Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil, and they are famous as supplements in many conditions ranging from heart disease to arthritis. So it is no surprise that they are also useful in PCOS. Studies have shown that they increase levels of SHBG in the body, and therefore reduce testosterone levels . As a result, omega-3 supplements may help against excess hair growth.
Furthermore omega-3 supplements can improve blood glucose control and may also support weight loss. Scientists found a significant reduction in the waist circumference of subjects in a study following omega-3 supplementation.
Omega-3 also reduces levels of leptin in the body. Leptin is a hormone which is produced by fat cells, and its purpose is to regulate energy balance and weight. If a person has more fat, they have more leptin in their bloodstream. Leptin levels rise when you gain weight and fall when you lose weight. Normally when leptin levels are high, the brain responds by using more energy in the form of burning more calories.
However in obesity, which is a problem for many PCOS patients, the levels of leptin in the body are very high. This develops into leptin resistance, where the brain no longer responds to the high leptin levels. This means fat cells continue producing even more of this hormone.
The consequence of this is that weight loss becomes very difficult. This is because your body’s metabolism is low and your appetite is raised. Your body is essentially in starvation mode when it should be in fat-burning mode. However scientists have found that omega-3 can reduce leptin levels and leptin resistance . These effects make it easier to burn fat and lose weight, especially when combined with the effects of omega-3 on blood glucose control.
Additionally, omega-3 can improve fertility. Scientists have found that it can help to regulate the menstrual cycle . It can also reduce inflammation in the body, which helps with hormonal balance.