Daily Dish: SBD and PCOS

[beachgal]

Very timely, as I think we have a new member with PCOS...

The South Beach Diet and PCOS

What is Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — the leading cause of infertility in women — is a common metabolic disorder in reproductive-age women that is associated with high levels of male hormones, an irregular or non-existent menstrual cycle, and often small cysts in the ovaries. PCOS affects 5 to 10 percent of women of reproductive age — many of whom do not even know they have it. When left untreated, PCOS can have serious and far-reaching consequences. Besides infertility and complications in pregnancy, women who suffer from PCOS are at increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and endometrial cancer, according to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists. Women with this condition also tend to be overweight.

How can The South Beach Diet™ help?

PCOS is a condition that can never be cured, just treated and managed. The South Beach Diet™ focus on lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, can aid many women suffering from PCOS in alleviating some of their symptoms. For instance, according to The National Women's Health Information Center, even a 10 percent weight loss can help to regulate a woman's menstrual cycle. "Though we haven't conducted any formal studies, our experience with several women suffering from PCOS who follow The South Beach Diet™ lifestyle has been a reduction in weight followed by pregnancy," says Dr. Agatston. Following the diet can also help reduce long-term risks associated with PCOS, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

There is also a PCOS forum here at 3FC...check it out!