Dietary Pattern, Physical, and Behavioral Trends in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Context: Dietary intake and physical activity play a significant role in improving health parameters such as enhancing mood, strengthening visceral organ functions, and reducing the progression of chronic diseases. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial endocrine and metabolic condition that concerns women of reproductive age presenting hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Aims: This study aimed to assess the quality of life and dietary patterns in women with and without PCOS, which may assist in identifying the possible factors linked to PCOS. Settings and Design: The cross-sectional study was conducted Central Research Laboratory, K. S. Hegde Medical Academy, KSHEMA-IVF Unit and Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department of Justice K. S. Hegde Charitable Hospital, Mangalore. Methods: With the sample size of 45 (23 women with PCOS diagnosed based on Rotterdam criteria and 20 women as healthy control aged between 18 and 40 years), we investigated the sociodemographic dietary intake, quality of life, sleep, and physical activity using a semi-validated questionnaire. Statistical Analysis: Obtained data were analyzed using Student's t-test and Mann-Whitney U-test with P < 0.05. Results: The results indicate that total energy, carbohydrate, protein, and total dietary fiber, including soluble dietary fiber intake, was significantly lower in women with PCOS than the healthy group. No clear relation was identified between lifestyle and PCOS indices. Conclusions: The present study suggests dietary intake and associated nutrient patterns may indeed play an imperative role in the management of PCOS symptoms, but physical activity and quality of life may need further investigation.