Is Beans Good for PCOS? (Expert Answer)
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