The Impact of Selected Dietary Interventions and Supplementation on Metabolic and Hormonal Parameters in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.12775/QS.2026.64.73675Keywords
PCOS, diet, insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, DASH diet, Mediterranean diet, ketogenic diet, inositol, vitamin DAbstract
Background. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy
affecting women of reproductive age and the leading cause of anovulatory infertility. Its
multifactorial pathophysiology involves hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis dysregulation,
hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. Given its lifelong nature, dietary interventions
constitute a fundamental component of management.
Aim. To evaluate the impact of selected dietary patterns and supplementation strategies on
metabolic and hormonal parameters in women with PCOS.
Material and methods. A narrative review was conducted using PubMed and Google
Scholar. Keywords searched: "PCOS", "low glycemic index diet", "DASH diet",
"Mediterranean diet", "ketogenic diet", "inositol", "vitamin D", "supplementation".
Results. All analyzed dietary patterns demonstrated beneficial effects. The LGI diet improved
insulin sensitivity and lipid profile. The DASH diet exerted anti-inflammatory effects and
reduced androstenedione while increasing SHBG. The Mediterranean diet reduced the risk of
PCOS and type 2 diabetes. The ketogenic diet reduced body weight, HOMA-IR, and
androgen levels. Inositol yielded effects comparable to metformin. Vitamin D improved
insulin sensitivity and glycemic parameters. Omega-3 and omega-6 supplementation
positively influenced cardiovascular risk and demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusions. Dietary modification is an effective component of PCOS management. The
DASH diet may offer the most consistent benefit; however, recommendations should be
individualized.
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