Top 7 Supplements to Manage PCOS

Supplements to help manage PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting many women in India.

Managing it can be an added hurdle for PCOS girlies 🥤

Managing PCOS often requires a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle changes, diet, exercise, and sometimes medication.

Supplements can also play a significant role in managing PCOS symptoms.

Here are the top 7 supplements that can help manage PCOS, particularly for Indian women.

Grab that notepad 📝 and read on!

1. Inositol (Myo-Inositol and D-Chiro-Inositol)

Inositol, specifically Myo-Inositol and D-Chiro-Inositol, is known to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce androgen levels in women with PCOS. These effects can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve ovulation.

Benefits:

• Improves insulin sensitivity

• Reduces testosterone levels

• Promotes regular menstrual cycles

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 2 grams of Myo-Inositol and 50 mg of D-Chiro-Inositol twice daily.

• Combine with folic acid for enhanced effects.

  
  

2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce testosterone levels in women with PCOS.

Benefits:

• Reduces inflammation

• Lowers androgen levels

• Improves insulin sensitivity

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 1,000-2,000 mg of fish oil daily.

• Look for supplements with high EPA and DHA content.

  
  

3. Vitamin D

Vitamin D deficiency is common in women with PCOS and can exacerbate symptoms. Supplementing with Vitamin D can improve insulin resistance and support reproductive health.

Benefits:

• Improves insulin resistance

• Supports healthy ovulation

• Enhances mood and energy levels

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 1,000-2,000 IU daily.

• Get your Vitamin D levels checked to determine the right dosage.

  
  

4. N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)

N- Acetylcysteine is a powerful antioxidant that helps improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress. It can also support liver health, which is crucial for hormone balance.

Benefits:

• Enhances insulin sensitivity

• Reduces oxidative stress

• Supports liver detoxification

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 600-1,200 mg daily.

• Take with meals to improve absorption.

  
  

5. Magnesium

Magnesium is essential for many bodily functions and can help alleviate symptoms of PCOS, such as insulin resistance and mood swings.

Benefits:

• Improves insulin sensitivity

• Reduces inflammation

• Supports healthy mood and sleep

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 300-400 mg daily.

• Magnesium glycinate or citrate forms are well-absorbed.

  
  

6. Zinc

Zinc plays a vital role in hormone production and can help reduce the symptoms of PCOS, such as acne and hair loss.

Benefits:

• Supports hormone balance

• Reduces acne and hair loss

• Enhances immune function

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 30-50 mg daily.

• Take with food to avoid stomach upset.

  
  

7. Berberine

Berberine is a plant compound that can significantly improve insulin sensitivity and reduce glucose levels, similar to the effects of metformin.

Benefits:

• Improves insulin sensitivity

• Lowers blood sugar levels

• Supports weight management

How to Take:

• Recommended dose: 500 mg 2-3 times daily.

• Take before meals for best results.

  
  

Combining supplements and lifestyle changes

While these supplements can help manage PCOS, they are most effective when combined with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Here are some additional tips:

Healthy diet

• Focus on a balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Limit processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

Regular exercise

• Incorporate a mix of cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and yoga into your routine.

• Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Stress management

• Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness.

• Ensure you get enough sleep and maintain a regular sleep schedule.

How Arva can help with PCOS management

We at Arva understand that PCOS isn’t just a one-glove-fits-all solution. PCOS has a spectrum of symptoms, and for every single one of us, the type of symptom can vary.

That’s why we collaborated with top gynaecologists pan India to bring you the right resources and information to help you manage PCOS.

With our PCOS support program, we help you consult healthcare professionals to understand your underlying health conditions or other medications. They can help tailor a supplement plan to your specific needs and monitor your progress.

Get started with our fertility test to help assess hormonal levels, or a consultation with Arva approved gynaecologists to kickstart your PCOS management plan, today 📙

We’ve got your back❤️