Authors: Herriot, A. M.¹; Whitcroft, S.¹; Jeanes, Y.²

Source: Journal of Human Nutrition & Dietetics, Volume 21, Number 4, August 2008 , pp. 337-345(9)

Publisher: Wiley-Blackwell

Abstract:

Background 

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation. The aim of this retrospective audit was to determine the patient profile, including anthropometrics, biochemistry and symptoms, and to evaluate the influence of a dietary intervention in women with PCOS. Methods 

Data were collected retrospectively from dietetic and medical records from all PCOS patients (n = 88) who attended a dietetic consultation from July 2004 to July 2006. As standard clinic practice, a reduced glycaemic load diet had been prescribed, with energy reduction in overweight patients. Follow-up data were available for 59 patients. Results 

Fifty-eight patients had a body mass index (BMI) ≤ 24.9 kg m⁻² and 30 had a BMI ≥ 25 kg m⁻². Thirty-six patients, with a BMI ≤ 24.9 kg m⁻², self-reported central weight gain at their initial appointment. Over two-thirds of patients self-reported one or more of the following symptoms: carbohydrate cravings, hypoglycaemia, tiredness and hunger. At the follow-up appointment, BMI and waist circumference significantly decreased in overweight patients (P < 0.05). Seventy-one percent of women self-reported hypoglycaemia initially; this was reduced to 13% at follow-up (P < 0.01). Conclusions 

The audit indicated a low glycaemic load diet in combination with medication may contribute to an improvement in symptom relief in patients with PCOS.

Keywords: dietary modification; glycaemic load; insulin resistance; polycystic ovary syndrome; symptoms

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-277X.2008.00890.x

Affiliations: 1: The Surrey Park Clinic: Health and Hormone Clinic, Stirling House, Stirling Road, Guildford, Surrey, UK 2: Health Sciences Research Centre, School of Human and Life Sciences, Roehampton University, Holybourne Avenue, London, UK

Publication date: 2008-08-01

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