Why It's So Hard to Lose Weight With PCOS?

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PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) affects more than 5 million women in the US. Several studies indicate that around 80% of these women are obese or overweight. Why? Because PCOS symptoms are easy to mistake for something else. Women usually think of weight gain as a consequence of period food cravings, stress, or increasing physical activity. In reality, it is PCOS messing up with your body. No matter how much you try to control your appetite, you keep gaining layers of fat on your waist, belly, and legs. This results in an apple shape body and serious health problems like:

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Cardiac disease

So, if you have been diagnosed with PCOS, you need to understand why exactly is it so hard to lose weight. What is going on in your body? And why you should consider using PCOS weight loss supplements to be back on the right track?

Today’s post will answer all these questions in detail. Let’s get started!

Why Do You Gain Weight with PCOS?

PCOS is a common hormonal imbalance in women that causes excessive production of male hormones – also called androgens. This results in missed or irregular periods with severe cramps. But, androgens don’t only affect the female reproductive system. They encourage fat storage in your upper body, too. You’ll notice your shoulder, bust, belly, and waist getting larger than the lower body. The waist-to-hip ratio will change the most, where you’ll store more fat on your waist than on your hips or buttocks. This develops an apple-shaped body (which is typically found in men due to androgens).

Another problem triggered by PCOS is insulin resistance. The body releases insulin (a hormone) to transport glucose to the cells for energy. It also helps regulate blood sugar levels by storing the excess glucose in the liver.

However, in PCOS, your cells are unable to process these insulin signals. So, while it is being produced, it can’t transport glucose to the cells. This increases blood sugar levels and triggers the body to release even more insulin into the bloodstream.

The overall high insulin and blood sugar levels promote weight gain. You’ll experience intense hunger and sudden food cravings (even though you may have just finished a meal). To make things worse, your metabolism will slow down in PCOS. All the consumed calories will be burnt slowly in the resting position. As a result, this makes it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight.

How Can You Lose Weight with PCOS?

With so many changes going on in your body, losing weight is definitely a challenge for PCOS patients. But it's not impossible!

Here are 3 tried-and-tested ways to get rid of those fat layers efficiently:

• Exercise Regularly

Exercise is mandatory to keep your body healthy and fit. The CDC recommends all adults engage in physical activity for 20 to 25 minutes daily. So, the best natural way to lose weight with PCOS is to sit less and move more.

You can try a home workout from YouTube or get a membership at the local gym. Consider yoga, Zumba, and other light physical activities if workouts are not your thing.

But please note that exercise is not limited to workouts and yoga. Basically, you can do anything you like. This may include hiking with friends, cycling, jogging, swimming, etc.

• Change Your Diet

Since PCOS makes your body resistant to insulin, you can't eat like a regular person. No matter how strong those midnight ice cream cravings get – you must learn to ignore the voices in your head and act logically. You must control your diet!

Focus on consuming more vegetables, protein, and healthy fats. This will help you build muscles and provide the necessary vitamins and minerals.

But don't cut out carbs and sugars from your meals completely. Instead, switch to a low-carb diet in which you'll replace the refined bread and pasta with whole wheat versions.

• Try Weight Loss Supplements

Most weight loss supplements are FDA-approved and easily available in drug stores. You can buy them without prescriptions. These OTC medications will not resolve the weight gain issue caused by PCOS but will help lose fat quickly. This doesn't mean you should pick the first supplement that you find.

Instead, do your research and compare your options. Only choose the ones with good reputations, third-party certifications, and positive customer feedback. If you find it difficult to decide, ask your healthcare provider to suggest the best weight loss supplements.

How Long Does It Take to Lose Weight from PCOS?

There's no definite timespan in which you will lose weight from PCOS. Your time will depend on how much weight you want to lose and what techniques you use to achieve your goal. Usually, it takes a woman 12 weeks to lose significant weight (10 to 15%) on a very low-energy diet. So, you should expect 3 to 4 months of consistent efforts to get good results.

Summarizing...

In conclusion, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can make it difficult to lose weight for several of reasons. These include: a slower metabolism, increased hunger and cravings, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances. If you have PCOS and are struggling to lose weight, it is important to work with a doctor or registered dietitian to develop a personalized weight loss plan. 

There are several effective weight loss strategies for women with PCOS, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes such as stress management and sleep hygiene. With patience and perseverance, you can lose weight and improve your overall health.