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Out of the many health symptoms fish oil supplements are useful for, PCOS is on the list. The severity of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) differs for everyone, but one thing is sure: it can be challenging to manage. Luckily, fish oil supplements have numerous health benefits that can help control the troubling effects of PCOS.
Why Choose Fish Oil For Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?
PCOS-induced period pain, weight control, acne breakouts, and more—omega 3 in fish oil is effective for all. It is important to note that fish oil supplements are not a treatment for PCOS. The health condition is in fact not ‘treatable’ by any specific medicine.
Rather, improvement in diet, physical activity, and other lifestyle changes help manage PCOS and its symptoms. And, one of the positive changes you can make to your daily routine to combat the debilitating effects of PCOS is adding fish oil to your dietary regimen.
What Is In Fish Oil that’s Valuable for PCOS Patients?
Before we delve into the specifics of best fish oil supplement and how it’s effective for PCOS, know what a standard fish oil supplement is made up of.
Fish ‘oil’ comes from cold water fish that store oil in meat and bones. To be more specific, there are eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—two omega 3 polyunsaturated fats. These fatty acids, when consumed, can enhance the function of various vital organs.
Since your body cannot produce omega 3 fatty acids internally, you need a diet rich in these. If you are looking to get your fill of EPA and DHA for managing PCOS symptoms, then fish oil supplements can be a more potent option than fish meat. Since a typical diet does not include fish very often unless you live somewhere with cold water fish abundantly available, taking fish oil supplements is a needed step.
Top Benefits of Fish Oil for PCOS
What changes does fish oil make in your body that ultimately lead to PCOS management? There are studies galore that support the consumption of fish oil for controlling PCOS symptoms, which include the following.
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Lower Insulin Resistance
One of the first tests you’ll get done to confirm a PCOS diagnosis in the insulin profile. PCOS causes imbalances in blood sugar levels as your body struggles to use glucose effectively.
As a result, there’s insulin resistance in your body, and higher insulin prompts the ovaries to produce excess testosterone, leading to infertility, weight gain, facial hair growth, and more. Fish oil can help, as it enhances insulin sensitivity, helping minimize the unpleasant effects of an ovarian cyst.
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Immunity Boosting Effects
Experts suggest that PCOS may have autoimmune origins. After all, the persistent nature of the issue points towards such a cause. It is possible that having an overactive immune system is the reason behind your PCOS diagnosis. But no worries, as omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil are helpful. These supplements boost your immune health as well as combat the health issues that are a result of low immunity.
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Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Fish oil supplements possess anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, they have the potential to treat chronic inflammation. The latter is of high concern as it is a harmful for both your mental and physical health.
In case you are agonized by this condition, as well as PCOS, there are more chances that you might suffer from hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance too. In order to reduce the risk of chronic inflammation and other health conditions, you should buy and consume fish oil, as per your healthcare provider’s prescription.
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Improved Reproductive Health
PCOS is a health condition that adversely affects the fertility. Therefore, it hinders the natural conception process. Fish oil supplements can prove handy for this matter as they comprise omega-3 fatty acids. They can improve the reproductive health of a woman. Also, nourishing related aspects like egg quality, ovulation period and fertility.
As per some studies, fish oil supplements have improved the fertility of women who are enduring the PCOS condition. If you are overweight, trying to become pregnant, and experiencing PCOS, fish oil supplements can be effective.
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Period Cramps Relief & Better Mood
Period cramps can weaken the body to a greater extent. In case you are suffering from PCOS, the pain will be enhanced. Luckily, one of the potential benefits of fish oil is that you may get some respite from menstrual cramps.
Fish oil also has mood-boosting capabilities. The combination of period pain and rollercoaster hormone levels during PCOS leads to mood disorders. If you suffer from anxiety and depression due to PCOS, fish oil supplements can help. Research shows that fish oil has a helpful effect on mental health.
It is apparent that fish oil supplements show promising results when used against PCOS. However, further research is still necessary to fully understand the long-term advantages individuals with PCOS stand to gain by incorporating fish oil into their diet.
How to Use Fish Oil for Managing PCOS Symptoms
Fish is a great source of the omega 3 you need for PCOS. However, you need consistent and specific daily doses of EPA and DHA—which fish meat alone does not supply. Fish oil is a superior alternative, possibly more effective than even eating fish if you go for high-quality supplements. As for making fish oil a part of your daily regime, here’s how you can gain the maximum benefits:
- Choose fish oil supplements that have DHA and EPA as the main ingredients. These two are the most important fatty acids for ovarian health.
- Make sure to pick the best quality fish oil supplements you can find to get the best possible dosage of EPA and DHA.
- Don’t forget to check the production and expiration dates. Additionally, check the label to see if the fish oil supplements have undergone third-party tests for potency and purity.
- Go for a minimum of 250-500 mg of EPA and DHA combined every day. However, you can also consider your age and any other health conditions besides PCOS for the perfect dosage.
Verdict: Fish Oil For PCOS – Yay Or Nay?
Fish oil supplements are an underrated asset in your PCOS management routine. Know that consistency is a key factor when you are taking fish oil supplements for managing PCOS symptoms.
That being said, don’t forget that fish oil is not a complete treatment for ovarian health or reproductive problems. Eating the right food, exercising well daily, and taking some time out for rest and self-care play important roles in managing PCOS. Use your fish oil supplements as a supporting factor in a well-rounded dietary regime and lifestyle, and you see a positive change in your health in no time!
