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  • Supplements aid PCOS: Support hormonal balance, manage symptoms like insulin resistance.
  • Key supplements: Myo-inositol, magnesium, and B vitamins can help to support hormonal imbalances.
  • Diet remains vital: Supplements complement, not replace, a balanced diet for PCOS support.

PCOS is an endocrine disorder, meaning that there are hormonal issues within a person’s body that lead to an imbalance. With many challenging symptoms, such as acne, weight gain, insulin resistance, and irregular periods, doctors often prescribe medication to balance hormones when diagnosing PCOS.

However, when it comes to PCOS, nutritional supplements can be highly beneficial. Ensuring your body has the right vitamins and nutrients can help support PCOS management naturally. It can be difficult to know which supplements to take for PCOS, so we’ve created this guide to help you find the best options.

What are the symptoms of PCOS?

Symptoms of PCOS can include any of the following:
• Irregular periods (less frequent than every 35 days) or absent periods
• Signs of elevated testosterone, such as acne or excess hair growth
• Numerous cysts on the ovaries
• Elevated insulin
• Weight gain, or difficulty losing weight
• Difficulty getting pregnant

PCOS can present with very mild symptoms that might go undiagnosed for years. On the other hand, some symptoms can be really bothersome, and you might want to consider supplements to help with PCOS.

Do people with PCOS need supplements?

PCOS is commonly treated with medication, but its symptoms can also be made more manageable with a combination of dietary and lifestyle support – such as including supplements as part of your daily regimen.

What are the best supplements for PCOS?

When it comes to the best supplements for PCOS, it’s important to note that supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet, so you should continue to aim for a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, and keep well hydrated. However, conditions like PCOS come from a hormonal imbalance, and adding dietary supplements may help to support hormonal balance. These are the best supplements for PCOS:

Myo-inositol

Myo-inositol has been studied for its potential to help balance hormones and support reproductive health. Research suggests that myo-inositol may support ovulatory function and egg quality, making it particularly beneficial for women with PCOS struggling with fertility. (Unfer et al., 2017). Since most dietary sources contain only small amounts of myo-inositol, supplementation is often recommended.

Magnesium

This is one of the most abundant minerals in the body, and magnesium is known to support sleep quality and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue . Therefore, it is a crucial mineral to ensure you have the appropriate levels of if you struggle with PCOS, to provide you with the energy required to get through the day.

Vitamin B

People who suffer from PCOS are often prescribed metformin, a medication to help the insulin you produce work better. However, this can in turn deplete levels of vitamin B12, which can affect your energy levels(Sayedali et al, 2023). So for those prescribed metformin, a vitamin B12 supplement may be one to consider. Also vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity and vitamin B5 is necessary for the production and metabolism of steroid hormones such as oestrogen.

Berberine

Berberine is a plant compound that has been compared to metformin in its ability to improve insulin sensitivity. Research suggests berberine may help regulate glucose metabolism, support healthy inflammation, and support weight management in PCOS. (Dong et al., 2012).

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s, particularly EPA and DHA, have been shown to healthy inflammation processes and improve insulin sensitivity in PCOS. They may also help regulate menstrual cycles and lower testosterone levels. (Mohammadi et al., 2012). Oily fish such as salmon and mackerel provide natural sources, but supplementation is a convenient way to ensure adequate intake.

Chromium

Chromium is a trace mineral that enhances insulin function. Studies indicate that chromium supplementation may help lower fasting blood sugar levels and improve insulin resistance in PCOS. (Lydic et al., 2006).

References:
1. Unfer V, et al. (2017). Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol in polycystic ovary syndrome. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol.
2. Sayedali E, Yalin AE, Yalin S. (2023). Association between metformin and vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes. World J Diabetes, 14(5), 585–593. 
3. Mohammadi E, et al. (2012). Omega-3 supplementation in PCOS: effects on testosterone and insulin. Reprod Biol Endocrinol.
4. Dong H, et al. (2012). Berberine in PCOS treatment. Metabolism.
5. Lydic ML, et al. (2006). Chromium and insulin sensitivity in PCOS. J Nutr Biochem.

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