Many PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) patients struggle with weight issues and it’s no wonder since the condition is associated with weight gain. If you’re also struggling with low thyroid function, then you’re not alone – millions of people all over the world struggle with this issue. The good news is that there are ways to lose weight with PCOS and hypothyroidism, even if you haven’t been able to lose weight in the past.
The key is to figure out which diets work best for you and your body type. There are certain diets that are known to help people with PCOS and hypothyroidism, such as the ketogenic diet and the modified Atkins diet. In this article, we will discuss how you can use these diets to your advantage to help you shed those extra pounds.
The Ketogenic Diet
As mentioned earlier, there are certain diets that have been known to help people with PCOS and hypothyroidism. One of these is the ketogenic diet. If you’re not familiar, the ketogenic diet forces the body into a metabolic state called ketosis. Essentially, ketones (an important source of energy for the body) are produced in the liver when the body is in a state of ketosis. As a result, more calories are being burned than are being consumed – an important factor in weight loss. Additionally, since the ketogenic diet inhibits the growth of new hair follicles, patients with PCOS benefit from it in this way too.
When in ketosis, the body is naturally insulin-sensitive which helps to regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, many patients report that their sugar cravings decrease and they’re able to keep their blood sugar levels in a healthy range. This improves their overall mood and makes them more receptive to dietary changes needed for weight loss. Furthermore, many people who try the ketogenic diet notice that it encourages them to eat healthier overall, cutting out many of the sweets and carbohydrates they were previously eating – which undoubtedly helps to shed those extra pounds!
The Modified Atkins Diet
Another diet that has gained popularity over the past year is the modified Atkins diet. This diet is very similar to the classic Atkins diet, with a few key differences. First, there’s the inclusion of fats that come from plant-based sources like nuts, seeds, and oils. The second difference is that the carbs in the diet are replaced with fiber. The third difference is that the ketones produced during the metabolic process are not as beneficial as they are when produced through the use of a ketogenic diet – hence the modified Atkins diet is not considered to be a strict form of ketosis (though it is still considered to be a low-carb diet). Overall, the modified Atkins diet is a great choice for people with PCOS and hypothyroidism since it encourages weight loss while keeping the body’s insulin levels in check.
Advantages Of Both Diets
As you might have guessed, both the ketogenic diet and the modified Atkins diet have a lot to offer patients struggling with PCOS and hypothyroidism. Patients who try these diets report that they feel better overall and they notice that they’re losing weight more easily. Additionally, both of these diets allow for some flexibility with what types of food can be eaten – unlike some fad diets out there that forbid you from eating a specific food group or type of food. This makes these diets a good choice for people with restrictive dietary restrictions or allergies. Finally, both the ketogenic diet and the modified Atkins diet encourage the consumption of healthy fats and fiber – important nutrients for the body. These nutrients help the body in multiple ways, from providing essential fatty acids for hormone production and cell structure to promoting better brain function and preventing coronary heart disease.
The ketogenic diet and the modified Atkins diet are not the only two diets that have been shown to be effective for people with PCOS and hypothyroidism – there are many more that can be incorporated into an overall healthy diet plan. Finding the right food to satisfy your desired goals is the key to weight loss. If you’re not sure which of these diets best suits your body type, then it might be a good idea to consult with your doctor or dietician. They can help you find the right diet for your specific needs and goals.