Entrepreneur Poorna Patel has shared her battle with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) during her teenage years. “At 13½, I had cysts the size of melons on my ovary and needed surgery. The only treatment for PCOD at that time was birth control pills, which were not as advanced as they are now. The conventional pills caused me to gain weight from 55 kilos to 109 kilos after surgery. It was a real struggle,” Patel disclosed in an interview with Rohit Roy on his podcast.

She continued, “While everyone else enjoyed life, going to movies and shopping for clothes, I was struggling to find size 18 jeans in the US. I became quite isolated. Despite dieting and exercising, the weight wouldn’t come off. It wasn’t until I stopped the medication that I began to see progress. That period was a deep-rooted fear from my childhood.”

Understanding the link between weight gain and PCOD:

Dr. Swati Gaikwad, consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital in Pune, explained that insulin resistance plays a significant role in weight gain associated with PCOD. “Insulin resistance hampers the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, which regulates blood sugar levels. This can lead to increased insulin production, heightened appetite, and fat storage,” Dr. Gaikwad said.

While minor weight fluctuations (up to 2 kg) might be due to factors like water retention or dietary changes, substantial weight gain is often linked to insulin resistance. “Managing this condition through insulin sensitizers and regular exercise can help control weight,” Dr. Gaikwad added.

Effective Strategies for Managing Weight with PCOD

To address weight gain associated with PCOD, consider these proactive lifestyle changes:

• Nutritional Adjustments: Avoid processed foods high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Regular Exercise: Integrate physical activity into your daily routine. Activities such as cardio, strength training, and yoga can enhance metabolism and help manage weight.
• Lifestyle Changes: Prioritize stress management, ensure adequate sleep, and focus on overall well-being to support a healthy weight.

By tackling insulin resistance and adopting these lifestyle changes, individuals with PCOD can effectively manage their weight and improve their overall quality of life.