The PCOS Belly Dilemma: Addressing and Managing Abdominal Fat in PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition in women that causes irregular menstrual cycles, excessive androgen levels, and ovarian cysts.
Its most common symptoms include abdominal weight gain, known as PCOS belly.
PCOS belly affects not only your appearance but also your overall well-being.
There are certain health risks associated with PCOS belly.
However, the good news is it can be reduced by identifying the underlying cause and managing it effectively.
In this article, we will provide you with a complete knowledge of PCOS belly and its associated risk factors to manage the situation carefully.
We will also help you with ways to lower the symptoms of the condition and a route for a healthier life.
What is PCOS belly
Women with PCOS generally gain weight more quickly in their abdomen than in other areas.
The appearance of PCOS belly can vary among individuals.
It is commonly described as large and bloated, but it can also be small and round in some cases.
The fat located deep inside the abdomen is called Visceral fat.
Having too much of this fat can also be a risk factor for other health-related conditions.
Subcutaneous fat is the fat that is stored beneath the skin and feels soft when touched.While Visceral fat is the belly fat surrounding essential organs, including the stomach, liver, and intestines.
Weight gain in the abdomen differs from normal weight gain due to inflammation.
The fat in the belly of women with PCOS may include molecules that lead to inflammatory reactions and bodily stress.
This can cause problems with insulin and glucose, making it more difficult for the body to use them effectively.
The connection between PCOS and belly fat
According to a study published by The National Library of Medicine, there appears to be a connection between PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and the accumulation of belly fat.
The research indicated that women with PCOS tend to have more abdominal fat compared to women without the condition, even when their overall body weight is similar.
This increased belly fat in women with PCOS is believed to be associated with issues related to insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels.
The study suggests that PCOS may contribute to insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin.
While both PCOS and obesity are commonly associated with abdominal fat, the factors specific to PCOS in the development of insulin resistance can possibly contribute to the accumulation of belly fat.
How to know if you have PCOS belly
There is no specific test that is made to determine whether you have a PCOS belly or not.
However, there are combinations of tests and assessments that doctors use to diagnose PCOS.
Here are the common methods they use:
Discussing your medical history
A doctor will gather information about your family history, diet, lifestyle, and menstrual cycles in order to diagnose PCOS.
Blood tests
A blood test may determine your body’s level of male hormones (such as Testosterone).
If body levels are higher than usual, then it might indicate PCOS.
Pelvic Ultrasound
The medical experts can check if you have multiple cysts on your ovaries by having a pelvic ultrasound.
Along with other symptoms, the presence of these cysts may confirm a PCOS diagnosis.
Assessing waist-to-hip ratio
The doctor may take your waist and hip measurements to see whether the ratio is more than 0.87. This can be a sign that PCOS is present.
Risk of having PCOS belly fat
Abdominal fat is considered the most dangerous type as it surrounds essential organs of our body.
Too much abdominal fat increases the risk of serious health problems like heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 Diabetes, and liver issues.
Other risks of belly fat in PCOS-afflicted women are:
- Women with PCOS have irregular periods. This can increase the risk of getting Endometrial Cancer
- In PCOS, having a higher body weight and elevated Testosterone levels can increase the risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. It is a condition where breathing is repeatedly interrupted during sleep
- Cysts on the ovaries of women with PCOS may disrupt ovulation. Being overweight can negatively affect fertility, making it tougher for women with PCOS to get pregnant
How to treat PCOS belly
We can manage or even reduce PCOS belly by bringing a few modifications to our lifestyle routine.
These ways are effective in treating PCOS and ultimately in improving its symptoms.
Low glycemic index diet
A low glycemic index (GI) diet is a way of eating that considers how different foods affect our blood sugar levels.
It ranks foods on a scale from 0 to 100 based on their impact.
Foods with a low GI have a smaller effect on blood sugar, while high GI foods can cause larger changes.
This means food with low GI doesn’t make insulin levels rise quickly or as much as foods like sugar or highly processed carbohydrates.
A low glycemic index diet includes grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, starchy vegetables, and fruits.
Limit processed foods
People with PCOS should avoid processed foods as they increase inflammation.
Fried foods, sugary snacks and beverages, unhealthy fats, and alcohol should be avoided to reduce the symptoms of PCOS.
Exercise
Incorporating exercise into the routine plays a crucial role in PCOS women.
PCOS patients have been shown to benefit from yoga as a way to manage their weight.
Walking, light weighted cardio, running, and swimming can help reduce belly fat.
Strength training exercises like planks and crunches help tone the abdominal muscles.
Medication
Metformin can be taken for PCOS women with a doctor’s prescription.
This drug will help manage the symptom of PCOS, such as weight gain and insulin resistance, which contribute to belly fat.
There are various other alternatives available as well.
Check with your doctor, as they will be able to suggest you the best medicine as per your health needs.
Conclusion
PCOS belly refers to abdominal weight gain that is commonly seen in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Diagnosing PCOS belly involves a combination of medical history discussions, blood tests, pelvic ultrasounds, and assessments of the waist-to-hip ratio.
PCOS belly can lead to serious health risks such as heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 Diabetes, and sleep apnea.
Lifestyle modifications like adopting a low glycemic index diet, limiting processed foods, and incorporating exercise can help manage and reduce PCOS belly.
Medications like Metformin may be prescribed by a doctor to manage symptoms and contribute to reducing belly fat in PCOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you get rid of PCOS belly?
Concentrate on adopting a healthy lifestyle to combat PCOS belly. Include a balanced diet, low glycemic index meals, and regular exercises, such as cardio and weight training. If necessary, consider taking Metformin under guidance from your doctor.
What does PCOS stomach look like?
The appearance of PCOS stomach may vary in individuals. A PCOS stomach can look bigger and rounder than usual. It may have extra fat and make the belly appear larger or bloated.
Is it possible to lose a PCOS belly?
Yes, it is possible to lose a PCOS belly. Adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet and considering medical interventions if needed can reduce abdominal fat and achieve a flatter stomach.
What are the best exercises for a PCOS belly?
The best exercises for a PCOS belly include cardio exercises like walking, cycling, or jogging to burn body fat. Strength training exercises such as planks, squats, and crunches are also important for strengthening the abdominal muscles.
WowRx uses only high-quality sources while writing our articles. Please read our content information policy to know more about how we keep our content reliable and trustworthy.
