PCOS

If you're struggling with the symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), following a nutritional eating plan may help improve your condition.

Chronic low-grade inflammation, which is [common among people with PCOS](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439), can lead to problems like heart disease and high blood pressure, which is why it's wise for people with the condition to seek out antioxidant-rich foods like tomatoes. [improve issues with insulin resistance](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/pcos-and-nutrition-dont-ditch-your-cultural-foods). Nuts are also high in [fiber and protein](https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/quick-start-guide-to-nuts-and-seeds), so they can keep your stomach satisfied and support better weight management. Sweet potatoes are often recommended for PCOS patients [over white potatoes](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/sweet-potatoes#sweet-vs-regular) because they're lower on the [glycemic index](https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/glycemic-index-and-glycemic-load-for-100-foods) -- meaning that eating sweet potatoes shouldn't make your blood sugar shoot up as quickly as consuming regular potatoes would. Omega-3s have a variety of health benefits, from fighting inflammation to reducing the symptoms of [depression and anxiety](https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/pcos-and-depression), three things that commonly affect those with PCOS. Additionally, avocados contain [several B vitamins](https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-avocados-health-benefits), including niacin and folate, that help with everything from regulating your metabolism to boosting your mood. And since fish is a good source of lean protein, consuming it may also help [improve blood sugar levels](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14522731/). [whole grains](https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/whole-grains/) -- rather than refined grains -- has several advantages for people with PCOS. Finally, consuming [cruciferous vegetables](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4718092/) has been shown to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, which is a serious concern for many people with PCOS. Plus, these kinds of foods can also [fight inflammation](https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/foods-that-fight-inflammation) -- something that's common in people with PCOS. According to the CDC, PCOS affects 6% to 12% of [reproductive-age individuals](https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/basics/pcos.html) -- or as many as 5 million people in the US. These individuals may experience [worse PCOS symptoms](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439) than people who aren't overweight.