What is PCOS?
The numerous tiny cysts (fluid-filled sacs) that develop in the ovaries are known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). In the case of PCOS, the ovaries create abnormally high levels of androgens, the male sex hormones that are typically present in women in small amounts.
PCOS is a disorder with an uncertain etiology, which means that its specific cause is unknown. We do, however, understand how to treat it and regulate your hormone levels so that this illness does not negatively impact you.
There are now several options for supplements for PCOS that help with weight reduction goals, which have recently received a lot of media attention. This is why we compiled the best supplements for PCOS in this article, as well as the science behind them!
Best Supplements for PCOS Weight Loss
Myo-inositol
Myo-inositol is a particular kind of inositol. This vitamin can help PCOS patients lose weight. One kind of sugar that helps increase insulin sensitivity is inositol. Interestingly, an analysis of 15 studies discovered a potential association between inositol intake and a drop in BMI.
Carnitine
An amino acid present in meat called carnitine can also help people lose weight.
According to an analysis of nine studies, carnitine supplementation could successfully lower fasting blood sugar levels and BMI in persons with PCOS.
L-carnitine aids in the body’s conversion of fat to energy. When compared to placebo, L-carnitine supplementation reduces body weight, BMI, waist circumference, and hip circumference in women with PCOS. Additionally, measures of insulin sensitivity and glycemic control showed improvements.
Berberine
An herb called berberine is utilized in Chinese medicine to treat insulin resistance. Berberine can boost your metabolism and normalize your body’s endocrine reactions if you have PCOS.
For women with PCOS, berberine plays a critical role in lowering levels of androgen, or male hormone. Leptin levels are also known to be decreased by berberine. Leptin is a hormone that stimulates appetite; hence, lowering leptin levels can help with weight loss.
Turmeric
Curcumin is the name of the turmeric’s primary active component.
Common PCOS symptoms like weight gain, cystic acne, thick facial hair, and even resistance to weight loss are caused by unintended androgen production. Fortunately, turmeric acts as an anti-inflammatory and can help you reduce insulin resistance and the symptoms that go along with it.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil has been used to treat irregular menstruation and period pain. Additionally, it can reduce oxidative stress and cholesterol levels, both issues are connected to PCOS.
The type of body fat most commonly associated with PCOS, the central body fat, appears to be specifically reduced. Notably, evening primrose oil also lowers triglyceride levels.
Cinnamon
According to multiple research, PCOS patients who took cinnamon supplements orally lost weight. It has also been demonstrated to be helpful for gynecological, pulmonary, and digestive disorders, as well as for regulating the menstrual cycle.
In a double-blind, randomized, controlled clinical trial in women with PCOS, an 8-week supplementation with 1.5 g of cinnamon for women with PCOS revealed a substantial reduction in body weight, insulin, and serum fasting blood glucose.
Chromium
Chromium supplements could optimize your body mass index, which would be beneficial for PCOS. They can also assist your body’s metabolism of sugar to regulate insulin resistance.
According to the findings of a recent pilot study supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a new nutritional therapy option for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may involve daily supplementation with 1,000 mcg of chromium.
Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil is made from—you guessed it—the livers of cod fish.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and loaded with Vitamins A and D, cod liver oil has powerful anti-inflammatory qualities. These acids can help you lose fat around your waist and improve menstruation regularity.
Other benefits of cod liver oil for your PCOS:
- Balances Female Hormones
- Reduces Inflammation
- Improves Insulin Sensitivity
- Reduces Unwanted Hair Growth
- Improves Symptoms of PMS
- Decreases Heart Disease Risk
- Reduces Fatty Liver Disease
- Fights Acne
B Complex Vitamins
B12 and folate (B9) are the two forms of B vitamins for PCOS patients.
The B vitamins, particularly B12, and folate, are among the best for naturally treating PCOS. People with PCOS frequently have high homocysteine levels. Both B vitamins reduce inflammation by reducing the amino acid homocysteine. B vitamins are specifically believed to aid PCOS patients in the fight against insulin resistance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Since omega-3 fatty acids are strong antioxidants in their natural state, it has been discovered that they can reduce inflammation. They aid in controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels and, if you’re overweight, they can aid in losing weight.
Additionally, they are in charge of regulating hormone levels, which enhances your chances of becoming pregnant. In addition to assisting with these, it also assists in stress relief and may have positive effects on mental problems as well as PCOS.
Conclusion
The following information concerning supplements for PCOS should be kept in mind. Despite being natural compounds, they do have the potential to be medical. It is important to take supplements in the amounts advised by your doctor. While too much can be harmful, too little might not be as beneficial.
