Study of Food patterns among patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrom

ABSTRACT Introduction- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by a spectrum of symptoms, including polycystic ovaries, reproductive dysfunction, metabolic imbalances, hyperandrogenism, menstrual irregularities, and obesity. The multifaceted nature of PCOS, involving genetic, environmental, and lifestyle-related factors, complicates its diagnosis and management. Understanding the impact of dietary patterns and lifestyle modifications on PCOS can provide valuable insights for effective treatment strategies. Aim- This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the influence of dietary patterns and lifestyle modifications on the management of PCOS symptoms and overall health outcomes in affected women. Methods- An extensive literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed and Scopus, which produced 102 and 126 results, respectively. This resulted in a total of 228 articles. After removing 38 duplicates using the Endnote tool, 190 studies were screened for relevance based on their titles and abstracts. A total of 137 studies were excluded for being irrelevant to the research focus. 53 articles underwent full-text examination, of which 12 met the criteria for inclusion in the qualitative analysis. Furthermore, 4 studies were included in the quantitative meta-analysis. Results- The findings from the systematic review highlight that lifestyle modifications, particularly weight management and dietary interventions, play a significant role in the management of PCOS symptoms. Ketogenic diets and medical nutrition therapy were identified as effective dietary strategies for alleviating PCOS symptoms. Additionally, the review underscored the importance of incorporating physical activity, mood and sleep modifications, and herbal therapies as part of a comprehensive management plan for PCOS. The heterogeneity of PCOS poses a challenge for standardizing diagnostic criteria. Despite the use of various diagnostic frameworks, such as the Rotterdam criteria, there is a pressing need for more consistent and accurate diagnostic methods to improve patient outcomes. Conclusion- This study provides a comprehensive overview of the role of dietary patterns and lifestyle modifications in managing PCOS. The results emphasize the necessity for personalized treatment plans that address individual symptoms and lifestyle factors. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to better understand the long-term effects of these interventions on PCOS management. Healthcare providers are encouraged to consider these findings when developing treatment strategies, as they offer valuable guidance for improving the quality of life for women with PCOS. Further studies should explore the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying the response to dietary and lifestyle interventions in PCOS patients. Additionally, more extensive clinical trials are needed to validate the effectiveness of specific diets and lifestyle changes across diverse populations.