The Importance of Fiber w/ PCOS

Something not a lot of people realize about PCOS is the necessity of fiber! As you know, PCOS patients have a higher likelihood to develop diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, among other serious health conditions. You can in part help to manage these health conditions with fiber! Yes, fiber! It can help by slowing down digestion and reducing the impact of blood sugar on the blood. Fiber also make you feel full faster, which helps with potentially overeating. You can also potentially lower high cholesterol levels by eating more dietary fiber, as it binds to excess cholesterol. 

So now that you know this, what next? Well, get more fiber into your bodies guys! But how? Well, by dietary foods or with supplements. You can obtain fiber from complex carbohydrates such as whole-grain cereals, whole-wheat bread, brown rice, beans, bran, oat bran, barley, whole-wheat pasta, lentils, peas, fruits and vegetables. With any dietary changes, make sure that adding or subtracting any items work with your nutritional regime. If you are seeing a nutritionist, definitely discuss this with them before making any changes. If, for any reason you are on a restricted diet, consult your doctor before integrating high-fiber foods into your diet. Be sure to drink ALL THE WATER to aid the passage of fiber in your digestive system. We recommend half your body weight in ounces per day. E.g. if you weigh 200lbs, drink 100 oz of water per day. Also, add fiber gradually to prevent excess gas and flatulence. As good as it is for you, the embarrassment factor is still there with that!

If for any reason, you can't get in the fiber through dietary forms, there are supplements you can take. Consult your doctor & nutritionist before taking over the counter fiber supplements, as it could interfere with other medications you are taking or your dietary needs. Be sure to drink a lot of water with OTC supplements to aid in the proper passage through the esophagus.

So the takeaway, fiber is essential (if you are able!) for PCOS Patients! There are so many benefits to start adding high fiber foods to your diet, or a supplement if your dr approves. So talk to your dr & nutritionist about adding fiber into your routine. Start the new year on the right foot! 
-Jeni

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