🥑 Ketogenic diets and polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age.

Recent research has examined the impact of ketogenic diets—high in fat and low in carbohydrates—on clinical outcomes in women with PCOS who are overweight or obese.

Findings from 10 different studies indicate that both high-fat and very-low-calorie ketogenic diets significantly improved blood sugar control, lipid profiles (cholesterol and triglycerides), and hormone levels, including luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and total testosterone, compared to standard low-calorie diets. The most pronounced improvements were observed with very-low-calorie ketogenic diets.

These diets were also linked to reductions in body mass index (BMI) and fat mass percentage. However, these changes were not significantly different from those achieved with standard low-calorie diets.

This suggests that a low-calorie ketogenic diet may offer additional benefits—particularly in reducing fat mass and triglyceride levels—which could positively influence female reproductive hormones.

🥊 Summary

High-fat and very-low-calorie ketogenic diets appear to improve weight, body composition, blood sugar regulation, and hormone profiles in women with PCOS. Nonetheless, larger and more rigorous studies are needed to confirm these findings before such interventions can be widely recommended.

🕙 Intermittent fasting and weight management at menopause

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, characterized by hormonal changes and increased inflammation that can affect metabolism, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being.

One common challenge postmenopausal women face is weight gain, largely due to declining oestrogen levels, which influence fat distribution and metabolic function.

Research suggests that intermittent fasting may help reduce visceral fat, blood sugar, and blood lipid levels. Specifically, intermittent fasting has been associated with:

• Hormonal balance: Improved insulin sensitivity, reduced cortisol levels, and increased levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a precursor to oestrogen.

• Cardiovascular health: Lower LDL cholesterol, reduced blood pressure, and enhanced vascular function.

• Inflammation reduction: Modulation of physiological pathways that decrease oxidative stress and systemic inflammation.

However, implementing intermittent fasting can present challenges. These include maintaining nutritional adequacy, ensuring proper hydration and electrolyte balance, timing eating windows appropriately, and coordinating with physical activity.

Despite its potential benefits, intermittent fasting may not be suitable for all menopausal women. For instance, it may pose a risk of low blood sugar levels in those with diabetes or temporarily disrupt menstrual patterns in perimenopausal women.

🥊 Summary

Intermittent fasting shows promise as a therapeutic strategy for managing menopausal symptoms and enhancing overall health. However, it should be personalised and undertaken under professional guidance.

🦴 Intermittent fasting and rheumatoid arthritis in postmenopausal women

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that primarily affects the joints, often leading to warmth, swelling, and pain.

A recent study investigated the effects of intermittent fasting on quality of life, clinical symptoms, and inflammation in overweight postmenopausal women with RA.

Participants followed an intermittent fasting regimen for 8weeks, consisting of a 16-hour fasting window and an 8-hour eating window. The results showed an average reduction in BMI of 0.8 kg/m², along with improvements in certain clinical outcomes related to RA.

However, no significant changes were observed in overall inflammation or oxidative stress markers.

These findings suggest that the benefits of intermittent fasting may be largely attributed to weight loss. Therefore, similar outcomes might be achievable through other dietary approaches combined with physical activity.

Nonetheless, in the short term, intermittent fasting may enhance quality of life through mechanisms independent of inflammation and oxidative stress, potentially contributing to reduced disease activity in RA.

🥊 Summary

Intermittent fasting appears to offer some benefits for individuals with RA, particularly in terms of weight and symptom management, but it does not significantly impact inflammation or oxidative stress.