Medical Blog
PCOS Diet for Fertility — What Dr. Ankita Recommends Her Patients Eat
Nutrition is not a replacement for treatment — but for women with PCOS, the right dietary changes can genuinely improve ovulation, reduce insulin resistance, and support IVF outcomes. Here is what actually works.
D
Dr. Ankita Mandal
Fertility Specialist
PCOS is fundamentally a metabolic and hormonal condition. The dietary goal is simple: reduce insulin spikes, reduce inflammation, and support hormone balance.
Foods that help PCOS fertility:
- Low glycaemic index carbohydrates: brown rice, oats, quinoa, sweet potato (slow glucose release — reduces insulin spikes)
- High-fibre vegetables: leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage, bitter gourd
- Lean proteins: eggs, chicken, lentils, paneer, fish (improves satiety, reduces androgen effects)
- Healthy fats: nuts (especially walnuts), seeds, olive oil, avocado
- Anti-inflammatory spices: turmeric, cinnamon (shown to improve insulin sensitivity)
- Inositol-rich foods: citrus fruits, legumes, nuts (myo-inositol improves PCOS ovulation)
Foods to reduce or avoid:
- Refined carbohydrates: white rice, maida (all-purpose flour), white bread, sweets
- Sugary drinks, packaged juices, alcohol
- Trans fats: processed fried foods, biscuits, chips
- Dairy in large amounts (may worsen androgen levels in some women with PCOS)
Weight management matters enormously: losing just 5–10% of body weight restores ovulation in 60–80% of overweight women with PCOS. Dr. Ankita always pairs dietary guidance with a personalised exercise recommendation — even 30 minutes of walking 5 days a week shows measurable hormonal improvement.
Supplements evidence-supported for PCOS fertility: Myo-inositol (2g twice daily), Vitamin D (if deficient), CoQ10 (100–300mg), Omega-3 fatty acids. Always consult Dr. Ankita before starting supplements alongside fertility treatment.
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Small, consistent dietary changes compound powerfully over time in PCOS. Start with one change this week. At Maatritva IVF, our team provides personalised nutrition guidance alongside all fertility treatments.