Protein is extremely important for good health. According to Healthline, proteins are made up of amino acids that join together to form long chains. It also crucial for body’s growth and maintenance and immunity.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. According to Johns Hopkins, a healthy diet and more physical activity can help you lose weight and reduce your symptoms. They can also help your body use insulin more efficiently, lower blood glucose levels, and may help you ovulate.
Nutritionist Sarul Jain maintains that PCOS in a number of ways, including:
- Weight loss: Protein can help you feel full and satisfied, which can lead to weight loss and weight maintenance.
- Blood sugar control: Protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels throughout the day.
- Reduced cravings: Protein can help reduce cravings, especially after work or in the evening.
- Muscle mass: Protein can help build and maintain muscle mass.
- Nutrient intake: Protein can help you increase your intake of nutrients like iron, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, zinc, and choline.
- Reduced risk of diabetes: Protein can help prevent prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, which are common complications of PCOS
Here are some tips for incorporating protein into your diet:
- Eat a small meal or snack every three to five hours, and include a small amount of lean protein or vegetable in each.
- When choosing a protein bar, look for one with whole food ingredients and lots of protein and fiber.
- Avoid protein powders that are expensive, unregulated, or contain additives and sweeteners.
- You can also try adding high fiber foods to your diet, such as cruciferous vegetables, greens, beans, lentils, almonds, berries, sweet potatoes, winter squash, and pumpkin
“The Ideal Protein Protocol helps rebalance your sex hormones, regulates insulin levels, and decreases inflammatory markers; this translates into restoration of fertility, control of PCOS-related symptoms, improved lipid panels, and weight loss. Lean proteins such as tofu, fish, and chicken help to maintain hormonal balance. Also, the consumption of lean proteins is effective in weight management which is crucial if you are suffering from ovarian cysts,” Jain said.