How's PCOD Related To Weight Gain?
PCOD and weight gain
PCOD or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a hormonal disorder and is one of the leading causes of infertility in women. PCOD can also cause irregular periods, excess facial hair, acne and weight gain.
The hormonal imbalance in PCOD can also result in changes in your body shape. It can make your body store more fat than it burns.
The main reason for this fat accumulation is insulin resistance. A woman with PCOD may have a higher level of insulin in her blood, which increases the production of male hormones called androgens.
A higher level of androgen will lead to higher levels of male hormones which result in the formation of hair on the face.
This can also cause weight gain in some cases, because excess body hair may block sweat glands and hinder healthy sweating.
PCOD and PCOS
PCOS is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Usually, PCOD and PCOS exhibit common symptoms, such as irregular or lack of menstrual periods, acne, and excess weight gain.
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance that results in small cysts in the ovaries. It is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age.
The main reason for weight gain in PCOS may be insulin resistance. Melatonin, Ibuprofen, Vitamin C are some of the home remedies for PCOS which help in controlling weight gain as well.
In some women, PCOS and weight gain can be related to the increased production and release of male hormones called androgens. This hormone imbalance is particularly common in women with PCOS.
Which is a more serious condition?
PCOD is a metabolic disorder, whereas PCOS is a serious disease. Since PCOD can be controlled with the help of a balanced diet and regular exercise, it is not as fatal as PCOS.
Which is a more common condition?
PCOD is more common in women than PCOS. Almost one-third of women in the world are diagnosed with polycystic ovarian disease.
What are the causative factors?
PCOS is an endocrine disorder whereas PCOD is a condition that is the result of hormonal imbalance.
High levels of androgen (male hormone) prevent the ovaries from producing eggs. Androgen levels in women with polycystic ovary syndromes are also linked with insulin resistance and inflammation.
Is it possible to get pregnant with PCOD/PCOS?
Women with PCOS may face a challenge when it comes to getting pregnant because due to hormonal imbalances, the ovum does not get a suitable environment to infuse with the sperm and hence, conception becomes difficult.
Women with PCOD can easily get pregnant by following some simple changes in their lifestyle.
Maintaining a balanced diet and doing regular exercise, along with making smart choices about day-to-day activities can prevent hormonal disturbances. These conditions should not be left untreated. Proper and timely diagnosis is essential to make the conception process successful.
Causes of weight gain in PCOD
Higher levels of insulin are linked with higher levels of the male hormone, androgen. When androgen levels increase, it leads to various issues like excess body hair, acne, irregular periods and weight gain.
Weight gain is typically triggered by androgen and as men tend to carry weight, women with PCOD also suffer from weight gain leading to an apple shape rather than a pear shape.
The fats get accumulated in the abdomen, making women prone to heart diseases, infertility, type 2 diabetes and other serious health ailments.
How to deal with PCOS/PCOD induced weight gain?
Do not take PCOD casually and consult a specialist before it’s too late. It should not be left untreated as it can cause serious health conditions. Along with the right treatment, you will also have to make some lifestyle changes by following a strict balanced diet and doing exercise regularly.
A balanced diet and mindful eating
Mindful eating is a technique that helps a person to understand and control their eating habits. This technique can help in solving problematic eating behaviours, especially overeating and eating out of boredom.
Once you are aware of your eating issues, you can plan out a well crafted balanced diet. A balanced diet should be filled with nutrient-rich foods, containing all fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables. Detox drinks can also do wonders!
Avoid processed foods
Avoid all types of processed and packed foods as they are linked to obesity. Beverages also contain excess sugar which can have adverse effects on insulin levels.
Reduce inflammation
Chronic inflammation is quite common in women diagnosed with PCOD. High inflammation due to intake of processed and sugary foods can induce conditions like obesity. Eating a nutrient-rich meal that includes fresh fruits and vegetables may safeguard against inflammation.
Avoid eating less to lose weight
Not eating will reduce calories but not in a healthy way, and this could lead to other health conditions. Your metabolism will eventually slow down, negatively affecting the hormones that control appetite. Instead, focus on having the right calories that may promote weight loss.
Stress management
Stress increases cortisol level which is linked to insulin resistance and weight gain. Adequate sleep, regular exercise, practising yoga, meditation, etc can help to deal with stress but if stress becomes severe leading to anxiety and depression, it is recommended to consult a specialist.
Take Away
The journey of losing weight when diagnosed with PCOD/PCOS can be challenging. Try to maintain a healthy diet by reducing the intake of inflammatory foods like refined carbs or highly processed foods. Add to your diet: foods rich in protein, healthy fats and fibre. This may help in getting rid of accumulated fats in your body.
Take up some stress management techniques, practise yoga to have a sound sleep. Try out all the tips mentioned above to enhance your weight loss journey. Consult a doctor and do not hesitate to seek comfort from your loved ones because we know the struggle is real!
