
Hormonal Diet: Add These Foods To Your Breakfast For Better PCOS Management
1. Oats
Rich in fibre and slow-digesting carbs, oats help regulate blood sugar and keep you full longer. Their beta-glucans reduce insulin spikes and cholesterol. Top with nuts, seeds, or berries for added nutrients.
2. Greek yogurt
High in protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt supports gut health, which is closely linked to hormone regulation. It also helps manage cravings and builds lean muscle mass, improving insulin sensitivity.
3. Chia seeds
These tiny seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and plant-based protein. They help fight inflammation, regulate hormones, and keep digestion smooth which is great for managing PCOS symptoms.
4. Eggs
Eggs are a complete protein and a great source of choline, which supports hormone production. They help keep insulin levels in check and provide essential nutrients like vitamin D and B12, often deficient in PCOS.
5. Berries
Loaded with antioxidants and low on the glycemic index, berries help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Their fibre also slows sugar absorption, keeping insulin levels stable.
6. Avocado
Rich in monounsaturated fats and fibre, avocados support heart health and hormonal balance. They're especially helpful in reducing insulin resistance when paired with protein or whole grains.
7. Spinach or leafy greens
High in magnesium, iron, and folate, leafy greens support healthy insulin function and combat inflammation. Adding them to smoothies, omelettes, or breakfast wraps can enhance hormone health.
8. Cinnamon
This spice has insulin-sensitising properties and helps lower blood sugar levels. Sprinkle it on oats, smoothies, or yogurt for both flavour and metabolic support.
9. Quinoa
A plant-based complete protein and fibre-rich grain, quinoa helps keep you full and energised. Its low glycemic index makes it ideal for PCOS-friendly breakfast bowls or porridge.
10. Nuts
Nuts provide protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They help reduce inflammation and improve cholesterol levels, which are often imbalanced in PCOS. A small handful in the morning can support hormone health.
Incorporate these foods into your breakfast today to improve your hormonal health and better manage PCOS symptoms.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


News18
a day ago
- News18
Why Stress Hits Women Harder? The Hormonal Truth You Need To Know
Last Updated: Research has revealed that women are more prone to hormonal shifts due to stress. An expert shares how to restore the hormonal imbalance. Ever noticed a breakout right before a big meeting, or an irregular menstrual cycle during emotionally exhausting months? It's not just a coincidence. Stress doesn't just rattle your mind; it unsettles your hormones, too. Women, in particular, are more vulnerable to stress-related hormonal shifts. According to the American Psychological Association, women consistently report higher stress levels than men, often ranking them at an eight or above on a 10-point scale. But the real impact goes beyond emotions; chronic stress disrupts the endocrine system, your body's hormone command centre. Dr. Sajili Mehta, Consultant Paediatric Endocrinologist at Surya Mother And Child Super Speciality Hospital, Pune, mentions that when stress hits, cortisol (the fight or flight hormone) surges. While useful in small bursts, persistent stress keeps the cortisol levels elevated, knocking key hormones like estrogen and progesterone off balance. The result? Irregular cycles, weight gain, insomnia, mood swings, low libido, and even fertility issues. In some cases, long-term stress is linked to PCOS, thyroid imbalances, and the early onset of perimenopause. Dr Mehta mentions that this hormonal imbalance can be reset. Restoring hormonal harmony starts with small, consistent lifestyle changes: Dr Mehta says, 'Hormones don't operate in isolation, they mirror how you live, feel, and cope. Listening to that rhythm, and adjusting your pace accordingly, isn't indulgent – it's essential." Understanding the deep link between stress and hormonal health empowers women to take control of their well-being. By making small, intentional lifestyle changes, balance is within reach. First Published:


Hans India
a day ago
- Hans India
Sleep-Friendly Snacks That Help Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels Naturally
Late-night hunger can be tricky to manage—especially for those keeping a close eye on their blood sugar levels. Eat too little, and you might wake up feeling famished. Eat the wrong thing, and you risk sugar spikes that can disrupt sleep and impact overall health. The key is to choose foods that are both satisfying and gentle on your system. The ideal bedtime snacks are low on the glycemic index, meaning they won't cause sudden increases in blood sugar or insulin. Here are some tasty and wholesome snack options that promote better sleep without causing blood sugar swings: 1. Almonds A small handful of almonds is a smart nighttime choice. These crunchy nuts are low in carbs and high in fiber and healthy fats, which help stabilize blood sugar levels. They're also a good source of magnesium—linked to improved sleep quality. Keep your portion to about 6–8 almonds to avoid overdoing calories. 2. Plain Greek Yogurt Creamy and protein-rich, plain Greek yogurt helps curb hunger without raising glucose levels. With low natural sugar and a high satiety factor, it slows digestion and supports overnight metabolic balance. Avoid sweetened varieties and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavour. 3. Boiled Egg Boiled eggs offer more than just protein—they also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce melatonin, a hormone essential for good sleep. One egg can keep you full and assist with nighttime muscle repair while preventing blood sugar fluctuations. 4. Moong Dal Soup A warm bowl of moong dal soup is soothing, easy to digest, and blood sugar-friendly. Its complex carbs provide a slow release of energy, while spices like cumin and asafoetida (hing) enhance digestion. It's perfect for winding down before bed and waking up refreshed. 5. Paneer Cubes Fresh paneer (Indian cottage cheese) is a protein-packed, slow-digesting snack that won't cause blood sugar spikes. Just a few cubes, lightly seasoned with pepper or herbs, can help you feel full and support muscle maintenance overnight—without disturbing your glucose levels. 6. Chia Pudding Chia pudding, made with unsweetened milk and flavoured naturally with cinnamon or vanilla, offers a fiber-rich way to stay full overnight. Chia seeds expand in liquid, forming a pudding-like texture that's rich in omega-3s and excellent for glucose control. Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy a few spoonful's before bed. Choosing the right bedtime snack can make all the difference—not just for your sleep, but also for your overall metabolic health. These options deliver on both taste and nutrition, so you can rest easy knowing your blood sugar is in check.


The Hindu
a day ago
- The Hindu
How genetic factors influence the onset and progression of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a multifaceted endocrine-metabolic condition, is increasingly being recognised as not only a reproductive disorder but also a genetic and lifestyle-driven health challenge that affects a growing number of women across India. While clinical attention has often centred around irregular periods and infertility, recent studies and clinical experiences point to the crucial and often overlooked hereditary nature of this condition. Affecting an estimated 5 to 20 % of women of reproductive age in India, PCOS is now understood to be a spectrum disorder -- presenting differently across individuals. According to Dakshayani D., head of obstetrics and gynaecology at MGM Healthcare, Chennai, PCOS is a 'multisystemic pathology,' often seen with irregular cycles, weight gain, hirsutism (excessive growth of dark, coarse hair in women in a male-like pattern, typically on the face, chest and back), acanthosis nigricans (a skin condition characterised by dark, velvety and thickened patches of skin, often found in body folds like the neck, armpits and groin) and in some cases, infertility. She notes that some women may show classical ultrasound findings of multiple peripheral ovarian cysts and increased ovarian volume, while others may have no cysts at all. 'PCOS is not a uniform disease; it manifests differently from lean PCOS to obese PCOS with symptoms such as male-pattern hair growth, scanty or heavy bleeding and insulin resistance varying in severity,' she adds. The genetic element The strong familial clustering of PCOS has led clinicians to view genetics as a significant component in its development. 'There is strong clinical evidence that the condition runs in families,' says R.K. Vidhyalakshmi, lead consultant in obstetrics and gynaecology at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai. 'First-degree relatives -- mothers, sisters and daughters have a significantly increased risk.' Genomic studies support these clinical observations. Variants in genes such as CYP11a, CYP17, CYP19, INSR, LHR, FSHR, and DENND1A -- all involved in steroid hormone synthesis and ovarian function have been identified in women with PCOS. 'PCOS is a polygenic disorder with no single causative gene,' explains Mannan Gupta, chairman, department of obstetrics and gynaecology at Elantis Healthcare, New Delhi. 'Instead, several gene variants act together with environmental triggers.' Sapna Raina, clinical lead at Narayana Health City, notes that the risk of developing PCOS in women with a family history can be as high as 25–50 %, further underscoring the need for early surveillance in adolescent girls with known familial risk. Early recognition is key Given its variable presentation, early detection of PCOS often depends on clinical vigilance and awareness of familial risk. Dhivya Sharona, consultant gynaecologist at Rela Hospital, Chennai, stresses the need to distinguish PCOS from PCOD -- the latter being a condition limited to ovulatory dysfunction. 'PCOS is broader, and includes metabolic and androgenic symptoms even in the absence of ovarian cysts.' She highlights the increasing prevalence among young Indian women, attributing it to a combination of genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors such as poor dietary habits, high stress and sedentary behaviour. Hormonal screening -- including LH, FSH, AMH, testosterone, prolactin, estradiol, DHEAS, TSH and progesterone -- along with imaging (preferably 3D ultrasonography), enables more accurate assessment of ovarian morphology. '3D USG offers a reliable view of stromal volume and blood flow, which are critical in PCOS evaluation,' adds Dr. Dakshayani. Lifestyle intervention and preventive care Despite its hereditary links, PCOS is highly modifiable through early lifestyle adjustments. 'Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding refined carbohydrates, and engaging in regular physical activity can delay or even prevent the onset of symptoms in at-risk individuals,' says Dr. Gupta. He also recommends stress management, sleep hygiene, and periodic hormonal evaluation for adolescent girls with family history. 'Even a 5–10% weight loss can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve insulin sensitivity,' says Dr. Vidhyalakshmi, adding that prevention starts with education and personalised counselling. Dr. Raina stresses early behavioural interventions in families known to carry a genetic risk. 'Families often share not just genes but habits. Encouraging healthier food choices, reducing processed food intake and promoting physical activity from adolescence can alter outcomes significantly.' Emerging therapies and personalised approaches As understanding of PCOS deepens, treatment is moving towards individualised care models. 'Pharmacogenomics and polygenic risk scoring are being explored to customise treatment based on genetic profiles,' notes Dr. Gupta. 'This will enable clinicians to predict which patients are likely to respond better to specific hormonal or metabolic therapies.' For hirsutism, Dr. Sharona recommends laser hair reduction for long-term improvement, though medications like spironolactone, finasteride and Eflornithine-based topical creams can offer temporary relief. Therapies such as metformin, myoinositols, oral contraceptives and ovulation-inducing agents like Clomiphene, Letrozole and gonadotrophins are tailored based on whether the primary concern is infertility, metabolic imbalance, or hyperandrogenism.'There's no universal treatment for PCOS -- each patient's symptoms and hormonal profile guide the management,' emphasises Dr. Sharona. Despite its high prevalence, PCOS remains underdiagnosed and underreported. 'The social stigma and silence around menstrual health contributes to delays in diagnosis,' says Dr. Raina. 'It is time we normalise conversations around PCOS within families and schools.' With clinical evidence pointing strongly towards hereditary transmission, clinicians believe that family history must be considered a key diagnostic tool -- not just a background detail. By raising awareness, integrating preventive care early and leveraging advances in genetic research, it may be possible to change the trajectory of PCOS for future generations.