These interventions are more likely to drive weight loss than inositol alone. Many women will undertake diet and lifestyle changes when supplementing with inositol. Any meaningful weight loss achieved after taking inositol supplements is likely to be the result of other factors. How do you explain all the inositol PCOS weight loss success stories out there? Myo-inositol may cause weight loss, but the strength of the effect is small. PCOS has a direct relationship with ovarian function and metabolic disorders, along with insulin resistance and hormonal problems. Our comments section is a place where readers can engage in healthy, productive, lively, and respectful discussions. Improving insulin sensitivity can make it easier to lose weight, especially around your midsection. Some of the best low-glycemic foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, whole grains, low-fat dairy and nuts. Those bonuses can make your diet and exercise plans way more effective! Inositol is a form of sugar that provides cell structure and support. It is the most researched supplement for women with PCOS. Treatment options can vary because someone with PCOS may experience a range of symptoms, or just 1. The net is weighted to keep it below the surface of the water. It is up to the jury to determine how much weight or consideration to give that evidence. With each breath, give your weight more and more to the ground. The dressmaker put small weight in the hem of the dress. Also known as "flexible dieting," it turns old-school, calorie-based dieting on its head by focusing instead on the amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats making up those calories. This can lead to a reduction in overall calorie intake, making it easier to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Plus, the added protein can help boost your metabolism, making it easier to burn calories and achieve your weight loss goals. Importance of a specialized Indian diet chart for PCOS Healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, can lower inflammation levels. Studies show that protein can actually decrease ghrelin, our hunger hormone; while increasing peptide YY, a hormone that reduces appetite (5, 6). Most people aren’t getting enough fiber in their diet, and women with PCOS are no exception. Intensive weight management programmes (IWMP) and Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are two effective intensive weight management strategies delivered in specialist weight management clinics. There is also significant heterogeneity in the interventions offered by healthcare professionals. Women from ethnic minority backgrounds, where PCOS is more common, experience type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) at a lower BMI due to excess abdominal fat 13, 14. It can be really difficult to lose weight with PCOS. Get 1-to-1 support from a health coach and chat with our nutrition experts anytime via the Oviva app. With learning content on nutrition, exercise, and motivation, you’ll become a weight-loss expert yourself. Our team of experts can offer personalised care and help you understand how to lose weight for PCOS improvement. Super Foods Women Can Benefit From Lastly, STEP 5 demonstrated the durability of weight loss with semaglutide, maintaining a 12.6% point reduction over placebo at two years .It also reduces inflammation and improves gut health, both of which impact metabolism!PCOS weight gain is caused by hormonal imbalances.Not only does daily exercise burn more calories, but it also improves insulin sensitivity (e.g. the body’s ability to metabolize sugar) which is key to maintaining stable blood sugar levels.Gaining excess weight can cause the symptoms of PCOS to get worse.Over time, inositol therapy results in better hormone balance for all types of PCOS 5, 6, 14.PCOS weight loss is best achieved using these 15 steps. A higher protein consumption may accelerate weight loss, particularly for PCOS-affected women. Although it is more prevalent among obese women, the research confirmed that insulin resistance seems to have an independent relationship to PCOS and is not wholly caused by obesity. This often leads to more severe symptoms, difficulty maintaining a healthy weight and heightened risks of developing other chronic conditions. Although the exact cause of PCOS is unknown, insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia seem to affect many women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. With low levels of dopamine and serotonin, for example, you may feel depressed or overly aggressive.The Intuitive Eating Module included in my Beat PCOS 10 Week Program is especially popular for women that want to lose weight.These interventions include lifestyle advice (dietary changes and exercise) behavioural treatment, insulin sensitisers such as metformin, anti-obesity medications, anti-androgens, and bariatric surgery.Similarly, because the physiological effects of vitamin D act simultaneously or in cooperation with progesterone, vitamin D is considered to be a steroid hormone with progesterone-like activity .After some time, you have high blood pressure and high insulin.Researchers found that women with higher markers of stress in their saliva had higher weight and waist size.The first controlled trial of inositols for PCOS was published in 1999 . For many hormones, having even slightly too much or too little of them can cause major changes to your body and lead to certain conditions that require treatment. Scientists have identified over 50 hormones in the human body so far. Hormones are chemicals that coordinate different functions in your body by carrying messages through your blood to your organs, skin, muscles and other tissues. A hormonal imbalance happens when you have too much or too little of one or more hormones — your body’s chemical messengers. Different types of drugs may be taken along with the PCOS diet by women who hope to get pregnant in the future.Good cholesterol helps your body produce the right hormones.Unlike many diet foods, you can afford to eat them and eat them a lot.It’s a common PCOS symptom due to high insulin levels and hormonal imbalances.For more info on how to actually put diet changes into practice, check out A Dietitian’s 7 Day PCOS Diet Plan (PDF Included).Obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome. It’s naturally found in certain foods, such as beef, organ meats, broccoli, spinach, potatoes, and tomatoes. For short term use, most research studies used 500 to 1500 mg daily. Therefore, it’s generally not my first recommendation if fertility is your goal. Additionally, more research is needed but berberine may beneficially impact gut health. Recently, it’s gained even more popularity with people on social media referring to it as “nature’s Ozempic”. Women with PCOS show significantly higher oxidative stress and homocysteine plasma levels. Metformin and to some extent thiazolidinediones have been considered the drugs of choice for management of PCOS in women desiring motherhood. A hormone-based approach has traditionally used metformin or oral contraceptives, personalizing according to specific needs and clinical situations. In this review, four natural molecules, curcumin, vitamin D, inositol and CoQ10 are discussed for their therapeutic ability. Thus, alternative treatment options are now being studied for PCOS, including different natural molecules and complementary medicines (CM) for the improvement of their health, wellbeing and fertility. Thinning hair on her head is one of the symptoms she is self-conscious about, and she addressed it by allowing cameras into the salon when she needed her weave replaced. She experienced a 100-pound weight gain, significant hair loss, and facial hair growth. It happens when the ovaries produce an abnormal amount of male sex hormones called androgens, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine. What some fans might not know is that Whitney has a health condition affecting nearly all areas of her life. LOS ANGELES, Jan. 26, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- At a time when millions of people are turning to GLP-1 medications and weight-loss apps without truly understanding how food impacts their bodies, the new Caloria app is entering the market with a fundamentally different approach. Mint tea cannot spot-reduce belly fat. Yes, drinking 1–2 cups of mint tea daily is generally safe and may support your weight goals by improving digestion and reducing cravings. While it contains no calories or stimulants like caffeine, its natural compounds may influence weight-related processes in subtle but meaningful ways. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting supplementation to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs. A PCOS diet is high in vitamins and nutrients, but you may still want to take a supplement to further increase your intake. Don’t focus on the numbers on the scale; make improving your health the overall goal. You feel disheartened and wonder if it was all a waste of effort, and pretty soon, you’re reaching for your favorite comfort foods again. Be sure to incorporate cardio and strength training into your routine, alternating days between walking, running, or kickboxing with lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises. You already know that protein and fat are essential for satiety, so be sure you enjoy a little bit of both with every meal and snack. At the same time you want to avoid added sugars you’ll find in many packaged foods, pre-made smoothies and meal replacement shakes. These better-for-you carbs take longer to digest because of their high-fiber content, helping to stabilize your blood sugar and keep you fuller longer. “The best approach is a low-glycemic diet to stabilize insulin.” These habits are essential for long-term weight loss, as they help users maintain a healthy lifestyle even after they stop using the service. By providing portion-controlled meals and healthy recipes, HelloFresh can help you make better food choices, which is a crucial aspect of any weight loss journey. Drinking mint tea increases fluid intake without adding sugar or calories, helping maintain metabolism and prevent dehydration-related fatigue during weight loss efforts. High blood insulin levels trigger fat formation, especially in the abdominal region. And according to a study published in the World Journal of Diabetes, up to 80 percent of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, a condition in which cells don’t respond properly to the hormone insulin. 24Raffone, E., P. Rizzo, and V. Benedetto, Insulin sensitiser agents alone and in co-treatment with r-FSH for ovulation induction in PCOS women.How these lifestyle changes may help restore insulin sensitivityAdditionally, 21% of the intervention participants lost more than 15% of their body weight, markedly higher than the 1% in the control group.Weight management can be one of the most difficult PCOS symptoms to manage.Without long-term and more complete data, and a better understanding of the complexity of body weight regulation, the data outlined above remain interesting observations.Only studies that matched and/or adjusted for age and BMI and measured circulating CRP, TNF, IL-6 and/or testosterone were included.The ketogenic diet (KD) has shown beneficial effects on both reproductive and metabolic outcomes.When your body properly digests food, the food will less likely increase your weight, which ultimately leads to issues. Don’t mix carbs and proteins Your health coach will help you set the right personal goals that bring you closer to your feel-good weight. Oviva is an NHS-approved weight management programme that provides access to specialist support and prescription weight loss medication. With consistency and patience, weight loss and long-term management are possible. While NHS guidelines often reference a target of 1 to 2 lbs (0.5 to 1 kg) per week, weight loss with PCOS may be slower. If you’re living with PCOS, losing weight may take longer than for people who do not have hormonal imbalances, but it’s still possible. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition affecting a woman's hormone levels, where the woman's ovaries can produce an abnormal amount of androgens. 30Zacchè, M.M., et al., Efficacy of myo-inositol in the treatment of cutaneous disorders in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Dunaif, Should all women with PCOS be treated for insulin resistance? 5Iuorno, M.J., et al., Effects of d-chiro-inositol in lean women with the polycystic ovary syndrome. 2Baillargeon, J.P., et al., Altered D-chiro-inositol urinary clearance in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. That usually means trying to lower inflammation, balance blood sugar levels to reduce insulin resistance, and reduce stress. While it alone won’t lead to significant weight loss, it can amplify the results of a healthy diet and exercise plan. The potential benefits of Mounjaro for women with PCOS extend beyond just weight loss and blood sugar control. Metformin is often used to treat type 2 diabetes, but it can also lower insulin and blood sugar levels in women with PCOS. This prevents large blood sugar spikes and keeps your insulin levels more stable. We only share no nonsense, expert-recommended & science-backed info that'll help you transform your health. Remember, effective PCOS management goes beyond dietary changes alone. Here’s a customized Indian diet plan that'll show you exactly how to turn these guidelines into delicious, everyday meals. List of foods to avoid, including refined foods, fried foods, and red meat Our younger members reveal the life-changing benefits of weight loss – beyond the scales Thyroid dysfunction affects women with PCOS at roughly three times the rate found in non-PCOS populations. Physical activity is also a powerful way to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms . Resistance training, by comparison, improves hormone regulation . Top of the list for women with PCOS are berberine and magnesium . Another possible mechanism is through elimination of insulin resistance, which is strongly implicated in chronic inflammation .This triggers more insulin production, which can worsen insulin resistance over time.Blood glucose levels depend on many circumstances that change from day to day.These habits are essential for long-term weight loss, as they help users maintain a healthy lifestyle even after they stop using the service.Weight-gain and obesity in women with PCOS, through its effects on insulin resistance, thereby drive enhanced steroidogenesis and hyperandrogenism.To get enough protein, we recommend eating these at most meals and snacks.Bariatric surgery is especially promising for decreasing weight in adults and youth, and reversing type 2 diabetes in youth, though PCOS data are lacking. Long-term calorie restriction can actually slow down your metabolism over time and modify the way your hormones operate, which is why you should never go below 1,200 calories per day in your effort to drop weight. 'If you overly restrict your calories or eliminate food groups, the body's very refined internal messaging and biofeedback is going to secrete ghrelin, otherwise known as the hunger hormone,' says Vitti. It is a simple way to practice portion control and avoid overeating, which helps with weight loss. Making efforts to add more healthy bacteria to your system could help. Plus, complex, high-fibre carbs won’t raise your blood sugar (and lead to more food cravings) the same way simple, sugary carbs do. This diet should include plenty of fibre and lean protein. Having PCOS can sometimes lead to comfort eating, poor dietary choices and weight gain. The symptoms of PCOS can have a negative impact on the mental health of sufferers. People with PCOS may have elevated androgen levels, including testosterone, which is also linked to weight gain. It’s a common PCOS symptom due to high insulin levels and hormonal imbalances. Get access to exercises, meal plans and recipes designed for PCOS weight loss. However, like any prescription, weight loss medications like Wegovy aren’t a treatment for PCOS. Participants in the lower-carbohydrate and Mediterranean groups saw significant improvements in markers of insulin resistance after 24 months. Still, there’s uncertainty on whether PCOS is causing insulin resistance or vice-versa. It also leads to hormonal imbalances that can negatively affect women living with PCOS and may impact cholesterol balance in the body. It can affect how the ovaries work and cause symptoms and complications such as irregular periods and disrupted menstrual cycle, pain, weight gain, excessive hair growth, ovarian cysts, ovulation issues, and infertility. Is Frying Eggs Healthy? Oils, Tips, and Nutritional Facts Women with PCOS face unique metabolic challenges, including heightened insulin resistance, compounded by obesity. While there is limited data specifically targeting PCOS, emerging studies suggest GLP-1 RAs can improve weight, insulin sensitivity, and menstrual regularity in this group. Certain supplements, such as inositol may help improve insulin sensitivity and support weight management in PCOS. In this way, overproduction of male hormones leads to hair growth in areas such as the face, chest, abdominal area, and back. Even small increases in weight may exacerbate hormonal imbalances. If these symptoms are overlooked, they have a serious, detrimental effect on one’s mental well-being and self-esteem. Every meal includes protein, smart carbohydrates, healthy fats, and plenty of vegetables.The STANDby trial sought to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured weight management program, specifically designed for South Asians with T2D, through a TDR phase followed by food reintroduction.You can find more diet tips on my blog and hear even more about them on my podcast as well.I’ve posted about the benefits of strength training on weight loss, metabolism and overall health here.It is not intended to substitute for or replace medical advice for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or any other medical condition.Current interventions recommended for women with PCOS are not effective in reducing metabolic morbidity in this group.The extra fiber makes a real difference in how your body responds. One study found it to be as effective as metformin in improving insulin resistance, lowering testosterone, and reducing BMI in women with PCOS. You don’t have to go it alone; the right support system and supplements may help your body’s natural metabolism and make weight loss more achievable. Discover the best PCOS supplements for weight loss, including inositol, NAC, and more. Anything that triggers inflammation or contributes to insulin resistance is going to give you problems high blood sugar levels, intense cravings, excess belly fat, fatigue, and more. The sudden peaks and valleys of blood sugar levels aren’t great for hormone balance or insulin resistance either. Our own group demonstrated significant improvements in dietary-induced weight-loss and healthy eating-related behaviours among obese patients attending group sessions in the context of a UK-based tier 3 obesity service.115 It is reasonable to hypothesize application of mindfulness techniques to other aspects of lifestyle change including physical activity to facilitate successful adoption of lifestyle change in obese women with PCOS. Benefits of Vitamin D for PCOS Whether it’s your ideal weight, a non-scale victory or the next step on your journey to a more active lifestyle, setting a goal can really supercharge your slimming journey. Try and keep a little healthy with some easy health Christmas tips. Those encourage your body to keep fat. However, there are also mechanisms whereby the development of PCOS can contribute towards further weight-gain and hamper efforts to establish effective weight-loss. This includes development of conditions like type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), hypertension, and other features of the metabolic syndrome. The development of the global obesity epidemic over the last half century is likely to be multi-factorial and complex, and go far beyond simple food abundance. High-fiber foods, like whole grains, legumes and vegetables, help keep your blood sugar stable. It’s the gold standard for managing blood sugar for people not taking insulin. It can also help with PCOS-specific concerns, like insulin resistance and weight gain (including the so-called PCOS belly). Maintaining a healthy weight becomes easier, while your energy levels and productivity levels improve too! Whether you need help with healthy eating for sustainable weight loss or managing chronic diseases, our team is here to support you every step of the way. Higher cortisol levels make the insulin resistance of PCOS worse and can wreak havoc on sex and thyroid hormones. Fibre is super important for any successful diet because it helps to keep you full, reduces blood sugar levels and also keeps your bowel movements regular. This can contribute to widespread symptoms—including pain.Studies show that obesity in women with PCOS can't be explained by overeating or inactivity.Stress can lead to insulin resistance.If the stress hormone known as cortisol is chronically raised, this can contribute to insulin resistance and promote fat storage around the abdominal area.While a PCOS diagnosis can feel like a constant struggle, weight loss of 5-10% can make a big difference 2-5.Some symptoms of PCOS can be linked to inflammation from diet, stress and environment.And according to a study published in the World Journal of Diabetes, up to 80 percent of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, a condition in which cells don’t respond properly to the hormone insulin.Passionfruit, pomegranate, blackberries, and raspberries are also rich in dietary fiber.By practicing some self-care, such as meditation, exercise, and yoga, you can help clear the mental roadblocks that are preventing you from losing weight and build willpower to overcome challenges. Myo-inositol should be taken daily for the duration of treatment. Can I take myo-inositol during my period? But independent studies have observed significant issues with product quality and labeling accuracy . A moderate amount of alcohol is around 1 drink per day for women. Women with PCOS may experience imbalances in the ratio of the hormones estrogen to progesterone, and research suggests that alcohol intake may further aggravate this imbalance. Consuming two 4-ounce servings of fatty fish (like salmon, trout, or tuna) per week is enough to meet your omega-3 needs. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugars to about 25 grams per day (which is about 100 calories from added sugar), for the average female. For most individuals, aiming for a minimum of grams of protein with meals and grams of protein with snacks is a good starting point. Though there’s not a lot of evidence currently to back it up, a lot of women talk about how beneficial raspberry leaf tea was for their symptoms! Our livers are an important part of our body’s ability to regulate hormones. Green tea has even been shown to help with weight loss in some cases. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects approximately 6-12% of women of reproductive age in the United States. This blog post will dive into why weight loss is so difficult, the best supplements for PCOS weight loss, including how much to take and which brands, and some key facts about supplements. If you’re wondering what the best supplements for PCOS weight loss are, you’re in the right place. How can I prevent a hormonal imbalance? “The most effective way to look at weight loss for women with PCOS is as a personal journey and lifestyle change,” says Lisa Samuels, R.D., founder of The Happie House. Weight loss is not a cure for PCOS and it’s important for women to understand how their body processes food instead of simply watching the scale. WeightWatchers offers powerful weight-loss solutions for women living with PCOS, including access to clinicians, dietitians, trainers, and an empathetic community to boot. The importance of avoiding high GI and sugary foods These are rich in fiber, which keeps you feeling fuller for longer, regulates blood sugar, and aids digestion. Traditional Indian fermented foods and spices not only enhance flavor but also offer health benefits such as improved digestive health and reduced inflammation, which are vital in managing PCOS. Fermented favorites like idli, dosa, and curd are loaded with probiotics, promoting healthy digestion - a key factor in managing PCOS. Estrogen levels rise and fall throughout your life. Estrogen is a class of related hormones that includes estriol, estradiol, and estrone. Likewise, testosterone is referred to as the male sex hormone for the roles it plays in male sexual development and function. Estrogen is often called the female sex hormone, as it plays an important role in the female reproductive system. Estrogen and testosterone are sex hormones. Why is Weight Loss Difficult with PCOS? This might involve supplements such as inositol to improve insulin sensitivity or other therapies to address hormonal imbalances. It’s also important to check in regularly with your healthcare provider—like an endocrinologist or gynaecologist—who can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment options if necessary. By dispelling these myths, individuals with PCOS can focus on realistic, evidence-based strategies that lead to better health and sustainable weight management. After you start your period, the main type of estrogen in your body (except during pregnancy) is estradiol.A clinical study by Emekçi Özay et al. reported a higher pregnancy rate (18.6%) in myoinositol-treated patients than controls (12.2%).Additionally, the increased protein content can also help to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, leading to a more sustained release of energy throughout the morning.Women with PCOS most often have higher insulin levels.So, when you’re making a long-term PCOS meal plan, ensure you are considering how the foods will benefit you.Black rice, sweet potato, and quinoa are examples of relatively low GI, carbohydrate-rich whole foods.While there is limited data specifically targeting PCOS, emerging studies suggest GLP-1 RAs can improve weight, insulin sensitivity, and menstrual regularity in this group. It’s also important to take steps to avoid weight gain with PCOS. Hormonal imbalances caused by PCOS can make it harder to lose weight, and research indicates PCOS can reduce your basal metabolic rate (BMR) by 14-40%. I have found myself and I have turned a corner in terms of weight.” Adolescents with PCOS and obesity may have greater sleep-related risks including circadian misalignment and obstructive sleep apnea, interventions for which have not yet been conducted. Bariatric surgery is especially promising for decreasing weight in adults and youth, and reversing type 2 diabetes in youth, though PCOS data are lacking. Whereas there are promising data on anti-obesity medications such as glucagon like peptide-1 receptor agonists in adults with PCOS and adolescents with obesity, further work is needed to know if these therapies are effective in youth with PCOS. Studies suggest vitamin D supplementation may improve insulin sensitivity and support weight management in PCOS. The right vitamins for PCOS and weight loss may help address these underlying issues. These factors create a perfect storm that can make traditional weight loss approaches less effective. This guide explores evidence-based vitamins and supplements that can support your PCOS weight loss journey. Stress is harder on your body than we realize, especially when having PCOS means we have higher levels of cortisol. Hundreds of thousands of PCOS women have started losing weight using the free resources available on this website. When left untreated, subclinical hypothyroidism presents a significant barrier to weight loss. Relaxation exercises and sleep meditations can also make a positive impact on weight loss. It can also lead to high blood pressure and more. Visceral fat makes cardiovascular disease and diabetes more likely. Too many starchy carbohydrates and bad fats are a recipe for that midsection to expand. To get the most out of this intervention though, it’s important to also change how you eat. D-chiro-inositol alone should be approached more cautiously. No adverse effects were found in many studies that looked at normal doses taken during pregnancy 59, 60. High doses have been used in trials exploring the potential for inositol supplements to treat panic disorders . It is important to highlight that the factors discussed below may also apply to the general obese populace regardless of PCOS status, given the complex association between obesity and emotional and physical functioning.101,102 It is likely though that the clinical manifestation of PCOS (with frequent co-occurrence of obesity) and mental/emotional problems have complex and multi-directional interlinks and vary between individuals. Implementation of effective lifestyle strategies to achieve and maintain weight-loss and mitigate against ongoing weight-gain usually requires focus, drive, and commitment. It seems unlikely that modest changes in postprandial thermogenesis would contribute towards clinically meaningful weight-gain in PCOS. Compared with controls, postprandial thermogenesis was significantly lower in women with PCOS, and the difference between groups was more marked for obese women with PCOS (a difference of 41.1 kJ). She has shared everything from her romantic relationships, to her various business endeavors, to her weight and infertility struggles. To determine whether HelloFresh is worth the cost for you, consider your budget, cooking habits, and dietary goals. Others may find that HelloFresh is too expensive or not tailored to their specific dietary needs. HelloFresh also offers a “Protein Pack” add-on, which includes additional protein-rich ingredients like chicken breast or salmon fillets. Additionally, a simple low-carb or low-calorie diet isn’t a sustainable diet option, even if it works to shed pounds at first, warns Cynthia Flynn, M.D., board-certified OB/GYN at JustAnswer. That means you should go for foods that are sources of complex carbs, such as vegetables and fruits, whole grains, and legumes. “Where many women with PCOS get into trouble is when they give into the carbs they crave. Though symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, according to the U.S.