PCOD- Diet You Must Follow!

What is PCOD?

PCOD or Polycystic Ovarian Disease is a disorder that causes innumerable hormonal disorders. It causes disruption in the normal menstrual cycle, often delaying it. Having been diagnosed with PCOD makes a woman prone to diabetes, cholesterol and cancer. A large number of cysts develop on the ovaries which enlarge when afflicted by this condition. PCOD can increase the chances of severe muscle spasms during one’s periods.

Causes Of PCOD-

1. The cysts are mostly caused due to hormonal changes and fluctuations.

2. It could be genetic.

3. PCOD can also be a result of an unhealthy lifestyle that includes little rest, inadequate sleep and unwholesome diet lacking in the right nutrients.

Symptoms Of PCOD-

1. Acne

2. Excessive growth of facial hair

3. Weight gain

4. Difficulty in losing weight

5. Excessive hair on body as well, including chest, stomach and back

6. Irregular menstrual cycle. Women may miss their periods, or bleed more than once a month

7. Extremely heavy bleeding

8. Severe pain and muscular cramps during menstruation

9. Problems getting pregnant

10. Infertility

11. High blood pressure

12. High cholesterol

13. Depression

14. Other serious hormonal disorders

15. It can lead to diabetes

16. It can lead to repeated miscarriages

17. A major risk of PCOD if left untreated, is that it can lead to endometrial cancer

Diet For PCOD-

A healthy diet along with physical activities and abstinence from smoking can help to reduce the symptoms of PCOD and prevent the disease.

1. Increase the intake of fresh, green vegetables.

2. Cutting down on junk, fried food and most importantly, processed food.

3. Abstaining from or greatly reducing the intake of alcohol.

4. Including lots of fibre, roughage in the diet.

5. Cutting down on sugary, aerated drinks.

6. Including lean proteins in the diet.

7. Reduce dairy products as milk may raise the levels of testosterones in the body.

8. Reducing or eliminating consumption of caffeine may help to increase chances of a fertile reproductive system.

9. Prevent yourself from giving in to unhealthy food cravings. Eat small healthy meals at regular intervals.

10. Include fruits, nuts and colourful veggies in your diet. If you wish to discuss about any specific problem, you can consult an ayurveda.