05/04/2025                                                                            
                                    
                                                                            
                                            I had a fair few people message me in response to my last post about post OCP use PCOS 
Here are my general recommendations for PCOS / hormonal balance:
Supplements & Nutrients for PCOS
1.  Inositol (Myo-Inositol + D-Chiro-Inositol)
How it helps: Improves insulin sensitivity, reduces androgens, regulates menstrual cycles, and supports ovulation.
2.  N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
How it helps: Antioxidant, improves insulin resistance, promotes ovulation, lowers testosterone.
3.  Vitamin D
How it helps: Regulates insulin sensitivity and may improve ovulatory function and mood.
4.  Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA/DHA)
How it helps: Reduces inflammation, improves lipid profile, may reduce testosterone levels and improve menstrual regularity.
5.  Magnesium
How it helps: Supports insulin sensitivity, stress response, and energy production.
6.  Zinc
How it helps: Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, improves acne and hirsutism, supports ovulation.
🍽️ Dietary Changes for PCOS 
🍓Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet
How it helps: Reduces insulin resistance and androgen production.
Evidence: GI-based diets improve menstrual cyclicity and ovulation.
Focus on: Non-starchy vegetables, legumes, whole grains (quinoa, brown rice), and low-sugar fruits (berries).
🥑Anti-Inflammatory Diet
How it helps: Lowers systemic inflammation which is elevated in PCOS.
Evidence: Anti-inflammatory foods improve insulin and lipid profiles in PCOS women.
Include: Olive oil, avocados, fatty fish (if tolerated), nuts/seeds, leafy greens, and berries.
🥚 Adequate Protein + Healthy Fats
How it helps: Supports blood sugar control, satiety, and hormonal production.
Good sources: Eggs, tofu, tempeh, lean meats (if eaten), legumes, avocado, olive oil, coconut oil, flax/chia.
❌ Reduce Added Sugars & Refined Carbs
How it helps: Prevents blood sugar spikes, improves insulin sensitivity.
Limit: White bread, sugary drinks, pastries, white rice, etc.
🥩 Balanced Meals (Protein + Fat + Fiber)
How it helps: Keeps blood glucose stable and reduces insulin demand.
Example: A quinoa bowl with tofu, roasted veggies, and avocado.