Omega-3′s for PCOS

We know how important Omega-3′s are for our general health – excellent for our cardiovascular system, mood disorders, etc. But did you know that they are especially beneficial for us cysters?

Recent studies show that consuming Omega-3′s reduced free testosterone in women with PCOS.

(There are two types of testosterone in our bodies: Total and Free. Total is the total amount we have, free is the amount that is unbound and active in our bodies)

This study also revealed that Omega-6 may actually increase androgen (i.e. testosterone) levels. Omega-6 fatty acids can be found in the following oils, and should be reduced if not completely avoided: corn, soy, sunflower, and safflower oils.

You can find Omega-3′s in fish, obviously, however they’re also found in other oils such as flax seed oil. However, the fatty acids in flax oil have to go through a series of metabolic steps inside your body before they become the omega-3 fatty acids. The problem is that many PCOS women have defects in these required metabolic processes and not enough of the “final” omega-3 fatty acid is created (http://www.ovarian-cysts-pcos.com)

The benefits of Omega-3′s also include improving mood disorders (such as depression) and preventing heart disease. BOTH of which PCOS’ers are at a higher risk for.

Be sure to purchase your Omega-3 supplements from a reputable company. The oils must be processed correctly to insure you get a standardized amount AND its as pure and clean as possible.