How to lose weight with PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is caused by an imbalance of hormones produced by the ovaries. It is the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age and is characterised by increased activity of certain hormones. It can lead to conditions such as being overweight, irregular or absent menstrual periods, increased body hair growth, and difficulty getting pregnant. Some individuals with PCOS may also experience no symptoms at all. Help is available if you have symptoms.
Overview
For individuals with PCOS and overweight, it can be frustrating to feel like you're putting in a lot of effort to lose weight but not seeing any results. Many with PCOS get discouraged because it can be challenging to shed pounds. If you're struggling to lose weight due to PCOS-related weight gain, it's likely not related to your willpower.
There is help! Through our medication-based treatment here at Yazen.uk, you gain access to doctors, midwives, dietitians, personal trainers, and psychologists, all of whom will help you lose weight effectively and maintain it.
If you have irregular menstruation and increased body hair growth, these symptoms can be treated with combined oral contraceptives, preferably oestrogen-dominant ones. This regulates your menstrual cycle and reduces the production of androgens (reducing acne and body hair). It also decreases the risk of ovarian cancer or endometrial cancer, which those with PCOS are otherwise 2.7 times more likely to develop.
If you have cysts on your ovaries, hormonal contraceptives also help prevent their formation. The best options in this case are birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, or hormonal intrauterine devices.
PCOS affects 1 in 10 women
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Yazen is among the first British digital service providers focusing on a comprehensive obesity treatment including medication and lifestyle changes.
16%
Average weight loss of 9% per year with medication alone and 16% per year by combining medication with lifestyle changes, according to Yazen's model.
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Did you know that 8/10 dieters regain more weight than they lost during a diet? At Yazen we explore the latest advancements in medical obesity treatment to better address this ongoing challenge.
Common symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
PCOS-test
How do you know if you have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?
Take this test to see if you have symptoms of PCOS that should be evaluated and, if necessary, treated.
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Assessment of PCOS
Treatment
Weight management
For those suffering from PCOS, it can be particularly challenging to maintain weight loss. This is because the increased levels of androgens increase hunger and cravings for fast carbohydrates, which raise the risk of weight gain. In cases of overweight, weight loss is the key focus of PCOS treatment, as it leads to improved hormone balance, reduced inflammation in the body, and a decrease in other symptoms. Weight loss can also increase chances of pregnancy for those with PCOS related symptoms who are trying to get pregnant.
Dietary treatment (in combination with modern medications)
The diet primarily recommended is a healthy, lower-calorie diet. There are various ways to lose weight, but overall, the recommendation is to consume more nutrient-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and berries, legumes, root vegetables, fish and seafood, poultry, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, while reducing the intake of discretionary foods, such as biscuits, candies, snacks, fast food, sugary beverages, and alcohol.
A dietary pattern often advocated as beneficial for PCOS is the Mediterranean diet. Many individuals with PCOS experience increased hunger and appetite, which can be challenging when trying to lose weight. Therefore, it's essential to eat nutrient-dense foods that provide satiety without containing excessive energy.
Since blood sugar regulation is often disrupted in PCOS, it is also crucial to focus on slow-digesting, fiber-rich carbohydrates. A dietitian can assist you in reviewing your diet and provide support during your weight management journey.
Physical activity
Regular physical activity is essential in the treatment of PCOS because it can contribute to weight loss and improved blood sugar control, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. Physical activity can also alleviate the effects of stress, enhance well-being, and make it easier to make healthier food choices. Individuals with PCOS may have advantages when it comes to building muscle and becoming stronger due to the effects of androgens on muscle mass. Increased muscle mass raises energy expenditure and can facilitate weight loss. A personal trainer can help tailor physical activity to your needs.
Treatment with physical activity
A combination of everyday activity (breaking prolonged periods of sitting, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, cycling to work), cardiovascular exercise (brisk walking or cycling, for example), and strength training (with or without additional weights) is recommended.
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