The Best Diet for Women with PCOS

Most women with CFS/FMS have low levels of the hormones testosterone and DHEA. But a small subset of women have elevated levels — and accompanying symptoms, like acne or darkening of facial hair. This condition is called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Therapy includes strictly avoiding sugar and taking metformin, an excellent and safe medication for diabetes. These therapies can dramatically help women with PCOS, and also help decrease their CFS/FMS symptoms.

A new study shows that a diet low in carbohydrates (like sugar) and high in protein is very helpful in PCOS.

The six-month study involved 57 women with PCOS. Some of them ate a diet with 40% of calories from protein; the rest ate a diet with 15% of calories from protein. Those on the high-protein diet lost more weight, more body fat, and had lower levels of blood glucose (sugar). "Replacement of carbohydrates with protein … seems to offer an improved dietary treatment of PCOS," concluded the Danish researchers.

Reference

"Diet with Higher Protein-to-Carb Ratio Benefits Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome." Sorensen LB, Soe M, et al, Am J Clin Nutr, 2012 Jan; 95(1): 39-48.