Here's what to eat and avoid in your diet

Struggling with PCOS? Moneycontrol News | November 20, 2023 | Images: Canva

Choose complex carbohydrates Opt for complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. These foods have a lower glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential for PCOS management

[{"selector":"#anim-5ab7292e-51ca-4954-9cbf-73a2f905686d","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Do's

Include lean proteins Incorporate lean protein sources like chicken, fish, tofu, legumes, and low-fat dairy products into your meals. Protein helps stabilise blood sugar levels, promotes satiety, and aids in weight management

[{"selector":"#anim-5a5c6d70-7ce3-4517-ab64-df37fedd56f9","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Do's

Emphasise healthy fats Consume foods rich in healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. These fats can help reduce inflammation and promote hormone balance in the body

[{"selector":"#anim-3a2354d5-b040-43c6-94bc-bc230473f449","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Do's

Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables Include a wide range of colourful fruits and vegetables in your diet. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and help combat oxidative stress

[{"selector":"#anim-0febc1ee-fd2e-4324-9834-513d2a79209b","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Do's

Stay hydrated Drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Staying hydrated supports hormone regulation, aids digestion, and helps maintain optimal body functions

[{"selector":"#anim-26b4ff83-6d52-495d-8747-062817412ceb","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Do's

Limit refined carbohydrates and sugars Avoid or minimise the consumption of refined carbohydrates like white bread, white rice, sugary cereals, and desserts. These foods can cause blood sugar spikes and worsen insulin resistance

[{"selector":"#anim-e821f9ff-8fc3-41a8-aef5-ef11729cd2de","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Dont's

Reduce processed and packaged foods Processed and packaged foods often contain added sugars, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives. These can disrupt hormone balance and contribute to weight gain. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible

[{"selector":"#anim-fc51cb09-ca6e-4f9e-b967-93ad957ccb87","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Dont's

Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol as they can affect hormone levels and contribute to inflammation. Opt for herbal teas and non-alcoholic beverages instead

[{"selector":"#anim-41efbd26-2e53-441e-b992-a25b2a88ebbb","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Dont's

Minimise saturated and trans fats Limit the consumption of foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods, fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed snacks. These fats can promote inflammation and increase the risk of heart disease

[{"selector":"#anim-ab8ea6b8-8fdc-4c3c-8ac1-fd23176a1a6d","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Dont's

Be mindful of dairy products While dairy can be included in a PCOS diet, some women may find that it exacerbates their symptoms. If you suspect dairy intolerance or sensitivity, consider alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk, or lactose-free dairy options

[{"selector":"#anim-39efc014-9fc0-4d05-bdfd-b2ef45072d63","keyframes":{"transform":["scale(1)","scale(1.5)","scale(0.95)","scale(1)"],"offset":[0,0.33,0.66,1]},"delay":0,"duration":1450,"easing":"ease-in-out","fill":"both","iterations":1}] The Dont's