Keto Diet: A Recipe for PCOS Women to Boost Their Fertility

The Keto diet may improve reproductive health in PCOS women, reducing testosterone levels & aiding weight loss.

A recent paper published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society suggests that the ketogenic (keto) diet could potentially lead to reduced testosterone levels in women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is the most prevalent hormonal disorder among women, affecting approximately 7-10% of those of childbearing age. This condition can result in infertility and heightens the likelihood of developing conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic health issues.

Women with PCOS Typically Exhibit at least Two of the Following Signs

Elevated levels of testosterone and other androgen hormones associated with male reproduction
Irregular periods
Large ovaries with many small follicles

The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that has shown promising effects in women with PCOS. Research has found it may help women lose and maintain weight loss, improve fertility, optimize cholesterol levels, and normalize menstrual cycles ().

“We found an association between the ketogenic diet and an improvement in reproductive hormone levels, which influence fertility, in women with PCOS,” said study author Karniza Khalid, M.B.B.S., M.Med.Sc., of the Ministry of Health Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur. “These findings have important clinical implications, especially for endocrinologists, gynecologists, and dieticians. In addition to medical treatment, they should carefully plan and customize individual diet recommendations for women with PCOS."

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Following a ketogenic (keto) diet may enhance fertility for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). #ketodiet #pcos #fertility

The researchers conducted a meta-analysis of clinical trials involving women with PCOS on the keto diet and examined the diet’s effects on their reproductive hormones (follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, and progesterone) as well as weight change.

They found that women with PCOS who followed the keto diet for at least 45 days experienced significant weight loss and improved their reproductive hormone levels. Their follicle-stimulating hormone ratio was lower, which suggests an enhanced likelihood of ovulation. Additionally, these women had lower testosterone levels, potentially aiding in managing symptoms related to excess male sex hormones, such as excess hair growth.

Reference:

Women with PCOS on keto diet may see improvements in fertility - (https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/2023/women-with-pcos-on-keto-diet-may-see-improvements-in-fertility)

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