Frankie Bridge says she’s been diagnosed with polycystic ovaries
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Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. It is a metabolic disorder which involves insulin and metabolism. Therefore a healthy diet can have a huge impact on the disease. But what foods should you avoid if you have PCOS?
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a medical condition which causes hormonal imbalances and problems with metabolism.
The health condition is experienced by one in 10 women of childbearing age.
The disease is earmarked by irregular periods or by no menstruation at all.
Women with the condition have multiple cysts in their ovaries as a result of an overproduction of hormones called androgens.
Around half of the women with the disorder are overweight or obese.
Sufferers often experience acne, hirsutism which is excessive hairiness or male pattern baldness.
When symptoms are not managed, PCOS can lead to severe health challenges including diabetes, cardiovascular problems, depression or increased risk of endometrial cancer.
Diet and lifestyle choices play a huge role in controlling PCOS symptoms and ensuring the condition does not escalate.
How does diet impact polycystic ovary syndrome?
PCOS sufferers are often found to have higher than normal insulin levels.
Insulin is produced in the pancreas and helps your cells turn sugar into energy.
Some diets can make insulin resistance and weight loss more difficult to control.
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What foods should you avoid if you have PCOS?
Refined carbohydrates
Foods high in refined carbohydrates such as white bread, muffins, breakfast pastries, sugary desserts and anything made with white flour.
These foods cause inflammation and exacerbate the insulin resistance.
These should therefore be avoided or limited significantly to control your PCOS symptoms.
Sugary foods and drinks
Sugar is a carbohydrate and should also be avoided where possible as it will have a similar impact on the sufferer’s health.
Sugary beverages including sodas and energy drinks can also have a bad effect on symptoms.
Sugar also disrupts one hormone balance in the body.
Seed oils
Seed oils are typically in many processed foods and restaurants.
These types of oils are unhealthy due to the omega 6 fats which can cause inflammation.
Inflammation is one of the primary causes of insulin problems, hormone imbalance, and PCOS.
Avoid them by avoiding processed foods, and by cooking with coconut oil, olive oil, or ghee (clarified butter) at home.
Solid fats
Solid fats such as margarine, shortening and lard should also be avoided as they can be unhealthy.
These types of fats tend to result in inflammation which is hazardous for PCOS sufferers.
Red meat
Red meat is higher in saturated fat which can contribute to weight gain.
In particular, steaks, hamburgers and pork should be avoided where possible.
Coffee
The caffeine in coffee can increase your stress hormones which in turn increases your insulin levels.
Becoming accustomed to coffee decreases your insulin sensitivity, making it more difficult to regulate your blood sugar levels.
The acidity of coffee causes digestive discomfort, indigestion, heartburn, and imbalances in the gut microbiome.
Caffeine can also disrupt sleep and promotes anxiety.
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