Got PCOS? Here’s what you should eat and avoid!

Millions of women around the world suffer from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or PCOS as it is more popularly known as. And while medicines will help to a great extent, it is your diet that will be of great help.
The condition is said to affect women when there is an imbalance of sex hormones, which in turn lead to irregular periods, cysts in the ovaries, excessive acne, increase in hair growth on the body or face, and in worst case scenarios, inability to get pregnant.At times, PCOS can also be a hereditary problem.
Health experts say that eating a healthy diet, packed with fresh fruits and vegetables, is one of the best ways to manage PCOS because weight gain is one of the biggest symptoms of the ailment.
Make sure you limit your consumption of saturated and trans fat because this will lead to excessive weight gain, high cholesterol and high BP. Instead consume healthy unsaturated fats, which are available in canola and olive oil, avocados and different types of nuts.
Another thing you need to increase is your fibre intake — this will keep your blood sugar levels and cholesterol in check. Foods like oranges, pears, spinach, broccoli, oats, brown rice, quinoa, figs, lentils, chickpeas, wheat bran, flaxseeds and almonds are packed with fibre, so make sure you include them in your diet.
Another important item to include in your diet is protein — found in chicken, certain fish, soy, nuts, milk or legumes.
Foods to stay away from are those, which contain too much salt, sugar and refined flour like white bread and rice, soda, sugary or fizzy drinks, salty and fried food and chocolate.
It is also advisable to stay active and exercise at least five times a week.
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