Do women with PCOS have a greater risk of being overweight?

It is currently not clear if there are any biological factors that could lead to women with PCOS having more difficulties with weight management. However, there is some recent research that hormones involved in controlling appetite and hunger aren't regulated properly in some women with PCOS. If this is the case, this might lead to some women with PCOS being more likely to gain weight and having more difficulty in losing weight.

This shouldn't lead to discouragement with weight management. Develop goals for yourself that are realistic, so you won't feel discouraged if you don't lose weight as quickly as others. Maximise your likelihood of weight loss by combining diet with physical activity, rather than just using a single strategy. While in the short-term you might have more difficulty in weight management, if you persevere and explore different options there is no reason why you can't find a healthy lifestyle plan that will help you manage your weight and PCOS symptoms in the long-term. And remember, no matter what your weight, prevention of further weight gain is very important.

What is the best diet for PCOS?

There are a range of dietary approaches that can be tried for weight management (weight loss or prevention of weight gain) in PCOS. When considering changing your diet to manage or lose weight it is important that you research the diet first. Ensure that the diet you are trying provides adequate amounts of nutrients, vitamins and minerals and is consistent with the Australian Dietary Guidelines.

Unfortunately, there does not seem to be any one dietary approach that is 'best' for women with PCOS. This means that if you have tried one in the past and did not find it useful for weight loss, there are other options available to try. Seek the advice of an accredited practising dietitian if you are in any way confused or concerned about which dietary approach is best for you.

For more information go to PCOS and diet

What diet and exercise approaches should non-overweight women with PCOS follow?

Not all women with PCOS are overweight. Lifestyle management is still important even if you are within your healthy weight range. If you gain weight in the future, this is likely to worsen your insulin resistance and PCOS symptoms.

Even when not actively trying to lose weight, adopting a healthy diet will also ensure that you are receiving a healthy intake of nutrients, vitamins and minerals and can reduce your long-term risk of disease such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Physical activity also increases energy levels, improves self esteem and reduces anxiety and depression.

There are benefits to both aerobic exercise and resistance training in PCOS. Moderate to high intensity aerobic exercise improves insulin resistance in PCOS even without any weight loss occurring. Resistance or strength training helps to build up muscle mass which can increase the amount of energy that you expend.

Content updated 26 August 2011