Five Food That Triggers PCOS

PCOS is a significant public health problem and is one of the commonest hormonal disturbances affecting women of reproductive age. An estimated one in five (20%) Indian women suffer from PCOS.

- Rupal Shah Visiting Faculty, Lifeness Science Institute

As per WHO, up to 70% of cases are undiagnosed. PCOS can also cause anovulation and is a leading cause of infertility. While there is no cure for PCOS, there are a number of treatments available that can help in improving individual symptoms. Lifestyle and dietary modification with main focus on eating a balanced diet, exercise and losing excess fat can help with improving PCOS symptoms. However, eating in a way that supports PCOS and doesn't trigger PCOS symptoms comes with several challenges. Let's dive into what those foods are and how you can stay away from them.

Here are five foods that trigger PCOS symptoms

1) Refined foods: Refined foods are devoid of fiber and nutrients. This can lead to insulin resistance, fat gain and increased inflammation, a common factor in PCOS. Maida, sabudana, semolina (sooji), chips, wafers, cookies, biscuits, breads, toast, pav, pasta, noodles, muffins, cakes are just a few examples of refined foods. Alternative to this is to opt for lentil/ beans based pasta/ noodles, choosing fresh fruits and nuts as snacks over chips and cookies, celebrating special occasions by indulging in some form of sports/hobby/spa or arranging potluck dinner with healthy options.