Eat Right

Eat right diet to fight Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD), says Sumaira Fatima, Dietician & Diabetic Educator, IMC Sugar Apollo

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Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a hormonal problem characterised by the formation of cysts in the ovaries in women during their reproductive age with increasing incidence of ovulation problems. Individuals with PCOD are at higher risk of developing diabetes, obesity, heart disease in future.

SIGNS OF PCOD

• Absent or irregular periods : Irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles are of the most common feature of polycystic ovarian disease.

• Excess hair growth (hirsutism): Elevated levels of male hormones causes male pattern of hair growth on face, chest and lower abdomen.

• Acne: High levels of androgen triggers acne on face.

• Weight gain: There is persistent weight gain due to insulin resistance and cells are resistant to insulin, which in turn causes hormonal imbalance.

HOW DIET INFLUENCES PCOD

Diet plays a major role in managing polycystic ovarian disease along with right treatment. A low carbohydrate diet with low glycemic index foods helps in reduction of insulin levels, improves resistance and helps in weight loss.