How to Ease PCOS Symptoms Through Your Diet

When did you last check in with yourself and your PCOS symptoms? A special diet can change your body by decreasing inflammation, eliminating joint pain and improving your mental health. You just need to know what to avoid and how to gravitate to more natural, delicious foods.

How PCOS Can Affect Your Body

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects people differently, but inflammation is one of this endocrine condition’s most common side effects. It’s typically associated with abnormal hair growth or cysts on the ovaries, but the inflammation can be just as painful and detrimental. PCOS affects around 10% of the childbearing-age population, making it more prevalent than many might think — and also dangerous in the long run if you don’t fight some of the symptoms. 

You should ease inflammation symptoms as much as possible. Long-term inflammation can lead to several diseases and disorders, including those affecting the following:

• Heart and blood pressure
• Immune system
• Lungs
• Mental health

Luckily, inflammation is one of the easiest symptoms to treat naturally by changing your diet. For example, you can start eating smaller meals more frequently rather than consuming a lot of food all at once. Alternatively, you might opt for no processed foods, which can increase your inflammation. A PCOS diet can help you stick to wholesome items that nourish you while reducing pain and swelling.

Best Foods to Add to a PCOS Diet

A PCOS diet is not a fad diet — which you should avoid at all costs when trying to lower your inflammation. Making gradual changes is the best way to achieve your health goals. Going “all or nothing” can only damage your body in the long run. Making slow, sustainable swaps is the best way to ensure your inflammation decreases healthily.

1. Leafy Greens

It’s always a good idea to add these dietary staples to your plate, regardless of your health goals. Leafy greens entail foods like spinach and kale, often known as superfoods, that give you plenty of vitamins and minerals. People who eat enough leafy greens may see a reduced risk of heart disease and potentially retain memory as they age. These foods can decrease inflammation throughout the body and help ensure you live a long, healthy life. Make them a regular part of your diet and see if you feel a difference.

2. Whole Grains

Look for whole grains. They’re excellent sources of fiber, which can help your digestive system and ensure you avoid spikes in blood sugar, since many people with PCOS have trouble regulating insulin. They’re healthier options overall. When choosing between whole grain or white bread, opt for the former — it’s better for your health.

3. Fatty Fish

Eating enough fatty fish is linked to improved cardiovascular health. You may have seen fish oil pills before — they help lubricate your joints and could improve your mental health. If supplements aren’t your thing, you can still get plenty of omega-3 fatty acids by eating seafood. Consuming enough fish can decrease your joint pain and lessen your risk of conditions like stroke or heart attack, making it a staple you should add to your diet as soon as possible.

4. Plentiful Fruits

Instead of relying on a sugary dessert to finish your biggest meal of the day, consider eating fruit instead. It’s a great way to get natural sugar in your diet. Many are excellent fiber sources, which makes you feel full until your next meal. Fruit can be a great substitute for meat if you’re cutting back on beef or pork. Jackfruit, watermelon and pineapple are great options. Pineapple has 10% of your daily fiber recommendation, benefitting your gut microbiome. 

5. Water

Cut back on sugary drinks by switching to all-natural water. Soda can add to inflammation or increase sodium levels, but water can help flush you out. It can also cushion your joints, making movement easier when inflammatory disorders are challenging. While the taste of plain water might be off-putting to you at first, particularly if you’re used to juices or soft drinks, you should remind yourself of the benefits of drinking water — then maybe add a flavor packet or two.

Additionally, you can choose a superfood smoothie to give you the natural help you need. Plenty of ingredients can be blended to create delicious drinks that provide you with the flavor water can’t. A delectable mixed berry smoothie includes antioxidants like anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and anti-viral properties.

A PCOS Diet Eases Symptoms

You should see an improvement in your health after committing to a healthy diet. Eating a new food might not be a cure-all, but a PCOS diet can ease some symptoms while boosting your immune system, heart, brain and more. Adjust your diet a little at a time and be sure to commit to them. You’ll notice a difference in no time.