The management of polycystic ovarian syndrome often requires mitigating the harmful and negative effects of chronic low-grade inflammation and elevated oxidative stress. Low grade inflammation and elevated oxidative stress are hallmark physiological changes that can occur in patients with PCOS.
A recently published study looked at the positive effects of consuming 45 mL per day of concentrated pomegranate juice in patients diagnosed with a polycystic ovarian syndrome, (according to the Rotterdam criteria).
They measured for changes in inflammation, oxidative stress and various hormones. Compared to control subjects who did not consume pomegranate juice, there was a noticeable decrease in the concentration of testosterone in patients that consumed pomegranate juice every day in the treatment group.
This is a very important change, considering that elevated testosterone (hyperandrogenism) can drive the hormonal imbalance and physiological challenges that often present with Polycystic ovarian syndrome. For example, hyperandrogenism is a driving factor for insulin resistance, which in turn can then affect at quality and cardiometabolic health.
Utilizing our diet and lifestyle to give us an advantage in our reproductive health is often a missed opportunity for majority of couples seeking fertility care. Very rarely do I see patients who had, prior to our consultation, received any evidence-based guidance on helpful dietary modifications or guidance regarding foods that could support their treatment to help them close the infertility chapter in their lives.
This article is being shared as educational content and is in no way a replacement for medical advice or medical care, it is advised that anyone concerned about their Health should speak with their Naturopathic Doctor. Please discuss with your healthcare provider and only make changes to your medications regimen if recommended by your doctor and under their guidance and supervision.
Reference:
Abedini, M., Ramezani‐Jolfaie, N., Ghasemi‐Tehrani, H., Tarrahi, M. J., & Amani, R. (2023). The effect of concentrated pomegranate juice on biomarkers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and sex hormones in overweight and obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. Phytotherapy Research, 37(6), 2255–2261.
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