Obesity, General Health

Impact of short-term ketogenic diet on sex hormones and glucose-lipid metabolism in overweight or obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

A recent study assessed the effects of a short-term ketogenic diet compared to a standard comprehensive intervention on body weight, sex hormones, glucose and lipid metabolism, and liver and kidney function in overweight or obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The retrospective study included 70 women with PCOS, divided into two groups: one received a ketogenic diet (KD) intervention providing < 50 grams of carbohydrates per day, while the other underwent a combined approach of lifestyle management and oral contraceptives. Both interventions lasted three months.

Key Results:

Body Weight:

• The KD group had greater average reductions in weight (- 34 lbs/15.48 kg) compared to the comprehensive intervention group (- 22 lbs/10.00 kg)

Sex Hormones:

• Both groups experienced significant decreases in luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, and total testosterone.
• No significant differences in estradiol and testosterone between groups.

Glucose and Lipid Metabolism:

• The KD group had significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, insulin resistance, triglycerides, and liver enzymes (AST, ALT), with no significant changes in LDL or HDL cholesterol levels.
• The comprehensive intervention group had reductions in fasting blood glucose and ALT, along with an increase in HDL cholesterol levels.
• The KD led to more pronounced improvements in fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and AST compared to the comprehensive intervention.

This study found that a short-term ketogenic diet significantly improves weight loss, hormonal regulation, and metabolic profiles in overweight or obese PCOS patients, outperforming standard lifestyle and pharmacological interventions in some areas. Ketogenic diets are a promising alternative for managing PCOS-related complications, although long-term impacts and adherence require further study.