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Having Trouble Losing Weight with PCOS? Here’s What You Need to Know

Posted On: October 8, 2024

Having Trouble Losing Weight with PCOS? Here’s What You Need to Know

Weight loss has always been a challenging area for most individuals, and those with Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) know the challenge all too well. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that affects 8-13% of women of reproductive age, and as many as 1.4 million Canadian women. One common frustration with PCOS is how easy weight gain can be, or how difficult it is to lose weight. This challenge can be physically, and emotionally taxing, but it's important to understand how PCOS affects your body in order to begin treating weight gain from PCOS.

Lets dive into why PCOS makes losing weight difficult, strategies to address this, and explore how medical treatments like prescription weight loss medications can help.

What is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and Why Does It Impact Weight Loss?

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that occurs during a woman's reproductive years, typically ages 15-44. PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, insulin resistance, excess androgen levels (sex hormones), and cysts in the ovaries. Unfortunately, PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility in women, and diagnosed women often find it difficult to become pregnant.

While there is no known cure for PCOS, there are ways to improve some symptoms, such as lifestyle changes, medications, and fertility treatments.

PCOS weight gain is very common amongst those diagnosed, since they are typically less responsive to insulin or even have complete insulin resistance. As a result, the pancreas produces additional insulin, which can cause increased hunger and fat storage, and inhibiting the breakdown of stored fat.

How Can Weight Loss Improve Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Symptoms?

Research shows that patients with PCOS can see an improvement in insulin sensitivity, regular periods, and improved fertility by losing as little as 5% of your body weight. Weight loss can also improve other complications associate with PCOS, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea.

Why Does Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Make Losing Weight So Difficult?

Losing weight with PCOS is considerably more difficult than those who do not have PCOS, since there are hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance to take into account. Therefore a typical diet and exercise may not yield the same results. Medical intervention may be required in some cases.

Lets break down the factors that make losing weight challenging to those who suffer with PCOS:


Insulin Resistance and Blood Sugar Regulation

Those with PCOS usually have insulin resistance. Insulin resistance cause your body to produce more insulin to keep blood sugar levels stable. Since excess insulin can mean your body is in a constant state of fat storage, it can make it incredibly difficult for weight loss, and maintain a healthy weight.


Hormonal Imbalances

Women who have PCOS have elevated levels of male hormones called androgens, which can increase body fat, especially abdominal fat, making it more challenging to lose weight. Hormonal imbalances can lead to irregular periods and ovulation issues, which can add to the difficulty of trying to lose weight.


Higher Appetite and Food Cravings

Since insulin resistance and hormonal changes can increase appetite and cravings, especially for sugar high-carb foods, it makes it challenging for those who are looking to stick to a healthy eating plan, which makes weight loss difficult. Those who have PCOS often find themselves trapped in a cycle of sugar cravings, leading to overeating and weight gain.


Decrease in Metabolism

If increased appetite and cravings weren't bad enough, PCOS can slow down one's metabolism. This makes it changing to create a caloric deficit that is required to lose weight. Even if one is exercising and eating healthy, they may not see the same weight loss results as someone without PCOS might.


Tips for Losing Weight with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS weight loss can be a challenge, but that doesn't mean it's impossible. We recommend choosing from these science-based strategies that can help improve your weight loss journey:


1. Consume A Low Carbohydrate, High Protein Diet

Controlling your blood sugar with PCOS is a key factor in improving insulin resistance. You can do this through your diet, and low-carb diet that is high in protein and healthy fats can improve insulin levels, reduce appetite and cravings, which will help those with PCOS lose weight.

A low carbohydrate diet can stabilize blood sugar levels. which reduces the insulin in your body. This can help the body lose weight and help it burn fat storage more efficiently. As well, protein keeps you fuller longer and prevents satisfying cravings.

Focusing on lean meats, fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, and vegetables while avoiding processed foods and sugar snacks can be crucial for weight loss.


2. Include Fiber in Your Diet

Since foods rich in fiber can help you feel full longer and regulate blood sugar levels, it can aid in weight loss. High-fiber foods can include certain vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber can also help with digestion and prevent overeating.

High-fiber foods can include:

  • Vegetables (broccoli, spinach, kale)
  • Fruits (berries, apples, pears)
  • Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas)
  • Whole grains (quinoa, oats, barley)

By incorporating these foods into your meals, you’ll not only improve your digestion but also enhance your body’s ability to lose weight.


3. Practice Portion Control

Controlling portion sizes is necessary for losing weight with PCOS. As women with PCOS often have trouble regulating hunger hormones, it can be easy to overeat. Even when eating healthy foods, consuming too many calories can prevent weight loss.

A number of ways you can control your portions

Using smaller plates can trick your brain into thinking you’re eating more than you actually are.

Drinking plenty of water at meals and throughout the day can help prevent snacking and overeating.

Eating slowly can allow your body register what it has eaten and provide proper hunger signals.


4. Exercise Regularly And Focus On Weight Training

Exercise is crucial for managing PCOS and promoting weight loss. While cardio exercises like running or cycling are great for burning calories, women with PCOS can benefit even more from incorporating strength training into their routine. Here’s why:

Strength training helps build lean muscle mass, which increases your resting metabolic rate (RMR). This means you’ll burn more calories even when you’re not working out.

Weight training can also improve insulin sensitivity, helping your body process glucose more effectively.

A combination of strength training and moderate cardio, such as brisk walking, can be an excellent approach to boost metabolism and enhance weight loss. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week to see the best results.


5. Prioritize Sleep and Manage Stress

Getting adequate sleep and proper stress management are two factors that aren't always considered when it comes to weight loss, but they are especially important for women with PCOS.

Lack of sleep can interfere with hunger hormones like ghrelin and leptin, causing you to feel hungrier and making it harder to resist unhealthy foods.

Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which have been linked to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

To improve your sleep and reduce stress, try incorporating relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or yoga into your daily routine. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night and establish a bedtime routine that helps you wind down.


6. Consider Supplements

Certain supplements can be beneficial for women with PCOS who are trying to lose weight. Always consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, but the following may help:

Inositol: This supplement has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and support weight loss in women with PCOS.

Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that can help improve insulin resistance.

Vitamin D: Many women with PCOS have low levels of vitamin D, which can contribute to weight gain. Supplementing with vitamin D can help improve insulin sensitivity and support weight loss.


7. Work with a Healthcare Professional

Finally, it’s important to work with a healthcare professional who understands PCOS and can provide personalized advice. This might include a registered dietitian, endocrinologist, or personal trainer who specializes in working with women with PCOS. They can help you develop a sustainable weight loss plan tailored to your unique needs and challenges, and may even be able to recommend weight loss medications to get you started on your weight loss journey.


Final Thoughts on Losing Weight with PCOS

Losing weight with PCOS is certainly challenging, but it’s not impossible. Understanding the unique hurdles posed by this condition, including insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic issues, is the first step toward successful weight loss.

By adopting a healthy diet that’s low in carbohydrates and high in protein, exercising regularly (with a focus on strength training), managing stress, and working with a healthcare professional, you can set yourself up for long-term success. Remember, the key to losing weight with PCOS is consistency and patience.

If you’re struggling with weight loss, don’t get discouraged. With the right approach and a supportive plan tailored to your body’s needs, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health.


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