Benefits of the PCOS Diet

5-7% of all women are affected by Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, which is the leading cause of infertility. New research shows that a recently developed diet, the PCOS diet, has a positive effect on increasing fertility rates among women who suffer from this condition. Components of the PCOS diet are below.

1. Refined carbohydrates such as processed bread, chips, pizza, etc., need to be reduced on the PCOS diet. Do not eliminate carbs completely, but rather choose healthy carbohydrate options such as whole wheat bread, legumes, and brown rice.

2. Cut back on caffeine intake if you consume more than 1-2 servings a day. Switch to decaf coffee or herbal tea after your morning cup of joe. Soda drinkers should look for caffeine-free soda options.

3. Choose organic or hormone-free foods when possible, particularly meat. Most meat, beef and milk now comes from cows and animals that have been pumped full of hormones to grow larger, faster. These hormones do not leave the animal's system and are thus consumed by people. Hormones can severely impact fertility, so you should avoid any food that contains hormones.

4. Consume plenty of fruits and vegetables. Not only should you increase your daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, but vary the types. All fruits and vegetables contain a multitude of vitamins and minerals that are conducive to conception. They not only increase your fertility, but also flush toxins from your system that can inhibit conception. By eating a wide variety, you will ensure you are getting plenty of the vitamins and minerals your body needs.5. If you suffer from PCOS and are in the process of trying to conceive, make sure you speak to your ob/gyn about your specific needs and the PCOS diet. A referral to a nutritionist can help you get started on this diet and increase your fertility.