and metabolic syndrome
PCOS is one of the chief risk factors associated with female infertility. It is very important to have proper ovulation for fertilization. Women with PCOS are obese which means they have higher BMI (body mass index) that increases their risk for various aspects that are important for healthy body which includes increased blood sugar and blood pressure.
Decreased “good” cholesterol and high LDL “bad” cholesterol. These factors combined together are called metabolic syndrome, and they increase the risk for cardiac arrest and diabetes.
Sleep apnea and depression
This condition involves interrupted sleep due to breathing problems. This condition is more prevalent in women with PCOS and it is severe in women who are obese as well as are having PCOS.
Hormonal imbalance can cause various issues among women like increased facial hair, obesity and improper menstrual cycle which can lead to anxiety and depression.If ovulation is not proper it can result in thickened uterine lining which increases the risk for endometrial cancer.
How does diet affect PCOS?
Women with PCOS do not have normal insulin levels. Pancreas helps to produce insulin in our body. It helps to convert sugar into energy that helps us to do the metabolic activities. If less insulin is produced in the body it results in increased blood sugar levels. It happens also if a person becomes insulin resistant which means insulin is produced in normal amounts but cannot be used effectively.
If a person is insulin resistant then the body tries to pump out high levels of insulin so that the blood sugar levels are normal. High insulin production can lead ovaries to produce more androgens, like testosterone. Intake of carbohydrates and starchy food can make weight loss and management of insulin resistance more difficult.
Balanced diet comprises of foods that are less sugary and have low glycemic index which includes green leafy vegetables, fresh fruits, lean meat which includes fish, chicken. Food having high fiber content like lotus stem, roughage are also beneficial for maintaining proper weight.
Foods having low glycemic index helps the body to maintain normal insulin range by releasing it slowly and steadily. It helps the body to convert sugars into energy rather than storing it in the form of fat. Fibrous food also helps to maintain the steady sugar levels in the body for normal functioning.
Carbohydrates are very important for the normal growth and development of the body but it should be taken in proper amounts. Carbohydrates are broken down into sugars. Processed foods are actually refined carbs that’s why they should be avoided. Most common of them are maida, rice, refined sugar and potatoes. Carbonated drinks, artificial jellies, jams and juices should be avoided because of high sugar content
Exercise and weight management
Regular exercise is very important as it helps to fight obesity. Exercise helps to burn calories and helps to control insulin resistance. It helps to low down the cholesterol levels and helps to maintain hormonal levels like that of testosterone. Low fat diet and roughage must be included in the diet for weight management. Portion size is also a key factor in maintaining weight. Now a days various calorie counting aids are available to keep a track on what we eat. They can be used to maintain proper weight.
(The author is a Scientist, University of Kashmir)
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