IF AND PCOS

I have read a few articles regarding IF And PCOS, it was stated that IF may not be the best option when one has a hormonal imbalances as it may throw hormones out of balance and mess with menstrual cycle. I am 22 F with PCOS, and i was wondering if there are any women with PCOS here that gained benefits with Intermittent Fasting? Honestly, i am afraid to continue IF as it may worsen my PCOS symptoms. (I am on Day 2 of my IF, 16:8)

Answer

Actually it’s the opposite. I have PCOS and I have cleared the major problems through fasting. I am 47 and dealing with a lifetime of it. IF and fasting reduces insulin resistance which is a huge problem with PCOS. Please read the work of Dr. Jason Fung and Dr. Eric Berg regarding PCOS. I also take Myo-Inositol and my facial hair is GONE.

Answer

16/8 isn’t going to be a problem for PCOS. It’s a great tool if you have insulin resistance. I think it’s the sweet spot for me..

I did OMAD sporadically, I don’t advise that as cortisol is an issue for my PCOS and for me it wasn’t helping, I was crabby with unstable blood sugar and it worsened acne.

So just keep that in mind that if you get results, there’s no need to dive into one meal a day or prolonged fast. PCOS needs a gentle approach, with balanced nutrition. Protein is your anchor, fats your decoration, carb tolerance is up to you. I try to stay under 100g and throw a little extra in on the weekends during family time or before a run. So far, so good. I don’t even fast much on weekends, I still eat cleanish and am getting good results.