Polycystic ovary disease also is known PCOD is a disorder that causes problems like metabolism and hormonal imbalance. With one in every 10 women suffering from it, the condition is becoming very common these days due to major lifestyle changes.
In PCOD, numerous small cysts develop in the ovaries. This condition leads to erratic hormonal behavior and increases the risk of diabetes, acne, infertility, and excessive hair growth.
There is no known cause of PCOD. The most known symptom of this disease is irregular periods. In a lot of women, PCOD is detected when they are trying to get pregnant. It can be detected by doing blood tests and ultrasound.
Common symptoms of PCOD
Irregular periods are one of the most common symptoms of PCOD. Other symptoms are diabetes, infertility, acne, weight gain, oily skin, migraine, excessive hair growth, and cardiovascular problems. When periods are largely irregular, the chances of uterus cancer may also increase. Mood swings and depression are also the lesser-known and rare symptoms of the condition.
Irregular periods are big-time trouble for women suffering from PCOD. To minimize the problem, one should increase their intake of antioxidants, prebiotics, probiotics, and spices like cinnamon and ginger. Women suffering from PCOD should also increase their intake of complex carbohydrates, low glycemic index foods and micronutrients like selenium, magnesium, and chromium. The dairy content that they should avoid is full-cream milk.
As women with PCOD are insulin resistant, they should also avoid deep-fried foods, simple carbohydrates, sugar, honey, and jaggery. Keeping a check on the water intake is also very important as PCOD makes one prone to constipation and water retention, says the doctor.
Managing PCOD can be hard, as one needs to work out regularly, eat super healthy and follow their doctor's advice.
Dietary tips for women suffering from PCOD
Avoid red meat
A study conducted in 2013 found that eating meat can increase the risk of infertility, so it’s best to avoid it. Processed meats like hot dogs, sausages and luncheon meats should be avoided.
Do not eat saturated and hydrogenated fats
Saturated fats are found in many foods but mostly in animal and dairy-based products. Saturated fats can increase cholesterol and calorie intake. Baked goods are full of these fats, so one must avoid them.
Eat the colors of 'traffic light'
Dark green and leafy vegetables such as lettuce and broccoli and red fruits like berries are densely rich in nutrients and antioxidants. Plant proteins like dried beans, legumes and lentils should also be an element of the daily diet
Opt for a diabetic diet
Women diagnosed with PCOD/PCOS are insulin resistant. Hence, they must follow the diabetic diet. Their diet must be rich in fiber and low in carbs and processed foods. Opt for foods with a low glycemic index which is made from whole wheat, wheat flour, whole grains, brown rice, poha, and wheat pasta.
Avoid sugar and refined cereals
PCOD patients must avoid refined carbohydrates like pastries, white bread, and biscuits. They should also avoid consuming sugary beverages such as sodas and energy drinks.
Eat small frequent meals
PCOD patients sometimes also experience water retention and the best way to prevent that is by having enough water and consume small and frequent meals.
Have seeds
Having flaxseeds and sesame seeds can do marvels for PCOD patients.
*Do not eat more than 20 grams per day.
