TLDR Chromium, inositol, and omega-3 can help manage PCOS symptoms.
This systematic review and network meta-analysis assessed the effectiveness of nutritional supplements in improving polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms in women, analyzing data from 79 randomized controlled trials with 5,501 participants. The study found that chromium, inositol, and omega-3 were effective in improving lipid profiles and reducing insulin resistance. Chromium also improved follicle-stimulating hormone levels and antioxidant capacity, while soy isoflavones reduced oxidative stress. Inositol decreased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and curcumin improved cholesterol profiles. The study concluded that these supplements could serve as adjunctive therapy for managing PCOS, though it highlighted the need for more direct comparisons and large-scale trials to confirm these findings.
81 citations
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May 2019 in “Frontiers in Endocrinology” Melatonin may improve some hormonal and inflammatory issues in women with PCOS.
45 citations
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February 2019 in “Journal of Affective Disorders” Melatonin improved mental health and metabolism in women with PCOS.
49 citations
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February 2019 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Use "female pattern hair loss" term, assess androgen excess, treat with minoxidil and other medications if needed.
343 citations
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October 2015 in “Endocrine Practice” The guide recommends specific methods for diagnosing PCOS and various treatments for its symptoms, while considering the health impacts on adolescents.
1540 citations
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October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
989 citations
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August 2007 in “The Lancet” PCOS is a complex condition with major health impacts, needing more research for better diagnosis and treatment.
4809 citations
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January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
49 citations
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July 2021 in “Nutrients” Eating healthy, exercising, and taking certain supplements can help manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome symptoms.
August 2024 in “Indian Journal Of Clinical Practice” A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle help manage PCOS symptoms.
21 citations
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September 2017 in “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research” Chromium supplements don't improve insulin, hormone levels, or cholesterol in women with PCOS but raise testosterone levels.
68 citations
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January 2022 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” PCOS management includes lifestyle changes and medications, with ongoing research into repurposed drugs for better treatment options.
4 citations
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February 2019 in “Biological Trace Element Research” Chromium salts may help with insulin sensitivity in PCOS, but more research is needed to confirm their overall effectiveness and safety.
