One of the most common endocrine disorders among women worldwide is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
It can happen due to several causes, like hormonal imbalances, family history, and genetics.
Besides these common factors, a person can experience PCOS due to several triggers, like gluten.
Although the effect of gluten on women with PCOS is still under research, it is always best to keep it in mind while maintaining a diet.
This article will discuss the connection between PCOS and gluten and the role of the latter in PCOS management.
What is PCOS and Gluten Sensitivity
In order to learn more about the connection between PCOS and gluten, it is important to know more about them first.
PCOS, also known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that is often characterized by cysts in the ovaries.
The cysts in the ovaries often lead to insulin resistance in women with PCOS, causing type-2 Diabetes.
According to a study, PCOS can also cause irregular periods and Hyperandrogenism (high Androgens).
On the other hand, gluten sensitivity refers to the adverse reactions one might experience on eating gluten.
A study states that gluten sensitivity can lead to Celiac Disease (CD) and wheat or grain allergy.
Celiac Disease is an auto-immune response of one’s body towards gluten.
Link Between Gluten and PCOS
Source: champpixs_from_GettyImagesAccording to a study, gluten is a protein that is naturally present in grains like wheat, barley, and rye.
Since it acts like a binder to one’s foods, it often results in weight gain in an individual.
Weight gain or Obesity often results in hormonal imbalance in women with PCOS, and thus, gluten can negatively affect these cases.
Gluten can negatively affect one’s digestion, leading to metabolic problems and weight gain.
Another research states that a gluten diet can often lead to Celiac Disease, which can cause chronic fatigue (one of the symptoms of PCOS).
However, the mechanisms behind the PCOS and gluten intolerance connection are still under research.
Role of Gluten-Free Diet in PCOS Management
Adopting a gluten-free diet can prove to be beneficial for women who have PCOS and gluten sensitivity.
This can help them in weight management with PCOS and can also reduce inflammation.
Since gluten sensitivity may be one of the causes of PCOS, excluding gluten from one’s PCOS diet can also help in reducing fatigue.
However, the effectiveness of a gluten-free diet in PCOS treatment has not been definitely proven.
Hence, it is always best to consult your doctor before excluding gluten completely from your diet.
Conclusion
Among the other triggers of PCOS, the topic of gluten and PCOS is one of the most popular ones.
Gluten often results in inflammation and weight gain in individuals, which is also connected to PCOS symptoms.
The weight gain may cause hormonal imbalances, which is one of the major causes of PCOS.
In some cases, women with PCOS might gain benefits from their symptoms if they maintain a gluten-free diet.
However, there is yet no conclusive research that shows that gluten and PCOS are connected.
Hence, it is always best to consult your doctor before excluding gluten completely from your diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary for all individuals with PCOS to eliminate gluten from their diet?
No, all individuals with PCOS don’t need to eliminate gluten from their diet. While some individuals with PCOS and gluten sensitivity may benefit from a gluten-free diet, it may not be the case for everyone.
Does gluten intolerance cause headaches?
Yes, gluten intolerance, particularly in conditions like Celiac Disease or Non-celiac Gluten Sensitivity, can trigger headaches as a symptom. These headaches may differ in intensity and duration in an individual.
Are there any substitutes for gluten-containing foods that can help with PCOS management?
Yes, there are substitutes for gluten-containing foods that can help with PCOS management. These include quinoa, buckwheat, almond flour, and coconut flour.
Can a gluten-free diet completely cure PCOS?
No, a gluten-free diet cannot cure PCOS completely. Although this diet can prove to provide some benefits in managing certain PCOS symptoms, it is yet inconclusive whether they are directly connected or not.
What gluten-containing foods should individuals with PCOS avoid?
Individuals with PCOS and gluten sensitivity should avoid wheat, barley, and rye foods. This includes bread, pasta, baked goods, cereals, and certain processed foods. It is also best to check labels for hidden sources of gluten while buying packaged foods.
Are there specific tests to determine if I have gluten sensitivity alongside PCOS?
Yes, specific tests such as blood antibody tests (for Celiac Disease) and genetic testing can help diagnose gluten sensitivity alongside PCOS. It is best to consult your doctor immediately if you are gluten-sensitive.
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