It's unclear if consuming dairy is good or bad for insulin regulation. However, it can cause inflammation in some women, and exacerbate other PCOS symptoms. Any pros or cons from dairy on fertility are likely to be small. But we know that dairy makes PCOS acne worse.
To manage symptoms there are plenty of “PCOS diets” which include removing various food groups such as gluten, dairy, carbohydrates and soy but, in fact, no food or food group needs to be removed to manage PCOS.
Dr Priyanka adds that PCOD patients should avoid refined carbohydrates like mass-produced pastries, white bread and biscuits. They should also avoid consuming non-nutritive calories like sugary beverages such as sodas and energy drinks.
We don't know the exact cause of PCOS, but genetics and family history play an important role. PCOS may be associated with the hormone levels in your body before birth and your lifestyle or environment.
Because of the direct influence on androgens and insulin, it is advisable for women with PCOS (who have acne or not) to limit their dairy intake to 2 or fewer servings each day and go for the full-fat versions.
Dairy and gluten are some of the most common sources of food intolerances, which can lead to poor gut health and inflammation in the body overall. Think debilitating symptoms like indigestion, bloating, nausea, stomach pain.
Myth #2: If You Lose Weight, You Can Get Rid of PCOS
Unfortunately, there is no cure for PCOS, but overweight and obese women can help balance their hormone levels by losing weight. Otherwise, treatment is aimed at managing symptoms.
Dairy products
Many categorise dairy products as superfoods that can help you stay fit. However, they can disrupt your hormonal balance. Milk can lead to inflammation in the gut and mess with the hormones. Consuming milk in excess raises the triglycerides levels and can contribute to the development of diabetes.
Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E, a strong antioxidant that lowers oxidative stress and inflammation. Since it is thought that oxidative stress and inflammation play a role in the onset and progression of PCOS, consuming foods strong in antioxidants, such as almond milk, can be advantageous.
Eggs are great for women with PCOS trying to lose weight. They are full of protein that helps curb unhealthy cravings and have nutrients that improve PCOS symptoms.
Some studies have suggested that cow's milk may increase insulin resistance and androgen levels in women with PCOS, exacerbating their symptoms.
Peanut butter has a glycemic index of 14, indicating that it does not induce a fast surge in blood sugar and insulin levels. As a result, peanut butter is an excellent complement to your PCOS diet. It contains a balanced source of healthy fat, fiber, protein, and sugar.
Excess consumption of dairy which is a carbohydrate can lead to an increase in blood glucose level and also stimulate insulin growth factors. Therefore, maintain a balanced diet with the required diary content. Fried foods like fritters and Indian deep fried foods should be avoided.
Many women with PCOS, endometriosis, and other hormone-related disorders have reported symptoms diminishing or going away completely once they've cut out dairy.
Regular exercise, healthy foods, and weight control are the key treatments for PCOS. Treatment not only reduces unpleasant symptoms—it can help prevent long-term health problems from forming.
As previously stated, the shape of a PCOS belly differs from other types of weight gain. It often appears large and bloated but can also be small and round, depending on genetics and other factors. The PCOS belly involves the accumulation of visceral fat in the lower abdomen and typically feels firm to the touch.
While these effects can benefit both men and women, intermittent fasting may be an especially useful dietary strategy for women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (commonly known as PCOS). Intermittent fasting for PCOS can reduce symptoms and improve fertility and other quality-of-life outcomes.