- 15 March 2023
The role of nutrition in women’s hormonal health and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine and metabolic disorder amongst women in Australia, affecting 5-10% of women and girls of reproductive age.
Insulin resistance is likely to be a significant risk factor for PCOS development. Women with PCOS are also more likely to have higher blood pressure and elevated blood lipid levels, placing them at increased risk for type two diabetes and cardiovascular disease. While there are many proposed mechanisms for the development of PCOS, the standard Western diet, high in fat and overall calories may contribute to PCOS etiology.
Dietary modifications are recommended as a first-line therapy for the management of PCOS. In addition to a beneficial effect on weight control, a low fat, whole food plant-based approach, naturally high in dietary fibre may help to increase sex-hormone binding globulins (SHBG), thus regulating bioavailability of androgens. SHBG has been shown to be an important predictor of PCOS risk and severity.
By the end of this activity, attendees will be able to:
- Describe the pathophysiology leading to the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
- Identify at least three features of an eating pattern that can be beneficial for women’s hormonal health.
- List tools and techniques to support women suffering from PCOS to transition to a whole food plant-based diet.
