Could Dry Jan help with your polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

A new study from Yoppie, the pioneers of personalised menstrual wellness, reveals that nearly half of women are unaware of the negative impact that alcohol has on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and how Dry January could bring benefits above and beyond a detox from the Christmas season. 

A survey of almost 3,000 women, commissioned by Yoppie, revealed that one in ten of us started the year with the good intention of cutting out the booze for the month of January. 

However, almost a quarter (22%) of those taking part have already given in to alcohol (18%) or are starting to feel the pressure (4%).

Some of them, however, might be wise to consider sticking with it. Not only does avoiding alcohol benefit a broad range of health factors, from better sleep to a less-stressed liver, but it has also been proven to help relieve some of the symptoms of PCOS.

It is estimated that one in five women are affected by PCOS, a female fertility problem that can impact the way a woman’s ovaries work and brings symptoms such as irregular or absent periods, acne and unwanted hair growth – not to mention significant physical discomfort. 

Despite many women suffering from PCOS, Yoppie found that half of us are unaware that PCOS and its symptoms are linked to our insulin (blood sugar) levels and so alcohol consumption can have a big impact. 

Half of women were also unaware that what we drink and how much can make their experience of PCOS much worse. 

Furthermore, 46% of women admit they consume an average or higher than average amount of alcohol. 

So what can you do to reduce PCOS symptoms while still enjoying a drink?

Why do food and drink affect PCOS symptoms? 

Women with PCOS typically have higher than average levels of insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas to help cells turn glucose (sugar) into energy. If someone is insulin resistant, as many with PCOS are, the blood sugar rises which the body tries to counteract by producing lots more insulin. These high levels of insulin can cause the ovaries to produce additional androgen hormones, which is where many PCOS symptoms stem from.

All food and drink consumption has an effect on blood sugar levels but alcohol in particular contains carbohydrates which are thought to affect insulin levels. 

Can reducing or cutting out alcohol help PCOS symptoms?

Nobody is suggesting that women with PCOS shouldn’t drink at all, but moderation is encouraged. In some instances, a doctor might recommend reducing alcohol consumption to relieve some PCOS symptoms, and certainly if related medication prescriptions don’t mix with alcohol.   

So, yes, reducing alcohol intake can reduce PCOS symptoms, but it’s important to acknowledge that PCOS is considered to be an incurable condition.

Other benefits are perhaps more important

While reducing alcohol intake can definitely help ease some PCOS symptoms, the biggest benefits are more wide ranging than this. In particular reducing stress on the liver and reducing the risk of depression, certainly among those who have a history of mental health issues. It is known that people with PCOS have an increased risk of depression, making alcohol reduction even even more important. 

What else can reduce PCOS symptoms? 

It is generally believed that the more one can improve their overall diet and exercise regime, the better PCOS symptoms can become, as it will help reduce the body’s insulin resistance over time.

Learn more about PCOS and its relationship with alcohol here – https://yoppie.com/blog/pcos-alcohol

Founder of Yoppie, Daniella Peri, commented:

“PCOS is a common condition that can have a profound impact on a woman’s body and, of course, mental health. From weight gain and hair loss to fertility issues, it affects one in five of us and has no known cure. That’s why it’s so important that people understand what PCOS is, why it occurs, and how it can be managed.

“With almost half of women stating they’re unaware of the links between blood sugar levels and PCOS symptoms, it’s clear that a little more education is needed in order for people to live their best, most comfortable lives despite a PCOS diagnosis. 

“We would encourage all women to read up on PCOS and, more broadly, the unique ways in which food and drink can impact the female body.”

Survey of 2,740 UK women carried out by Yoppie via consumer research platform Find Out Now (12th January 2021).