PCOD or polycystic ovary disease is a condition that affects women and causes complications with metabolism and hormonal balance. Almost one in ten women have it and managing it is important as it can cause unpredictable hormonal behaviour that can also increase the risk of acne, infertility, diabetes, and excessive hair growth on various parts of the body. The disorder has no exact cure but several women afflicted by it abide by the tremendous impact dietary and lifestyle changes have made in managing and even curing their PCOD.
If you have PCOD and wish to manage it better by way of changing your dietary habits, read on.
Stave off red meat
Studies have found that eating a lot of red meat can put women at risk of infertility, so it’s best to limit or avoid it. Keep away from processed meats like salami, sausages, bacon, burger patties, mutton, and pork.
Eat as many veggies
Green and leafy vegetables such as broccoli and lettuce, and fruit such as berries are full of nutrients and antioxidants. Plant based protein can be found in legumes, dried beans, and lentils, so make sure to have these daily.
Avoid saturated and hydrogenated fats
Saturated fats are found mostly in animal and dairy-based products, these fats may raise your cholesterol and calories. Baked goods are laden with these fats and should be had in limit.
Avoid sugar and refined carbs
PCOD patients should avoid white bread and biscuits as they are full of refined carbohydrates and should also avoid heavy calories in the form of aerated, sugary beverages like sodas and energy drinks.
Try a diet for diabetics
Women with PCOD are insulin resistant and following a diabetic diet; rich in fibre and low in carbs and processed foods, can be a huge boost. Go for foods with made from whole wheat like wheat flour, wheat pasta, whole grains, brown rice, and poha.
Eat small eat regularly
PCOD patients can have water retention and the best way to tackle that is having enough water and eating small portions in 6 or 7 frequent meals a day.
Seeds are good
Flaxseeds and sesame seeds have done wonders for PCOD patients and it is always a good idea to have some at hand. However, remember to consume them in moderation.
