Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a lifestyle disease that is becoming increasingly prominent among women in the current times. The principle factor in terms of PCOS is that the ovaries do not function optimally and are unable to perform the function that they do, i.e. secretion of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Since hormonal imbalances occur in the body, the amount of testosterone ends up increasing than the required amount and this leads to development of several undesirable changes such as excessive facial hair and acne. Weight loss is another issue that arises in people who have PCOS. Despite rigorous efforts, people suffering from PCOS are unable to lose weight because of hormonal imbalances and other accompanying factors that include insulin resistance. Only a healthy and balanced lifestyle can counter the effects of this disease.
Losing weight with PCOS is all about regulating one’s food intake and eating breakfast has numerous weight loss benefits. Breakfast is the most important meal because it is the first meal of the day and a heavy breakfast can keep you full throughout the day, as in, reduce cravings and help you have a lighter lunch and dinner. As the day progresses, the body’s ability to digest food declines and hence light dinners are popular among weight loss and fitness enthusiasts. A heavy breakfast sets one up for the day. However, heavy does not mean fattening. If you have PCOS, you should mind the fact that a low carb is extremely important for you. Including foods like oatmeal, bananas and whole wheat breads in your breakfast are a good choice since these foods have a low glycemic index which makes them slow energy releasing foods and the process aids management of PCOS.
Cutting down on carbs and sugar while prioritizing complex carbs and foods with low glycemic index would help greatly. Simply replace white sugar and white rice with their brown counterparts. Adding fruits to your diet is a great way to cut down on added sugar since fruits are replete with natural sugars that aren’t as harmful. Adding vegetables to the diet also helps prevent overconsumption of calories and adds other vital nutrients to your diet that help optimize metabolism and body functions. For dinner, try and fill half your plate with salads and vegetables while the other half would have carbohydrates and protein so that the meal is balanced and not fattening. In case you like to snack a lot, do so without guilt but ensure that you engage in mindful eating and don’t eat mindlessly just to fill yourself up. Ensure that you eat only what makes you feel full and good. Mindful eating goes a long way when it comes to achieving weight l
