Short Answer: Beans are good for PCOS because they have protein and fiber that can improve insulin sensitivity and support gut health.
Beans are good for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which is a hormonal condition that affects your ovaries and can cause irregular periods, excess androgen, and polycystic ovaries.
In PCOS, your body has an imbalance of hormones that can affect your ovulation, fertility, and metabolism.
This can lead to various health problems, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer.
One of the key factors in managing PCOS is diet.
What you consume can affect your insulin sensitivity, which is how well your cells respond to insulin, a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Insulin sensitivity can help prevent or reduce the risk of PCOS-related complications.
To effectively manage PCOS, you should consume beans and other legumes rich foods like lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, and peas.
Beans and other legumes are high in protein and fiber, which can help you feel full for longer and reduce your appetite.
They also contain phytonutrients such as isoflavones and phytosterols which have antioxidant properties and help in reducing the risk of cancer and heart diseases.
Amount of beans and other legumes you can give you about 15–30 grams of protein and 15–30 grams of fiber per day, which are important for PCOS management.
Beans can improve insulin sensitivity by lowering blood sugar levels and increasing insulin sensitivity compared to other high carb foods.
They can also support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and the production of short-chain fatty acids in the colon, which are linked to better gut health and lower inflammation.
Furthermore, beans and other legumes are a plant-based protein source that is good for PCOS because they provide essential amino acids that your body needs to produce hormones and enzymes.
Because they are also low in calories and high in fiber, they can help you maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, which is a risk factor for PCOS.
You can eat one cup (171 grams) of cooked beans or other legumes per day safely.
More than that can cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea due to the high fiber content.
Stick to no more than three servings per week to minimize these side effects.
Also, you shouldn’t avoid beans or other legumes if you have PCOS to prevent these complications.
Because they have many health benefits for PCOS management.
Because they are easy to prepare and affordable.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing/dealing with PCOS effectively.
I always recommend my PCOS patients to follow a PCOS-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.