Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome, in short, is called as PCOS and it is one of the most common health issues women are suffering from, in today’s generation. It is caused due to hormonal imbalances and metabolism problems that may affect their overall health cycle. In Today’s world, 5 to 10 percent of women, aged in between 14 to 45 have high risk of getting PCOS
Symptoms of PCOS
There are so many symptoms for PCOS depending upon the age and its severity. But, here are the most common ones among all.
- Weight gain
- Increase in anxiety or depression
- Irregular Menstrual Cycle
- Acne on face & Body
- Unwanted hair growth
- Hair loss on Scalp
- Infertility in married women
How is it Diagnosed
There is no single test to diagnose PCOS. Depending upon the age & Symptoms it will be confirmed by the doctor.
Physical Test
This test is taken out by measuring Blood Pressure, BMI, range of Acne, and amount of growth of unwanted hair and by signs of other health conditions.
Pelvic exam
This test is used to find out the hormonal levels, presence of extra male hormones. Also, to check if ovaries are enlarged or swollen.
Pelvic Ultrasound
This test uses sound waves to examine your ovaries to check whether there are any cysts and levels of endometrium.
Blood tests
This is a test to known the cholesterol levels in blood, and also for diabetes & Common health Problems which are mistaken for PCOS like Thyroid.
Treatment to be carried out at home
There are some preventive steps that have to be followed at home, in order to improve the condition of PCOS.
Weight loss
Losing weight can improve your condition of PCOD. It may help to lower your blood glucose levels, improve the way your body uses insulin, and help your hormones reach normal levels.
Control of Hair growth
One can control the hair growth by facial hair removal creams, laser hair removal, or electrolysis to remove excess hair. Treatments have to be taken under the supervision of doctor and they help in controlling.
Doing Physical Activities
While suffering from PCOS, diet and exercise can be extremely helpful in treating the symptoms to lead a healthy, happy life. Doing Cardio exercises will help in reducing Insulin Resistance & in Stabilizing moods. Exercises like squats, push-ups, or triceps dips improve the function of insulin in your body. Exercises like brisk walking, jogging, cycling or swimming can also reduce the risk of Cardiovascular diseases.
Diet Plan for PCOS
The proper diet has a significant effect on PCOS. The following diet foods are beneficial to the health of PCOS affected persons.
- An anti-inflammatory diet
An anti-inflammatory diet like fatty fish, leafy greens, Spinach and olive oil, which may reduce inflammation symptoms and help in improving the condition.
- Low GI diet
Human body digests GI food slowly and thereby it doesn’t increase more insulin. Eating a lot of whole grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, fruits, starchy vegetables, red grapes, blueberries, blackberries, and cherries lowers the insulin resistance and reduces the devastating effects of the disease.
- DASH Diet
DASH is a Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet to reduce the risk of impact on heart diseases. It is rich in fish, poultry, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy produce, pine nuts, walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
Foods to avoid while on PCOS
People on PCOS should avoid the following foods to control its level.
- Meat like steaks, hamburgers, and pork.
- Solid fats including margarine, shortening, and lard.
- Fried foods, fast foods. Sugary beverages like sodas and energy drinks.
- Pastries & White Bread.
There is currently no cure for PCOS but it is possible for a person to reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life by adopting a healthful diet and becoming more physically active.