More Information about Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Weight Loss and Lifestyle Change

PCOS is one the most common endocrine disorders among women, affecting as many as 1 in 10. While there is no cure for PCOS, the symptoms can be managed, and significant improvements in health can be achieved.

What is PCOS and Who Does It Affect?

Despite being one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women, most women don't know if they have it. While the causes of PCOS are unclear, the condition was first noted over 70 years ago, and was previously known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, although it affects more than just the reproductive system. In its full presentation, a host of systems can be affected. While there is no known cure, PCOS can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes, most notably that of dietary modification and physical fitness.

Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)

• Hormonal imbalances, including higher than normal androgens
  (male hormones)

• Elevated blood pressure

• Irregular or absent menses

• Numerous cysts on the ovaries in many
  (not diagnostic and doesn't occur in all cases)

• Alopecia, or hair thinning

• Elevated insulin levels, Insulin Resistance, or Diabetes

• Infertility

• Hirutism or excess hair on the face and body (male hair distribution)

• Acne

• Predisposition to weight gain, weight loss resistance or obesity

• Abdominal fat accumulation (central tendency weight distribution)

Treatment for PCOS

Weight Loss and PCOS

Weight loss, through lifestyle change behaviors, has been the major recommendation by physicians for women with PCOS. Lifestyle modifications including stress reduction, exercise, and group support, are recommended along dietary modifications for modest weight loss. A weight decrease of only 5% of total body weight is associated with decreased insulin levels, increased fertility, reduced hirsutism and acne, and lower free testosterone levels (androgens).

Type 2 Diabetes & PCOS

As with all persons, women with PCOS can lower their risk of developing diabetes and heart disease by exercising and eating a healthy diet. However, some women with PCOS have trouble shedding their extra pounds due to the metabolic conditions associated with the condition. Insulin-sensitizing medications have been shown to be effective to overcome weight loss resistance and, at the same time, reduce some of the circulating male hormones.

Lifestyle Change – Behavioral Considerations
in PCOS

Nutritional Considerations in PCOS

Careful food selection is a very important aspect of PCOS care. Some women with PCOS find success by reducing their total intake of carbohydrates (cereals, breads, pastas) and choosing to eat different types of carbohydrates that are less processed (whole wheat, brown rice, beans). Replacing refined carbohydrate products (white bread, white pasta, cakes, cookies) with whole grains, fruits and vegetables may help to reduce insulin response. You should also eat enough protein to help manage blood sugar levels. (source: hormone.org)

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome may benefit from counseling to help with healthy eating choices and regular exercise. This is particularly important for overweight women with PCOS. Obesity makes insulin resistance worse. Weight loss can reduce both insulin and androgen levels, and may restore ovulation.

Fitness Considerations in PCOS

According to many studies, women with PCOS can improve their insulin resistance just with moderate activity. Even if you exercise and don't lose weight, you are still reaping very important health benefits. Exercise has been shown to improve use of insulin and can support dietary interventions to promote weight loss; it is important that the exercise program chosen is enjoyable.

Resources

For resources, please go to the first page of our PCOS, metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance article.

If you have any questions, please contact Alan Wayler, PhD, Green Mountain's executive director, to learn more about our healthy lifestyle program for PCOS.

Call (800) 448-8106 or (802) 228-8885 for international calls.
You can also make online reservations for a stay at Green Mountain.

 

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