Our lifestyle has changed in myriads of ways, be it our sleep schedule, the work hours, our eating habits or the overall balance. It’s all hanging by a thread on the tip of an iceberg. Well it’s time we changed that.
What is PCOS?
Poly cystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a common condition among women in their reproductive years. It is a condition where small sacs filled with fluids called cyst develop along the outer edge of the ovary. These might cause failure in releasing the eggs. It may cause irregular periods, weight gain, facial hair growth. It can also cause infertility.
Although it is unclear what is the exact cause for PCOS, many argue that a radical change in the lifestyle like inclusion of high amounts of junk food or stress might be a factor. Another factor might be insulin resistance. If the cells grow resistant to insulin, the blood sugar level goes up leading to more production of insulin. This fluctuation has also been debated as a cause. Besides these factors, it can be a hereditary condition.
How Does Virgin Coconut Oil Help?
Virgin Coconut Oil is one of the most accessible and cheapest products available that may ail the condition.
It has a high reserve of MCTs or medium chain triglycerides. Just like the name suggests they contain lower numbers of carbons compared to high chain triglycerides. MCTs are easier to absorb and have multiple functionalities :
- Controls appetite
- Enhances immune system
- Enhances fat oxidation
- Optimizes thyroid functions
- Lowers blood sugar
- Doubles as an antioxidant
- Contains antimicrobial effects
Never know coconut oil was this resourceful huh?
Now lets let’s discuss how it is specifically useful for PCOS.
- MCTs in coconut oil helps in regulating blood sugar level. Many women with PCOs face fluctuating blood sugar levels which may cause fatigue, dizziness and increased hunger.
- It is rich in HDL or high density lipoprotein, otherwise called “good cholesterol” as opposed to LDL or low density lipoprotein which might be harmful for your body. Maintaining a good level of HDL is important to protect heart health. Women with PCOS often face the risk of heart diseases.
- One of the effects of PCOS is hyperthyroidism. Coconut oil helps in promoting efficient thyroid functions and speeds up fat breakdown.
- Weight gain and increased appetite is often accompanied with PCOS. Coconut Oil can help curb your hunger and leave you feeling full.
Although we don’t suggest virgin coconut oil as a one stop complete remedy for PCOS, it is a helpful lifestyle essential that can ease the symptoms and effects. Proper diagnosis and medication, if prescribed, should be followed for an effective treatment plan.
Coconut oil is a common ingredient in our daily diet. However for maximum effect, it is advised to consume 1 teaspoon or 10 ml of Virgin Coconut Oil on an empty stomach first thing in the morning. If you find it difficult to consume it raw, best add it to your morning cup of coffee. Ingesting a large amount of virgin coconut oil right at the beginning might cause diarrhoea. Make sure to ease it into your diet.
