Why it is harder for someone with PCOS to lose weight?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting 1 in 10 women of reproductive age. One of the significant challenges faced by women with PCOS is difficulty in losing weight.

Here’s an in-depth look at why weight loss can be more challenging for those with PCOS and some strategies to help overcome these hurdles.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects many women, and a big part of managing it is understanding how it impacts insulin in the body. Insulin is a hormone that helps control your blood sugar levels. However, in 65–95% of women with PCOS, their bodies don’t respond to insulin as well as they should. This problem, known as insulin resistance (IR), means their bodies need to produce extra insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.

• What is Insulin Resistance? Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells do not respond effectively to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. To compensate, the body produces more insulin.  

• Impact on Weight High insulin levels promote fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. Insulin resistance can also increase your food cravings, especially for carbohydrates. This double-edged sword of fat gain and increased cravings can make it harder for women with PCOS to lose weight.     

Does PCOS Slow Down Your Metabolism?

• Research suggests that women with PCOS tend to have a lower basal metabolic rate (BMR) compared to women without the condition.   

BMR is the number of calories your body needs to live and maintain basic functions. One 2008 study surveyed 91 women and found that women with PCOS had, on average, a BMR that was approximately 400 calories less than the control group (women without PCOS). The study reported that the adjusted BMR was 1,445.57 ± 76 kcal/day in all PCOS women compared to 1,868 ± 41 kcal/day in the control group.

Among the women with PCOS, those with insulin resistance (IR) had the lowest BMR, averaging 1,116 ± 106 kcal/day, while those without IR had an average BMR of 1,590 ± 130 kcal/day. These findings suggest a significant association between PCOS, particularly when coupled with IR, and reduced BMR. This implies that women with PCOS, especially those who are insulin-resistant, may have a lower caloric requirement for maintaining basic physiological functions.

While these findings are interesting, it is important to note that there have been other studies haven't shown any differences in BMR. STUDY 1 STUDY 2

However, this is really a case-by-case basis. If a PCOS client is struggling with weight loss they MAY need a slightly bigger calorie deficit.

Women with PCOS often face significant challenges with mental health, including higher rates of depression and anxiety. These issues are linked to hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and the emotional impact of symptoms like excessive hair growth and fertility concerns. These factors can contribute to emotional eating and make it harder to manage weight effectively.

For women with PCOS, managing emotional eating and their relationship with food is crucial even before focusing on weight loss. The condition's hormonal imbalances and associated challenges with mental health, such as higher rates of depression and anxiety, can often lead to using food as a coping mechanism. Addressing these emotional aspects and establishing a healthy relationship with food are essential steps towards overall well-being and effective weight management strategies tailored to PCOS.

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How to lose weight with PCOS

Check out part 2: