This article has been reviewed by dietitian & nutritionist Silky Mahajan
PCOS is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and a common hormonal disorder affecting many women worldwide. It can cause wide range of symptoms, including irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and even fertility issues.
Although there is no magic cure for PCOS, one can adopt a healthy lifestyle and incorporate certain vitamins into their diet to manage PCOS symptoms effectively.
Thus, in this blog, we shall explore the top 5 vitamins you need to manage PCOS effectively and their advantages.
What is PCOS?
PCOS is a type of hormonal problem in females during their reproductive years. People with PCOS don’t have periods often, or they have periods that last longer than the regular time frame. PCOS-affected individuals also have too much of the hormone androgen present in their body.
The exact reason for PCOS is unclear. However, spotting it early and getting treatment, along with losing body weight and eating a healthy diet, can reduce the chances of future problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Now, let’s look at the top 5 key vitamins for managing PCOS.
Top 5 Key Vitamins for Managing PCOS
The first step in dealing with PCOS always involves making significant alterations to your lifestyle and diet. And studies have found that some vitamins and supplements can assist people with PCOS in handling the condition. Thus, let’s look at 5 key vitamins you can take to manage PCOS.
- Vitamin D
Vitamin D is often termed as the “sunshine vitamin.” This is because our bodies produce it when exposed to sunlight. However, many individuals with PCOS have lower levels of vitamin D. This deficiency can contribute to insulin resistance and exacerbate PCOS symptoms. By ensuring you have sufficient vitamin D, you can improve insulin sensitivity, regulate menstrual cycles, and even enhance mood.
- Vitamin B
The B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B3 (niacin), B2 (riboflavin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B7 (biotin), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin), play a crucial role in metabolism and energy production. For women with PCOS, these vitamins can be particularly beneficial as they help regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential in managing insulin resistance.
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an excellent antioxidant. Thus, it helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are common in PCOS. It improves blood vessel function and reduces blood pressure, which is often elevated in women with this condition.
- Vitamin E
Another powerful antioxidant is Vitamin E which can help women with PCOS maintain hormonal balance. It might make your body respond better to insulin and lower inflammation, which could help with PCOS symptoms.
- Inositol
Inositol, also known as vitamin B8, is not as well-known as some other vitamins, but it can be highly advantageous for women with PCOS. Inositol helps improve insulin sensitivity and regulate menstrual cycles. It has been shown to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes in women with PCOS who are pregnant.
Final thoughts
Managing PCOD can be challenging, but following a PCOD diet chart that incorporates specific vitamins can be beneficial. These vitamins help in enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting overall well-being, offering an effective approach to manage PCOS.
However, it’s essential to consult a professional dietitian or nutrition expert to ensure a healthier and happier life
