PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. It is considered to be among the most common hormonal disorders in women during their reproductive years. The symptoms of PCOS vary from individual to individual. The common symptoms of PCOS include mood changes, infertility, headaches, fatigue, irregular periods, diabetes, weight gain, pelvic pain, and recurring infections. It is very important to first understand the reason why one experiences the symptoms. This occurs because of the ovulation not being regular. PCOS is considered to be mainly of 5 types: insulin resistant, post pill-induced or pill-induced, inflammatory, hidden cause, and stress-induced.
The usual treatments of PCOS involve hormonal birth control pills, injections, and other medications. We strongly recommend speaking with your doctor before you start treating PCOS yourself.
Treating PCOS Without Medication
- Improving gut health is very important. It is linked with hormonal health, after all. Therefore, if gut health is improved, it will help to provide relief from PCOS. You are advised to consume vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, beans, and seeds. These foods have a lot of fiber which helps keep the digestive system healthy. You are also advised to eat fermented foods as they contain probiotic bacteria. Fermented foods include yogurt, kimchi, and kefir.
- It is extremely important to ensure that vegetables form a major portion of your diet. You should also include coconut oil, avocados, and virgin olive oil in your diet.
- The consumption of processed foods should be minimized.
- You should also keep your weight under control.
- Consume foods that are rich in antioxidants. This is because these foods reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation affects ovulation. Foods that are rich in antioxidants include cilantro, kidney beans, blueberries, blackberries, and cranberries.
- The importance of a stress-free lifestyle cannot be overemphasized. It is easy to get stressed amidst hectic work schedules. Manage stress by meditating often and maintaining a balance between work and life.
