PCOS Diet: Foods That Can Make Symptoms Worse

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects millions of women worldwide, disrupting their lives with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and fertility issues. While there is no cure for PCOS, lifestyle changes, particularly diet, play a vital role in managing its symptoms. Recent studies have shown that certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of PCOS, so we need to be extra careful about what we eat. So, what foods can trigger PCOS? Let’s check it out!

Foods that can worsen symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome

1. Refined carbohydrates

– White bread and pasta: These are made with refined grains that can increase blood sugar levels, leading to insulin resistance, a common problem in women with PCOS. Insulin resistance can worsen symptoms like weight gain and irregular periods.

– Sugary cereals: Many breakfast cereals are packed with sugar and refined carbs, which contribute to insulin spikes and inflammation. Opting for whole grain options without added sugar is a better choice.

2. Sugary drinks

– Soft drinks and fruit juices: The high sugar content in soft drinks and even some fruit juices can cause rapid increases in blood sugar, triggering insulin resistance. This can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, particularly weight gain and acne.

– Energy drinks: These often contain not only sugar but also caffeine, which can disrupt hormone levels and exacerbate anxiety and sleep disorders in women with PCOS.

3. Processed and red meats

– Deli meats: These are often high in harmful fats and additives that can increase inflammation in the body, a condition that is already common in women with PCOS. Processed meats can also contribute to weight gain and exacerbate insulin resistance.

– Red meat: While not all red meat is bad, high consumption of fatty cuts can lead to increased cholesterol and inflammation levels, further complicating PCOS symptoms.

4. Dairy products

– Whole milk and cheese: Some studies suggest that dairy products may increase androgen levels, which can worsen symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth in women with PCOS. Additionally, dairy products can cause insulin spikes, which is harmful for those with insulin resistance.

– Ice cream and butter: These high-fat dairy products can contribute to weight gain and inflammation, worsening overall PCOS symptoms.

5. Fried foods

– French fries and fried chicken: Fried foods are often high in unhealthy trans fats, which can increase inflammation and lead to weight gain — two factors that can worsen PCOS symptoms.

– Chips and snacks: Not only are these fried but they also contain high levels of salt and preservatives, which can cause water retention and further aggravate PCOS symptoms.

6. Sugary snacks and desserts

– Cakes, pastries and sweets: These are packed with refined sugars and unhealthy fats that can cause blood sugar spikes and weight gain. Eating them regularly can worsen insulin resistance and contribute to worsening PCOS symptoms.

– Chocolate bars: While dark chocolate consumed in moderation can be beneficial, milk chocolate and chocolate bars are high in sugar and fat, leading to weight gain and worsening of problems related to PCOS.

7. Caffeine

– Coffee and tea: High caffeine consumption can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate hormonal imbalances in women with PCOS. It can also interfere with sleep, which is crucial for hormonal regulation.

– Energy drinks and caffeinated soft drinks: These not only contain caffeine but also high levels of sugar, making them doubly detrimental to managing PCOS symptoms.

8. Alcohol

– Beer and cocktails: Alcohol can interfere with liver function, which is essential for hormone regulation. It can also cause weight gain and disrupt sleep patterns, worsening PCOS symptoms.

– Wine and spirits: While moderate alcohol consumption may not have significant effects, excessive consumption can exacerbate insulin resistance and contribute to weight gain, two factors that are detrimental to women with PCOS.