A REVIEW OF DIETARY MANAGEMENT IN POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME WITH EMPHASIS ON MENTAL HEALTH, STRESS AND CORTISOL REGULATION

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has become one of the most commonly occuring endocrine problems that affect women all across the globe. It affects more than just the reproductive system or the way the body handles sugar. This problem is now seen as a condition that affects metabolism and mental health adversely. It is shaped via hormone fluctuations, ongoing mild inflammation and the way the lifestyle. This review looks at the ways that PCOS operates inside the body, stating its pathophysiological causes, affect of stress hormones, role of diet in the management, and integration of psychological well-being and nutrition. The correlation of PCOS with hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance (IR), hyper-secretion of LH, hypothalamic inflammation, chronic psychological and physiological stress has been proposed as well. Other than that, the most significant dietary patterns, proper selection of nutrients, adequate dietary adjustments etc. that are crucial for the management of this syndrome, have also been covered. The impact of Mediterranean diet, Ketogenic diet, low GI diet, and DASH diet has been proven to improve the symptoms of PCOS drastically. The symptoms and condition of PCOS may worsen if there is an increase in stress hormones and also because of poor lifestyle habits. PCOS patients are three times more likely to face anxiety and depression, than non-PCOS individuals. Oxidative stress (OS) very negatively impacts metabolism and hormone production, as outlined. The progress and consequences of PCOS can greatly be impacted by Integrating nutrition with psychological well-being for its management. By synthesizing the mechanistic links between stress physiology, dietary intake, and PCOS pathophysiology, this paper articulates the case for integrated nutritional and psychological strategies in the long-term management of the syndrome.