What is the Origin of PCOS and Fasting?

PCOS is a syndrome recognized in the early 20th century, though its metabolic roots, including insulin resistance, have been increasingly understood in recent decades. The link to fasting stems from established metabolic research showing that periods of caloric restriction can improve glucose homeostasis and reduce hyperinsulinemia. Applying this nutritional strategy to PCOS aims to address the core metabolic dysregulation inherent to the condition.

What is the Mechanism of PCOS and Fasting?

The primary mechanism of fasting relevant to PCOS is the reduction of circulating insulin levels. In PCOS, chronic hyperinsulinemia stimulates the ovarian theca cells to overproduce androgens, contributing to the hyperandrogenism. By lowering insulin levels, fasting can decrease this ovarian stimulation, potentially improving ovulatory function and reducing androgen excess. Furthermore, fasting may enhance insulin receptor sensitivity, breaking the vicious cycle of insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism that defines the syndrome.

PCOS and Fasting ∞ Area

PCOS and Fasting

Meaning

PCOS and fasting describes the clinical and physiological relationship between Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction, and the practice of therapeutic fasting or time-restricted eating. Fasting protocols are often explored as a non-pharmacological intervention for PCOS due to their potential to improve key metabolic markers, particularly insulin sensitivity, which is a major underlying driver of the syndrome’s pathology. The impact of fasting on reproductive hormones and overall endocrine balance in PCOS patients is an active area of clinical research.