From the Guidelines
Natural products such as inositol supplements, spearmint tea, cinnamon, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and N-acetylcysteine may help manage PCOS without exercise, but should complement, not replace, conventional medical treatment. When considering natural products to treat PCOS without exercise, it's essential to focus on those that address hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
- Inositol supplements, particularly myo-inositol at 2-4 grams daily, can improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation 1.
- Spearmint tea, consumed at 2 cups daily, has shown potential to reduce excess androgens that cause hirsutism and acne.
- Cinnamon, taken at 1-2 grams daily, may help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, at 1-3 grams daily from fish oil or flaxseed, can reduce inflammation associated with PCOS.
- Vitamin D supplementation, at 1000-2000 IU daily, is beneficial for many with PCOS who are deficient.
- N-acetylcysteine (NAC), at 600-1800 mg daily, may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. A balanced diet low in refined carbohydrates is also crucial for managing PCOS, even without exercise, as emphasized by recent studies on dietary behaviors in women with and without PCOS 1. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements, especially if taking medications, as some natural products may have interactions.
From the FDA Drug Label
Hydrastis canadensis 1M Less than 10 -12 mg hydrastine, berberine alkaloids per pellet (**contains 0.443 mg of the active ingredient per pellet) The answer to using natural products to treat PCOS that doesn't involve exercise is berberine.
- Berberine is a natural product that may be used to treat PCOS. However, the provided information does not explicitly state its effectiveness for PCOS treatment 2.
From the Research
Natural Products for PCOS Treatment
Some natural products may be beneficial in treating PCOS without involving exercise, including:
- Inositols, as mentioned in studies 3, 4, 5
- Omega-3 fatty acids, as discussed in studies 3, 5, 6
- Vitamin D, as mentioned in studies 3, 5
- Flavonoids and flavones, as discussed in study 5
- Resveratrol, as mentioned in study 5
- Probiotics, as discussed in study 3
- Cinnamon, as mentioned in study 3
- Melatonin, as discussed in study 3
- α-lipoic acid, as mentioned in study 3
- Bioflavonoids, as discussed in study 3
- Calcium, zinc, selenium, and chromium picolinate, as mentioned in study 3
Mechanisms of Action
These natural products may help alleviate PCOS symptoms by: