If this title applies to you, you are certainly not alone! Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 1 in 5 women during their reproductive years and of these almost half will have IBS, according to a 2010 study.
Never heard of PCOS? Here is a quick run down.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder where the follicles produced by the ovaries do not develop properly into eggs. They instead remain as little fluid filled sacs (cysts) building up and staying attached to the ovaries. Hence the name! To be diagnosed you must see a doctor and have at least two of the following:
- Hyperandrogenism (high levels of male hormones)
- Acne, male-pattern hair growth, abdominal obesity, alopecia
- Menstrual Problems
- Lack of period or irregular period
- Polycystic ovaries on pelvic ultrasound
- 12 or more follicles on each ovary
PCOS and IBS – Same, same but different.
Many women with PCOS report similar symptoms to those with IBS including bloating, constipation/diarrhea, stomach and pelvic pain. PCOS does present some other issues however including poor blood sugar control, difficulty losing weight, reduced fertility and poor body image. The good news is diet can play a huge role in helping to manage the symptoms of PCOS AND IBS.
Control your PCOS and IBS with what you eat!
If you are overweight a 5-10% weight loss can reduce male hormone levels, regulate your period and improve fertility!
GOAL: Maintain a healthy weight and manage gut symptoms.
HOW?
- Low GI, high fibre foods – These keep you feeling fuller for longer and help to control blood sugar levels
- Base meals around vegetables, plant proteins and fruit – These are low in energy and full of nutrients
- Avoid processed foods and those high in added sugars and fats – These are high in energy and low in nutrients
BUT…. to manage IBS symptoms try putting a low FODMAP spin on these types of foods.
HOW?
- Low GI, high fibre – Sourdough bread, quinoa, 1/2 C rolled oats or low FODMAP natural muesli
- Vegetables, wholegrain and fruit – Eggplant, beans, boy choy, tofu, grapes, orange, strawberries
- Healthy snacks – Dark chocolate or macadamias
Everyone’s symptoms are very individual so while these tips may help some people the best thing you can do is see an IBS trained dietitian who can provide tailored advice. You can also sign up to the FODMAP Challenge to get some great meal plans, recipes, guidance and support from specialist dietitians and a community of members who have tried it.
Don’t let PCOS and IBS symptoms rule your life – choosing the right foods can make a world of difference.
By: Sarah Gulliver
IG: sarahjgulliver
Image sourced from pinterest