Ketogenic Diet for Women with PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with numerous clinical symptoms and a high rate of infertility. Several lifestyle/dietary interventions have been investigated to aid its management. A very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) has been showing promising benefits in obesity and in treating other metabolic diseases. The present study assessed the scientific evidence supporting this dietary pattern as an effective measure for treating PCOS and its associated metabolic disorders.

The study found preliminary data indicating significant improvements following VLCKD in body weight and composition, metabolic profile (glucose, insulin, triglycerides, total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and insulin resistance. However, the evidence was scarce.

The study summarized that Weight reduction in women with PCOS improves metabolic derangements and body composition. Yet, there needs to be more consensus on the ideal dietary pattern or macronutrient intake. 

Some evidence reinforces the potential role of the Mediterranean diet in improving infertility (along with other metabolic benefits) in women with PCOS. Under the professional's prescription and careful guidance, VLCKD, too, can be used as a potential intervention for the short-term treatment of PCOS.

Barrea L, Verde L, Camajani E. et al. Ketogenic Diet as Medical Prescription in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Curr Nutr Rep. 2023; 12: 56–64. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-023-00456-1