From the Research
Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) gain approximately 0.26 kg/year on average, which translates to around 2.6 pounds per year, according to the most recent and highest quality study available 1. This weight gain is primarily due to the hormonal imbalances characteristic of PCOS, particularly insulin resistance, which affects how the body processes carbohydrates and stores fat. Some key factors that contribute to weight gain in women with PCOS include:
- Energy intake
- Sitting time
- Stress
- Low fiber intake
- Low physical activity In contrast, factors that may help mitigate weight gain include:
- High fiber intake
- Regular physical activity
- Healthy diet quality
- Low glycaemic index Managing weight gain in PCOS typically requires a comprehensive approach including a low-glycemic diet, regular exercise (both cardio and strength training), and sometimes medications like metformin to improve insulin sensitivity, as supported by studies such as 2. Early intervention is crucial, as weight gain can worsen PCOS symptoms and create a challenging cycle where PCOS causes weight gain, which then exacerbates the condition further. It's essential to note that lifestyle factors have a more profound impact on weight gain in women with PCOS than without PCOS, highlighting the importance of early lifestyle intervention as soon as PCOS is diagnosed to address modifiable extrinsic factors and prevent excess weight gain and worsening of the clinical features of PCOS, as indicated by 1.