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Tips for Working with a Nutritionist for PCOS

Linda Mitchell, RD, LD

Balance is important

The balance of food you eat can be an important part of treating PCOS. Foods rich in carbohydrate, such as bread, pasta, rice, potato, fruit and fruit juices, and sweet desserts, are quickly broken down into sugar when digested. This sugar is then absorbed into your blood triggering your pancreas to release insulin to carry that sugar into your cells. Once inside, the sugar can be used for energy. Many women with PCOS, however, are insulin resistant, meaning our cells are not responding as well as they should to insulin, so our pancreas sends out more and more insulin to do the job. This excess of insulin is a link in a chain of reactions contributing to the symptoms of PCOS.

Remember — carbohydrate isn't bad

Carbohydrates are necessary for good nutrition, an important source of energy, fiber, and vitamins. Choosing carbohydrate-rich foods wisely and balancing your meals is the name of the game.

Examine your diet

Ask yourself the following questions as you change your diet.

• Will my hunger be satisfied?
• Will I get all necessary nutrients and calories?
• Can I make this way of eating a permanent part of my lifestyle?
• Just what is a balanced meal, anyway?
• What about special occasions when I want to splurge?
• Do I have other medical conditions to consider, such as high cholesterol or diabetes?

What is a registered dietitian (RD)?

The letters "RD" after a name attests to completion of academic and practice requirements and means this person is qualified help you. Becoming a registered dietitian requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree followed by an accredited internship program. RDs must successfully pass a national credentialing exam and show proof of continuing education throughout their careers. This qualifies the registered dietitian as the nutrition expert; your best source for reliable nutrition information. Registered dietitians are skilled in translating science into practical dietary advice to guide your food choices. RDs may be referred to as "nutritionists," but a "nutritionist" is not necessarily a registered dietitian.

Tips on finding a registered dietitian/nutritionist for PCOS

Dietary treatment for PCOS is a new topic for many dietitians. Choosing a dietitian with experience in type 2 diabetes and gestational diabetes is a good choice because he or she will be knowledgeable about insulin resistance. Speak with the dietitian before making the appointment and get an idea of what a counseling session involves. Specifically find out:

• Is the diet plan tailored to the individual?
• Is this dietitian open to lower carbohydrate diet planning?

• How much carbohydrate is right for me?
  Less carbohydrate than recommended for the general population has been suggested for PCOS. 40 – 50% may be a good starting point. Upon deciding the level of carbohydrate, your dietitian can help you design a meal plan for overall balance, including the right amount of protein and fat.
• What are some of the most concentrated sources of sugar I am eating right now?
  Cutting back on these foods is a great place to start.
• What rate of weight loss can I expect?
  This may take some fine-tuning over several weeks or months. Your rate of weight loss depends upon a combination of factors, such as your calorie intake and the amount of exercise in your lifestyle.
• How can my favorite foods fit in?