The Effectiveness of Dietary Intervention on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Management: An Exploratory Literature Review

Abstract

This review analyzes the potential effectiveness of dietary intervention in the management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), as well as its associated symptoms and comorbidities. The dietary regimens covered in this review are as follows: the Mediterranean Diet (MD), the Ketogenic Diet (KD), and nutritional therapy utilizing the addition of micronutrients and/or macronutrient distribution manipulation. This review surveys whether effective use of these measures can not only be used as an effective treatment for PCOS but also can assist with its symptoms and comorbidities while limiting drug and surgical regimens. A literature analysis of English-written, peer-reviewed research through PubMed was conducted to gather evidence on the potential effectiveness of a dietary intervention on PCOS management. Women who followed a MD were less likely to suffer from PCOS symptoms and lead a healthier lifestyle. This treatment often prevented weight gain, promoted exercise, and decreased the likelihood of development and/or persistence of comorbidities. Additionally, our team gathered significant evidence that the administration of omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, selenium, vitamin E, catechin, glycyrrhizin, and coenzyme Q10 assists PCOS women, and effectively manages symptoms. It can be concluded that the MD allows women to manage and reduce the physical symptoms and comorbidities associated with PCOS most effectively. Firstly, the MD is associated with decreased inflammation, improved hormonal regulation, as well as downregulation of cellular and humoral immunological pathways related to disease activity and progression in PCOS. Although the KD may be beneficial because it reduces carbohydrates leading to improved liver function and insulin sensitivity in PCOS patients, more investigation is required. Additionally, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, selenium, vitamin E, catechin, glycyrrhizin, and coenzyme Q10 should be considered in women with PCOS. Research indicates that this type of micronutrient supplementation with PCOS patients improves inflammatory factors, biomarkers of oxidative stress, and metabolic parameters. Lastly, diet modification and exercise prevent the onset of metabolic syndrome and infertility in women, specifically in those who follow a low protein and high fiber diet. This can be achieved on a MD, further suggesting the potential benefits of its adoption among the PCOS population.