I have PCOS. Should I Go Gluten-Free?

Carbs. Sugar. Fruit. Bread. Let's just feel guilty about eating one more thing...hmm how about gluten? Gluten free is all the rage, so why wouldn't it spill into the PCOS world? Let's just stop right there. While individuals can certainly be sensitive or down right intolerant to gluten (think celiac disease), there currently is no evidence backing the claim that all women with PCOS are sensitive to gluten.

So where did this hype come from exactly? It has been suggested that gluten-containing products contribute to inflammation and therefore reducing gluten would decrease inflammation. Because PCOS is a state of low grade inflammation, the correlation was made that PCOS women should also avoid gluten. However, to date, there has been no research that supports the need for a gluten free diet for some or all PCOS sufferers. Most experts agree that if you find you are sensitive to gluten, by all means, avoid it!

Well, you're thinking, how do I know if I'm sensitive to gluten? Besides having gastrointestinal upset, some not so obvious signs can be brain fog, fatigue, psoriasis, eczema, and aches & pains. If you have any of said symptoms and don't know the culprit, it may be worth trialing gluten-free for at least 2-4 weeks to see how you feel. If symptoms improve, it may be a good idea to stay on the gluten-free train.

Unfortunately no definitive tests exist for diagnosing gluten sensitivity; however one test gaining huge popularity and becoming more widely accepted is the MRT food sensitivity test. This blood test analyzes 170 commonly eaten foods and food chemicals. In order to complete the test, it's important to work with a Certified Leap Therapist (CLT) to help you interpret results and guide you toward your new eating plan.

Out of curiosity, I attempted a gluten free diet years ago. While I didn't have outward signs of gluten sensitivity, my integrative medicine physician recommended it for fertility purposes. Two months in, I didn't notice any changes and reincorporated gluten back in. Admittedly, I found it challenging to stick to it 100% of the time.

Have you tried cutting out gluten? If so, what was your experience?

If you're confused about how to manage your PCOS and ready to learn, schedule a free phone call with me here. Can't wait to chat!

~Beth

Sources:

PCOS: The Dietitian's Guide

NowLeap.com

Marth McKittreck Nutrition

Beth Benesh is owner of Beth Benesh Nutrition, specializing in nutrition counseling for women with PCOS. She's an avid runner who loves movies, mornings, coffee, and her high-energy toddler...not necessarily in that order.

BethBeneshNutrition.com