pcos and disordered eating
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age.¹ There is a strong correlation between PCOS and the development of disordered eating patterns. Many individuals will engage in restrictive eating behaviors following their PCOS diagnosis, which can, in turn, lead to the development of disordered eating patterns and even a diagnosable eating disorder.
What Is PCOS?
The Endocrine Society defines PCOS diagnosis if two of the three following criteria are met: hyperandrogenism (high levels of androgen hormones), ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries.² Although the cause of PCOS is unknown, many individuals will present with similar signs/symptoms such as insulin resistance, weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, irregular menstrual cycles, and infertility. There is no known cure for PCOS, which prompts many patients to alter their diet and lifestyle to manage the various side effects of the syndrome.
Why PCOS Can Cause Disordered Eating
The current primary medical treatment for PCOS focuses on weight loss and dieting, both of which are known to cause disordered eating. In addition, there is a strong correlation between PCOS and the development of insulin resistance, which historically prompts many patients to restrict carbohydrates. This can typically lead to the binge and restrict cycle, which many PCOS patients are prone to. It is important for patients to understand that restricting any food is unsustainable in the long term and can lead to obsessive thoughts and behaviors around food. Providing patients with advice to avoid a specific food is harmful and can result in disordered eating behaviors. Rather than focusing on the restriction of particular foods or macronutrients, women with PCOS should consume a balanced plate consisting of protein, fats, and carbohydrates from various food sources.
Many medical providers are only concerned about eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors in patients with straight-sized bodies, which perpetuates weight stigma. It is necessary that women with PCOS are treated with an individualized approach, as the syndrome and its side effects vary from person to person.
Women with PCOS should be advised to seek medical support from healthcare providers specializing in eating disorder treatment and use a HAES treatment approach. If you are struggling, know that you do not have to choose between managing your PCOS and having a healthy relationship with food and your body. You can manage your PCOS and heal your relationship with food.
BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, located in New York City, offers free consultation calls to help you explore next steps. We provide in-person programming seven days a week and are in-network with UnitedHealthcare (UHC), Cigna, Emblem, and Oscar, with Aetna coverage coming soon. Support is available, and recovery is possible. Schedule a free consultation call with our admissions team here and stay connected with BALANCE on Instagram here.
References
1. Ndefo, Uche Anadu et al. “Polycystic ovary syndrome: a review of treatment options with a focus on pharmacological approaches.” P & T: a peer-reviewed journal for formulary management vol. 38,6 (2013): 336-55.
2. Legro, Richard S et al. “Diagnosis and treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline.” The Journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism vol. 98,12 (2013): 4565-92. doi:10.1210/jc.2013-2350
This post was written by BALANCE Dietetic Intern, Danielle Falchiere (she/her).
Danielle is a graduate student at New York University completing a master’s degree in clinical nutrition and dietetics. Throughout her graduate studies, Danielle has volunteered on the helpline for the National Eating Disorders Association and started her own fundraiser through Project HEAL, which is an organization that provides funds for those in need of eating disorder treatment. Through her volunteer work, Danielle has become extremely passionate about raising awareness around eating disorder treatment and recovery. With her degree, she hopes to specialize in eating disorder treatment and support her clients on their journey to recovery.
