Losing weight can be hard. For some people, it can be more troubling than others. Especially if you are suffering from hormonal problems such as PCOC (polycystic ovary syndrome) or thyroid disease. These hormonal troubles can make it difficult for you to lose weight.
No matter how many weights loss tips or tricks you stick to or what diet plan you are following, PCOS can make your weight loss progress slow or sometimes super slow. I remember one of my friends who was diagnosed with PCOS in her 20s and suffered from fertility troubles. She faced trouble getting pregnant and then she went to the best gynecologist in Lahore who assisted her.
Before we talk about weight loss with PCOS, here is all you need to understand about PCOS.
PCOS and Weight Loss
PCOS or polycystic ovary syndrome is a gynecological problem that affects the fertility potential of a female. PCOS is generally characterized by:
- Hormonal imbalance in your body
- Disturbance with your menstrual cycle
- Increased level of male sex hormones in your body.
Losing weight with PCOS becomes more important as a 5-10% reduction of your body weight is known to help you manage your PCOS symptoms effectively.
When it comes to PCOS, weight loss even becomes more important. This is because the less body weight you carry, it reduces inflammation in your body and decreases insulin resistance. In all these ways, weight loss can benefit PCOS sufferers especially if they are trying to get pregnant with PCOS.
How to Lose Weight with PCOS?
Here are tips that can help people to lose weight with PCOS.
1- Be Carb Wise
Carbs are the sugars we derive energy from. Carbs are the primary source of energy in your body and the type of carbs you choose affects your overall health. Processed carbs can be bad for you. Poor carb selection can result in increased insulin resistance in your body. Insulin resistance is primarily responsible for the complications associated with PCOS. Go for simple carbs that require relatively more time for processing in your body and don’t spike your insulin levels.
2- Consume a Fibre Rich Diet
Fibre is an important food component that we consume in our everyday diet. Fibre plays many important roles in your health. Not only does it help you to manage your heart health and keep your digestive system stronger, but it is also good for your PCOS body. With enough fibre in your diet, you are less likely to worry about insulin resistance. Try to consume more and more fibre rich foods.
3- Consume Enough Protein
Protein, just like carbs and fibre, is an important component of your diet. From animal protein to plant protein, all these protein sources are there. Protein generally helps to build stronger muscles. However, other than this protein consumption is good for your weight loss. Protein can help you to boost your metabolism which paves the ground for weight loss.
4- Keep Your Gut Healthy
Your gut health is also important when it comes to losing weight with PCOS. Gut health is dependent upon the presence of gut-healthy bacteria in your body. Women who have low levels of these gut-healthy bacteria are more likely to suffer from poor digestive health, slow metabolism and slow-paced weight loss. To support your gut health, you need to consume more fermented food such as yoghurt etc. Natural probiotics can help to increase your weight loss progress.
5- Eat Healthy Fats
Fats are generally considered bad for your health. However, the fats you obtain from natural sources are generally good for your overall health especially when you are trying to lose weight. Healthy fats can be obtained from a variety of dietary sources. When it comes to the consumption of healthy fats, make sure to choose the right kinds of fats that help to boost your overall weight loss progress.
6- Do Mindful Eating
Other than dietary choices, your other habits also determine your ability to lose with PCOS. You can practice mindful eating if you are struggling to lose weight with PCOS. This increases the chances of suffering from an eating disorder which is one common complication associated with PCOS patients. A mindful eating approach is beneficial for PCOS patients for both physical and psychological reasons.
7- Workout
Any healthy weight loss requires a proper workout. For this very reason, the workout should be an important part of your everyday routine especially if you are trying to lose weight with PCOS. No matter if it’s simple walking, running or any other type of physical activity, don’t just think of skipping it.
Bottom Line!
PCOS is a gynecological condition that can be managed well with PCOS. If you are struggling to lose weight with PCOS, make sure to follow all these tips really well. Further, you also need to consult your gynecologist to get the right medical advice regarding your condition management. This becomes even more important for patients who are struggling to conceive with PCOS. So, let’s take charge of your health and work towards a healthy tomorrow!