Changes in Ghrelin and Glucagon following a Low Glycemic Load Diet in Women with PCOS

Abstract

Context: Altered satiety hormones in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) may contribute to obesity. Diets with a low glycemic load (GL) may influence appetite-regulating hormones including glucagon and ghrelin. Objective: To test the hypothesis that following a 4-week, eucaloric low vs high GL diet habituation, a low vs high GL meal will increase glucagon and decrease ghrelin to reflect greater satiety and improve self-reported fullness. Methods: Secondary analysis of a randomized crossover trial. Participants: Thirty women diagnosed with PCOS. Intervention: Participants were provided low (41:19:40% energy from carbohydrate:protein:fat) and high (55:18:27) GL diets for 8 weeks each. At each diet midpoint, a solid meal test was administered to examine postprandial ghrelin, glucagon, glucose, insulin, and self-reported appetite scores. Results: After 4 weeks, fasting glucagon was greater with the low vs high GL diet (P =. 035), and higher fasting glucagon was associated with lesser feelings of hunger (P =. 009). Significant diet effects indicate 4-hour glucagon was higher (P