How does polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) relate to the ketogenic diet? With her PCOS, Johanna has been eating keto for the past 11 months, and she is certain of it.
Swedish native Johanna, 25, explains how adopting this dietary modification about a year ago enabled her to reduce weight and have better results with her PCOS symptoms. She also clarifies the reasons why, in her opinion, everyone who want to improve their health should follow the ketogenic diet.
For length and clarity, the interview has been slightly altered.
What would you say about your initial experience with keto?
It’s been surprisingly good. I feel like I’m much more focused, calmer, and productive all around! I have no plans to stop.
What has been the greatest benefit of keto?
The nicest aspect of my new lifestyle has been feeling happier and more energised.
About a year ago, I was diagnosed with PCOS, and strangely enough, the news seemed like a relief.
For several years, I had gained weight, felt fatigued, and struggled with worry. Although I had attempted different diets, I had never been able to maintain them over time.
Having read up on PCOS, I was inspired to attempt low carbohydrate eating. Adopting a ketogenic diet helped me achieve my goals of improving both my health and lifestyle.
Low carb has greatly improved my PCOS.These days, I have less unwanted hair growth, less worry, and my sexual urge has returned. I feel lighter in many ways, both physically and mentally.
Did you lose weight on keto?
Yes, I did! I’ve lost about 22 pounds (10 kilos).
Instead of weighing myself, I measure various portions of my body and take photographs to monitor my progress.
I was confused when, in 2018 and 2019, I began to acquire a significant amount of weight. Even though I didn’t think my eating habits were unhealthy at the time, going low carb made logical.
.
I want everyone to go through what I went through. It’s dreadful to be always stressed and fatigued – and if you can solve the problem through food, why wouldn’t you?
What would be your advice for those just starting keto?
Diet Doctor and low-carb influencers may be used as sources of food inspiration on social media. Seek suggestions and motivation for replacing high-carb meals such as pizza, pasta, and rice; don’t be scared to try new things!
Eating out has undoubtedly become the norm when there aren’t any decent low-carb choices. Simply put, cheating is simpler when this occurs. It’s really difficult for me when there’s sushi or Indian cuisine. That’s when it becomes difficult to resist!
To provide one example, I started enjoying around four cheat meals a week throughout the epidemic and quarantine. During such times, I would order sushi and Indian cuisine. After a few weeks, I resumed my low-carb diet and discovered how much I dislike the sensation of consuming too many carbohydrates. I always feel like my stomach is overly full and heavy after doing this.
In addition to how much keto has improved my PCOS symptoms, avoiding the too “full” sensation drives me to stay on schedule.