Managing PCOS and Insulin Resistance: Tips for a Healthier Life

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is so common in India, that 30 to 40 percent of women are having this condition, leading to high glucose levels and increasing the risk of developing pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes. 

Insulin resistance is one of the major root causes of PCOS which requires careful management through lifestyle changes or medication to avoid additional complications.

What is the condition of PCOS?

PCOS is identified as a risk factor for developing diabetes. The symptoms in this condition begin before the insulin resistance. However, it is believed that insulin resistance is the contributing factor in causing PCOS, rather than the other way around. 

While the connection is known, the cause of the relationship between these two conditions is still unknown.

• Insulin doesn’t affect everyone in the same way. Some women with insulin resistance develop PCOS, while others do not.
• Weight gain is another cause associated with insulin resistance, altering the function of the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland in the brain and increasing the production of the male hormone androgen. 
• Excessive increase in androgen levels is an indication of female infertility and ovarian dysfunction, with or without PCOS.
• In a few cases,  insulin resistance can lead to miscarriage due to inadequate nutrition and support of the growing embryo.

What are the Symptoms of PCOS?

It is important to be aware of the symptoms because of the correlation between the two conditions.

Appetite changes

Insulin is an appetite stimulant, one of the reasons for frequent cravings for sweets and other carbohydrate-rich foods. This leads to weight gain, increasing the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, obesity, osteoarthritis and diabetes. 

Pre-diabetes or Diabetes

Pre-diabetes increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and other metabolic conditions. This condition can last for a decade, making the body sensitive to insulin. It can deteriorate energy levels, increase thirst and frequent urination. 

What is the Screening method?

People with PCOS need to undergo routine checkups for insulin resistance to detect and prevent it at an early stage.

There are a few screening tests that women undergo for insulin resistance:

• Fasting insulin level test: This test measures insulin levels after fasting. Research has shown that fasting insulin levels are a reliable indicator of insulin resistance and are a better marker than fasting glucose levels.
• Fasting blood glucose test: This test measures blood sugar levels after a period of fasting. Elevated levels may indicate the need for further tests to check how the body processes sugar.
• Glucose Tolerance Test: After the fasting blood sugar test, a specific drink is given to measure sugar levels at designated intervals, checking the body’s ability to process sugar. Inconsistent glucose levels indicate insulin resistance.
• Glycosylated Hemoglobin A1C: This blood test measures average glucose levels over the past three months.

While there is no cure for diabetes, it can definitely be managed and controlled with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. A PCOS victim should have good lifestyle habits to prevent diabetes but be aware of the prevention methods. 

Lotus Hospitals’ expert team is here to guide anyone through the challenges of PCOS and insulin resistance. Our specialists utilize the latest research and treatments to create tailored strategies that address your unique health needs, ensuring you receive the best care.