Obesity & Metabolic Expert (SCOPE CERTIFIED) Lifestyle Consultant
For years most women at some point have to contend with weight gain. Losing weight can become a constant struggle for women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, majorly known as PCOS.
The most common hormonal disorder in women of childbearing age is PCOS which leads to infertility. The male hormones are higher in women who have PCOS which causes insulin resistance.
Being overweight or obese is very common in PCOS women as a result, these women are at a higher risk of diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, and uterine cancer. If you suffer from PCOS, a few changes in your style of life can help you shed pounds and reduce the severity of the disease.
Using insulin hormones is much more difficult for people with PCOS than ordinary people. Insulin hormone helps convert sugars and starches from foods and generate energy. Not being able to produce energy from sugar and starch is called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance causes glucose to build up in our bloodstream.
Due to high insulin levels, our body produces more androgens, a male hormone. High androgen levels in your body lead to body hair growth, acne, irregular periods and weight gain. Weight gain triggered by male hormones is generally visible in the abdomen area, which is where men tend to carry weight. Women with PCOS have more of an apple shape rather than of a pear shape. Fat in the abdominal area is the most dangerous fat of all fats, as it is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and other health conditions.
Whatever the cause may be of your weight gain. Weight gain is detrimental to your health. PCOS women are more prone to develop issues associated with weight gain and insulin resistance, such as
These conditions can lead to many heart diseases. According to experts, PCOS symptoms are triggered due to weight gain.
Losing excess weight not only reduces the risk of many diseases. It also makes you feel more confident. Losing just 10% of your weight can get your periods back to normal and relieve some of the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome. Moreover, it can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other PCOS complications.
Consult your doctor to lose weight. Your healthcare provider will weigh you and check your waist size and body mass index or BMI. Accordingly, he may prescribe medication. Usually, birth control pills, anti-androgen medications and Metformin (Glucophage) are prescribed for PCOS. The anti-androgen medications are used to block the effects of male hormones. Metformin is a diabetes drug used to help the body use insulin more efficiently and reduce testosterone production.
Along with medication, a change in daily habits to healthy habits can help you keep your weight under control:
Dr. Kalpana Jain has worked in this domain for more than ten years. Her commitment and diligence motivate her patients to live healthy lives.