Coping With PCOS

Never-say-die Naini Setalvad comes to the aid of young girls distressed by the vexing symptoms of PCOS

- Naini Setalvad

This month, we celebrate International Women’s Day. Although I believe women need to be celebrated every day, this month; let’s bask in the limelight. I’m sure all you intelligent, hardworking women do not want anything pulling you down, especially a hormonal disorder like PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome). This slowly creeping lifestyle disease is wreaking havoc for young girls. Many symptoms manifest with this disorder, but irregular periods are a noteworthy indication of cysts in the ovaries.

Testing reproductive hormones, insulin, and thyroid parameters, and getting an ultrasound is the best way for one to diagnose PCOS. Mood swings, acne, pigmentation, obesity, depression, anxiety, and infertility are additional woes for PCOS sufferers. But do not worry; with regular exercise and simple dietary changes, they can be overcome.

The insulin issue

One of the hallmarks of PCOS is insulin resistance. This blood sugar-controlling hormone is linked to reproductive hormones in our body. Insulin levels rise with the intake of sugar and highly processed carbohydrates that lack fiber. This increase causes a domino effect on hormones, resulting in cyst development in the ovaries. I’m sure you are tired of hearing “Cut the carbohydrates,”, and “Ditch the bread,