Many women around the world suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which can cause infertility. The condition affects nearly 5 million women who are in their reproductive age in the US. A new study has shown a potential association between the ketogenic diet and fertility among women who suffer from PCOS. The study suggests that a ketogenic diet might be able to reduce the levels of testosterone in women affected by PCOS.
The findings of the study have been released in the journal of the Endocrine Society. The ketogenic diet consists of high-fat and low-carb foods. Considerably reduced carbohydrate consumption keeps the body in a metabolic state known as ketosis.
Ketogenic diet can help manage the levels of blood sugar and insulin
The co-author of the study, Dr. Karniza Khalid says that a ketogenic diet can help manage the levels of blood sugar and insulin. A ketogenic diet results in weight loss and enhanced insulin sensitivity that reduce insulin spikes. It regulates hormonal imbalance and leads to more regular menstrual cycle. A ketogenic diet can also ease symptoms of PCOS such as hirsutism known as excess hair growth and acne. Some women who suffer from PCOS are insulin resistant which might increase their risk of being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
Experts say that higher levels of testosterone can lead to the diagnosis of PCOS. The authors of the study say that increased levels of insulin linked to insulin resistance can prompt the ovaries to produce more testosterone and lead to the development of PCOS. Higher levels of insulin and testosterone can interfere with ovulation and result in irregular or absent menstruation and infertility as well. Around 50 to 90 percent of women with PCOS are insulin-resistant.
Irregular periods or no periods, many small cysts on the ovaries, and elevated levels of male hormones are some common symptoms of PCOS. A low-carb and low-sugar diet can reduce the levels of testosterone, production of insulin, requirement for insulin, and troublesome symptoms of PCOS.
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Adequate consumption of fruits and green vegetables helps manage PCOS and reduce insulin spikes. Regular exercise can help women maintain healthy weight, manage their levels of insulin, and improve PCOS. Physical activity helps regulate the levels of hormones.