Dietary approaches for polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive summary of the effect of different dietary approaches on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Design/methodology/approach

This review represents the history of PCOS, the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. It also includes up‐to‐date research articles on different types of diets that have been shown some promising effects in the treatment of PCOS.

Findings

PCOS is nowadays considered the most common endocrine abnormality, with a range of 4‐12 per cent of women affected by the syndrome. It has been proven that diet, in addition to exercise and medication, plays an important role in the treatment of PCOS. The proper dietary approach for women with PCOS should focus on the PCOS symptoms and also improve weight loss, increase fertility, and decrease risks of cardiovascular diseases.

Originality/value

This paper provides accessible and comprehensive information on PCOS (since its discovery in 1935) to researchers, nutritionists, and women with PCOS who are interested in the effect of the diet on PCOS management.

Citation

Farhat, A.G., Mansour, M.B. and Attieh, R.W. (2011), "Dietary approaches for polycystic ovary syndrome", Nutrition & Food Science, Vol. 41 No. 5, pp. 326-343. https://doi.org/10.1108/00346651111170923