The connection between PCOS and weight loss is a dual one: being obese or overweight is a risk factor for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and it is also a result of the disorder because weight gain related to insulin resistance is one of the results and symptoms of the disorder.
How PCOS and weight loss are correlated
According to some estimates, more than half the women with PCOS fall into the obese category. Many experts recommend that weight loss and lifestyle modification is probably the most effective solution for managing PCOS and controlling its effects.
So in terms of resolution as well, PCOS is connected to weight loss. Being obese increases not only PCOS risk but also risk of diabetes, heart disease, cholesterol and irregular periods.
And losing the weight will help control symptoms such as Hirsutism, hormonal imbalances, lowered fertility or anovulation, and heart disease risk as well.
This however is much easier said than done, because women with PCOS find weight loss more difficult than in normal circumstances.
Many women with the disorder find that no matter how hard they try, they find the extra pounds impossible to budge. So the correlation between PCOS and weight loss is a complex one.
How can women with PCOS lose weight?
No matter what short cut solutions some so called experts and product manufacturer’s promise, the fact is that there is really no miracle method or shortcut to achieve weight loss with PCOS. Good old healthy eating and regular exercise are the really best ways to go about it.
Exercise – Regular exercise if very important for PCOS and weight loss. It isn’t just the fact that exercise will help in weight loss efforts; exercise also helps by helping women with insulin resistance. Research has found that even moderate amounts of activity can help women lower their insulin resistance.
So be sure to pick activities that are enjoyable; and which a woman with PCOS is more likely to stick to. Consider learning to dance, or learning a new sport, joining a group walkers or bicycle enthusiasts.
Carbohydrate control – Rather than relying on pastas and bread and cereal for carbs, switch to carbs derived from unprocessed foods such as whole grain, fruit and vegetables, beans and so on. Increasing intake of protein also tends to help manage blood sugar. Reducing overall food intake (total calories regardless of source) is also important
The rule of thumb in a diet for PCOS and weight loss should be to reduce the overall intake, reduce the proportion of carbs and to substitute simple carbs with complex carbs in the diet.
Diabetes and other medication – Since insulin resistance is one of the main problems connected with PCOS and one that is known to lower fertility, women with PCOS should speak to a doctor about taking diabetes medications.
This may not only help lower blood sugar levels and lower insulin resistance, but may also help in weight loss. So it is important to discuss this aspect of PCOS and weight loss with the health care provider to see what medication may be prescribed for a given case.
