What supplements are recommended for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

From the Guidelines

For managing PCOS, lifestyle changes, including a low-glycemic diet, regular exercise, and stress management, are the most effective approach, and supplements such as inositol, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, N-acetylcysteine, magnesium, and zinc may be beneficial in improving insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and overall symptoms. When considering supplements, it's essential to prioritize those with the most substantial evidence base.

• Inositol, specifically myo-inositol at 2-4 grams daily, has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and may help regulate menstrual cycles and ovulation 1.
• Vitamin D, at 1000-2000 IU daily, is beneficial if you're deficient, which is common in PCOS patients 1.
• Omega-3 fatty acids, at 1-2 grams daily, may reduce inflammation and improve hormone balance 1.
• N-acetylcysteine (NAC), at 600-1800 mg daily, might improve insulin sensitivity and reduce testosterone levels 1.
• Magnesium, at 200-400 mg daily, may help with insulin resistance, and zinc, at 30-50 mg daily, could help regulate hormones 1. It's crucial to note that while these supplements may be beneficial, they should be used in conjunction with lifestyle changes and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as some supplements may interact with medications. The most recent and highest-quality study, published in 2024, highlights the importance of lifestyle management in PCOS, including a low-glycemic diet, regular exercise, and stress management, and suggests that supplements can be a useful adjunct to these lifestyle changes 1. Ultimately, the goal of managing PCOS is to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and overall symptoms, and a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes and evidence-based supplements is the most effective way to achieve this.

From the Research

PCOS and Supplements

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, characterized by anovulation, inflammation, and infertility 2.
• PCOS has several health implications, including increased metabolic, reproductive, and psychological risks, making alternative treatment options necessary 2.
• Natural molecules such as curcumin, vitamin D, inositol, and CoQ10 have been studied for their therapeutic ability in improving PCOS symptoms, including decreasing insulin sensitivity and inflammation, and restoring ovarian function 2.

Effective Supplements for PCOS

• Inositol supplementation has been shown to be effective in improving glucose homeostasis and fertility in PCOS patients, with a restoration of ovulatory capacity and menstrual regularity 3.
• Vitamin D and probiotics have been found to be effective in reducing hyperandrogenism, inflammatory, and oxidative conditions in PCOS patients 3.
• Other supplements such as vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and omega-3 fatty acids have also been found to be beneficial in improving PCOS symptoms, including reducing inflammation and oxidative stress 4, 5.

Nutritional Supplements and Herbal Medicines for PCOS

• A systematic review and meta-analysis found that nutritional supplements and herbal medicines, including inositol, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial in improving menstrual regulation and reducing adverse effects in PCOS patients 6.
• However, the evidence is not conclusive, and high-quality trials are needed to support the effectiveness and safety of these supplements in PCOS management 6, 5.
• A review of the literature suggests that specific vitamins, minerals, and other formulations, such as melatonin, probiotics, and cinnamon, may be beneficial in PCOS, but further research is needed to confirm these findings 5.