PCOS and Vitamins

I've researched what vitamins are suggested for those with PCOS. These are all the vitamins that were talked about the most in several articles. 



Cinnamon-
Once thought of as a gift fit only for monarchy and Gods, this spice is widely used in the 21st century. Cinnamon has shown to significantly reduce appetite when consumed daily. Cinnamon can help maintain blood sugar levels, which in turn can reduce sugar cravings and promote weight loss. There have been no reported side effects of consuming cinnamon for a prolonged period of time.

 Chromium Picolinate
Many claim that Chromium Picolinate can lower the instance of insulin resistance, can reduce carbohydrate cravings and alleviate signs of depression. Women with PCOS have a higher chance of becoming diabetic later in life. This is why Chromium Picolinate can be beneficial for women with PCOS.

 
Vitamin B Complex
Consisting of 8 essential vitamins; thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin, folate, B6 and B12, B complex has shown to be beneficial to women. Vitamin B complex can reduce symptoms of depression and increase energy levels.

 Biotin
Also found in Vitamin B Complex, biotin in larger doses can reduce hair loss and help lower blood sugar levels. Biotin is generally targeted to improving hair, skin and nails.

 Omega-3
Generally found in fish, avocado and nuts, Omega-3 fatty acids have shown to reduce inflammation. Omega-3 supplements can reduce the pain and swelling around the abdomen that many women with PCOS experience. Omega-3 is great for aging men and women, as it lubricates the joints and may prevent osteoporosis.

Inosotol
Sometimes known as vitamin B-8, inosotol reduced insulin resistance and improved symptoms in women with PCOS in a study conducted by Virginia Commonwealth University. A 2007 Italian study conducted by the University of Perugia and reported by lead author S. Gerli also found that inosotol given with another B vitamin, folic acid, improved ovulatory function and also raised high-density lipoprotein levels, the protective “good” type of cholesterol. The study, which lasted 14 weeks, followed 92 women, half taking folic acid only as placebo and half taking a combination of inositol and folic acid. The inositol plus folic acid began to ovulate in 25 percent of cases, compared to 15 percent for the folic acid only group.

 Folic Acid
In the University of Perugia study, folic acid, also known as vitamin B-9 was given along with inositol. The combination of the two worked better than folic acid alone to improve PCOS symptoms. Folic acid has a protective effect against neural tube defects that occur in early pregnancy, so women with PCOS trying to get pregnant should take at least 400 mg of folic acid daily.

 Vitamin D
The Yale PCOS Program states that vitamin D is given as part of their lifestyle management program to treat PCOS, because many of the symptoms of vitamin D deficiency also affect women with PCOS. Symptoms include insulin resistance, increased weight and increased risk of developing heart disease and diabetes. Both vitamin D and calcium are given to decrease insulin resistance and decrease PCOS symptoms. Yale University is currently conducting a clinical trial on the benefits of Vitamin D and calcium in PCOS.

I've just started taking these vitamins and I'll update you at a later time how they are working and what effects I'm noticing!