TLDR Probiotics and synbiotics may help with PCOS symptoms, but more research is needed.
This umbrella review of meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials assessed the effects of pro-, pre-, and synbiotics supplementation on women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The study found that probiotic supplementation significantly reduced insulin resistance and fasting glucose concentration, while synbiotic supplementation improved glycemic control, lipid profile, and hormonal parameters, though the evidence was of low to very low certainty. Prebiotics supplementation also showed reductions in waist/hip circumference, fasting glucose, lipid profile, and other PCOS-related outcomes, but with low certainty. Overall, while some beneficial effects were observed, the evidence was not strong, indicating a need for further well-designed trials to confirm these findings.
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February 2014 in “Fertility and Sterility” Women with PCOS often have hair loss, which is linked to acne or excess body hair but not to worse hormone or metabolic issues.
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January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
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November 2003 in “Clinical endocrinology” Insulin resistance is a key factor in polycystic ovary syndrome, but genetics may also contribute.
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May 2023 in “Current Nutrition Reports” Eating a Mediterranean diet and taking certain supplements may improve symptoms of PCOS.
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October 2022 in “Nutrients” Personalized diets, like the Mediterranean Diet and low carb diets, can help manage PCOS symptoms in obese women, and probiotics may enhance weight loss and improve metabolic health. More research is needed to find the best diet strategies.
December 2024 in “African Journal of Biomedical Research” Combining lifestyle changes and medication is most effective for managing PCOS symptoms.
February 2024 in “Journal of Education, Health and Sport” Different treatments for PCOS should be tailored to the individual, including lifestyle changes and various medications.
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January 2023 in “Metabolites” Changes in gut bacteria can contribute to the development of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), affecting metabolism, immunity, and causing inflammation. Treatments may involve adjusting these factors.
