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Plant-Based Milk and PCOS: A Nutrient-Rich Solution

Published : Jun 16, 2023 3 mins read Updated On : Nov 03, 2023

PCOS is a condition where the ovaries create abnormally high levels of androgens, the male sex hormones that are typically present in women in trace amounts. During the reproductive years, often changes in hormones and imbalances occur and this condition is called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which affects the ovaries. Weight loss and early identification and treatment could reduce the risk of long-term problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease. (Daniilidis and colleagues, 2009). The first menstrual period is frequently when PCOS symptoms first appear. After having periods for some time, symptoms can sometimes appear later. Variable PCOS symptoms exist.

• Irregular Menstrual Cycles-

PCOS is frequently characterized by irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles. Having periods that last several days or longer than what is customary for a period is also acceptable. You might, for instance, experience less than nine periods a year. Another symptom can be experiencing difficulties conceiving.

• Rise in Androgen Hormone-

Excessive body and face hair may come from high androgen levels this condition is called Hirsutism Male-pattern baldness and severe acne can also occur occasionally.

Asthma, thyroid, and PCOS are all directly impacted by inflammatory foods such as dairy and meat. For those who experience hormonal abnormalities like PCOS and thyroid, the high steroid and hormone dosages in cows that are passed on to humans through milk can be harmful. “We have no idea how the cows are raised”, says Shiny Surendran, a Sports Nutritionist with a graduate diploma in Sports Nutrition From The International Olympic Committee. “To increase a cow's milk production, cross-breeding and hormone injections may be used. Hormones can also be disturbed by poor feed quality, pasteurization, and IGF growth factors. We can lessen the effects of PCOS by altering to plant-based diets and becoming physically active.”

According to Dr. Nithiya Palaniappan, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, eating certain foods may help the body slow down the PCOS process and prevent harmful side effects like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension in the future.

Why Consume Almond Milk?

Almonds can help with the symptoms of polycystic syndrome (PCOS). Almonds contain phytic acid- MI (Myo-inositol), and aids in easing PCOS-related health problems. Vitamin B complex, which controls ovarian and hormonal processes, contains MI. Almonds are superfoods that provide the ideal ratio of mono-unsaturated fats. Almonds are good for PCOS patients because they reduce free testosterone levels and balance female hormones. Almond milk serves as a perfect dairy-free alternative to animal milk, making it a suitable and ideal choice for lactose-intolerant people.

Unsweetened almond milk has fewer calories and carbs than cow's milk, which can help people lose weight. For women with PCOS, maintaining a healthy weight is essential since it enhances insulin sensitivity and regulates hormonal imbalances.

Almond milk's has low glycemic index it means that it doesn't significantly increase blood sugar levels. This is crucial for PCOS sufferers since they frequently struggle with insulin resistance, which raises blood sugar levels and exacerbates PCOS symptoms.

Almond milk is a good source of magnesium, which is necessary for a number of body processes, including the management of hormones and blood sugar. Almond milk can assist women with PCOS satisfy their magnesium needs since magnesium insufficiency is widespread in this population.

Almond milk is a good source of vitamin E, a strong antioxidant that lowers oxidative stress and inflammation. Since it is thought that oxidative stress and inflammation play a role in the onset and progression of PCOS, consuming foods strong in antioxidants, such as almond milk, can be advantageous.

Plant Based Milk and PCOS

Researchers discovered that women with PCOS who self-reported their intake had a higher consumption of low- and free-fat milk. The study involved 400 Iranian women with PCOS.

It was discovered that a low-starch/low-dairy diet helped PCOS patients lose weight, increase their insulin sensitivity, and reduce their levels of testosterone.

These few studies demonstrate that, when combined with other dietary changes, such as a low GL diet, women with PCOS can consume moderate amounts of dairy and still see benefits in their metabolic and reproductive health.

The current investigation found a strong association between the typical intake of milk and PCOS. Additionally, it was discovered that people with PCOS consumed more low- and free-fat milk. According to the findings, low-fat milk and PCOS have a beneficial link. Dairy products with low fat may raise IGF-I (insulin-like growth factor-I) levels. ( 2014 Golnaz Rajaeieh et al.)

 

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