Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a medical disorder that can cause irregular periods, acne, extra facial hair, trouble getting pregnant, weight gain and obesity. People with this condition also are at increased risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes.
And it’s more common than you may think — approximately 5 to 8 percent of all women have PCOS. Most, but not all, people with PCOS have excess weight or obesity.
The good news is there are steps you can take to minimize the effects of PCOS and many of them begin in the kitchen.
A well-balanced diet, including non-starchy vegetables and fruits, lean protein, healthy carbs and low-fat dairy, can help people with PCOS get healthier and prevent complications. Elimination of saturated fats, processed meats and refined sugar is also recommended.
About the Presenters:
Allison Harrell is a registered dietitian nutritionist and plant-based chef who has been passionate about food and nutrition for more than 20 years. She advanced her knowledge by becoming a certified Culinary Medicine Specialist, certified in Weight Loss Management. Harrell believes that every time we eat, it is an opportunity to promote our health. She incorporates culinary experiences with a science-based approach. Her programs and tools make a positive difference in the health of our communities by instilling confidence and knowledge in the kitchen.
Omar Zwain, MD, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified, minimally invasive gynecologic and robotic surgeon. He offers women with fibroids and other gynecologic problems the best possible scientific evidence to guide and inform their treatment decisions, and minimally invasive solutions when appropriate. Dr. Zwain strives to provide excellence in gynecologic care through evidence-based medicine and some of the most advanced, minimally invasive gynecologic procedures. Dr. Zwain is fluent in both English and Arabic.
About the Food as Medicine Series: “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” isn’t just a quote from ancient Greek philosopher Hippocrates, it’s a framework to healthy and healing eating that’s more relevant today than ever. Join CHWB Chefs and AdventHealth physicians for this innovative program from the Center for Health & Wellbeing. You’ll learn more about the intersection of food and medicine, dive deep into the ways your food choices affect your health far beyond the numbers on your scale and learn easy recipes using new and interesting flavors and techniques.
