Losing weight is a struggle for so many of us. But more so for women with PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age which can impact their fertility.
Apart from fertility issues, they also have a higher risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.
However, losing just about 5 to 10% of their weight can significantly improve their symptoms, fertility, and quality of life. That’s why doctors generally ask women with PCOS to shed some kilos. But it’s easier said than done.
If you have symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, sudden weight gain, mainly around the waist, and irregular periods, you should get yourself checked by your doctor.
For comprehensive and effective PCOS treatment in Mumbai, you can visit Babies & Us Fertility, one of the best IVF center in Mumbai.
The center has etched a name for itself for providing responsive, advanced treatments exclusively tailored to your needs and requirements. They have a formidable team of some of the best PCOS doctor in Mumbai known for their exceptional expertise and knowledge in reproductive medicines.
In this article, we have discussed,
Insulin carries glucose from your bloodstream to your cells, which is used as energy. But PCOS hampers the secretion and use of insulin. The cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin, thereby making the pancreas secrete more insulin. This is called insulin resistance.
Excess insulin causes fat storage and weight gain. As many women with PCOS are insulin resistant, they have high insulin levels, which leads to weight gain.
Unfortunately, people with slow metabolism gain more weight than those with a faster metabolism. The basal metabolic rate (BMR) is the calorie requirement for your body to function at rest.
The average BMR of women with PCOS, especially those with insulin resistance, is just 1,116 calories, compared to 1,868 calories for women without PCOS. It means women with PCOS burn fewer calories.
Insulin stimulates appetite that helps the body store fat. However, insulin resistance causes people to experience frequent, intense, and urgent food cravings. That’s why some women with PCOS are extra hungry due to high insulin levels.
If not appropriately addressed, cravings can derail even the healthiest eating habits, resulting in increased calorie consumption and weight gain.
Hormones that control appetite suppression and satiety are impaired in people suffering from PCOS. According to research, women with PCOS do not feel full after meals. This makes them feel hungry even though they have consumed their daily calorie requirement.
Binge-eating, obesity, and other eating disorders are common in PCOS patients.
There is a higher risk of obstructive sleep apnea in PCOS patients. This condition occurs when the upper airway is blocked, resulting in a shortage of oxygen while sleeping. This causes high blood pressure, sleepiness during the day, and weight gain.
Apart from obesity, high androgen levels contribute to sleep apnea. Further, sleep deprivation is linked to weight gain and insulin resistance. If you have issues or questions regarding your inability to lose weight easily, schedule an appointment at Babies & Us Fertility for effective and affordable PCOS treatment in Mumbai.
Below are a few helpful tips that will help you lose weight with PCOS.
Women with PCOS should have a low-glycemic diet as it helps in reducing insulin levels, thereby aiding weight loss.
Increased protein consumption may help women with PCOS lose weight. Nuts, eggs, and shellfish are all excellent sources of protein.
A high-fiber diet helps you feel satiated for a longer time and decreases body fat, insulin resistance, and excess belly fat in PCOS patients.
Women with PCOS have fewer healthy gut bacteria that help metabolism and weight loss. Increasing their intake of high probiotic foods or supplements can increase the number of healthy gut bacteria and help with weight loss.
According to research, eating more fat leads to less hunger and more fat loss. PCOS patients may benefit from having more healthy fats such as olive oil, avocado, coconut oil, and nuts in their diet.
Processed foods like refined carbohydrates and added sugars raise blood sugar levels, resulting in weight gain. So, make a conscious effort to cut down on such foods.
Calorie reduction for an extended period might slow your metabolism and lead to weight gain. Instead of eating less, try eating a diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods to lose weight.
Chronic stress increases cortisol levels leading to insulin resistance and belly fat. Outdoor activities, meditation, and yoga help reduce stress and lower cortisol levels.
Regular exercise such as weight-training and cardio help women with PCOS reduce body fat and improve insulin resistance.
There is an undeniable link between lack of sleep and obesity. Catching up on your beauty sleep for 7 to 8 hours promotes weight loss and lower body fat.
Losing weight for PCOS patients may be challenging but not impossible. With lifestyle changes, stress management, regular exercise, and healthy living, you can overcome your weight issue and improve your PCOS symptoms.
If you need assistance in managing your condition, you can take help from some of the best PCOS doctor in Mumbai. At Babies & Us Fertility Center, we have a highly qualified and passionate team of specialists excelling in result-oriented PCOS treatment and management.