Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder characterized by an increase in androgen levels in women. This common problem results from the development of cysts in the ovaries, which hampers its proper functioning.
PCOS manifests different symptoms in women, but the common ones include irregular periods, excessive body hair (hirsutism), and hair thinning.
The increase in male hormones also causes hair shedding or hair loss from the scalp, medically known as androgenetic alopecia or female-pattern baldness.
This article discusses the different aspects of PCOS-related hair loss and its treatment options.
# Drink spearmint tea
Spearmint tea is shown to have anti-androgenetic activity. However, research on it is limited in various aspects.
While spearmint tea is reported to have better efficacy by users, you can also opt for spearmint capsules.
# Take inositol
Inositol, commonly known as vitamin B8, is a carbocyclic sugar.
Different forms of inositol are shown to be effective in PCOS treatment. Myoinositol helps improve the metabolic profile, including insulin levels in women with PCOS, while D-chiro-inositol helps control testosterone levels.
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Increase zinc intakeZinc can help control hair loss by blocking the activity of the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme that is responsible for testosterone metabolism in the hair follicles.
You can increase your zinc intake by consuming oysters, poultry, nuts, crabs, lobster, beans, fortified breakfast cereals, and whole grains.
You may also consider the use of zinc sulfate supplements and zinc-containing cold lozenges.
# Consume cinnamon
Cinnamon is shown to help improve lipid and insulin profiles in women with PCOS.
The use of cinnamon to help improve PCOS symptoms is also supported by anecdotal evidence. Moreover, it is safe for consumption and, therefore, can be safely tried.
# Have green teaGreen tea is rich in epigallocatechin that exhibits anti-androgenetic effects. Moreover, the antioxidant in green tea boost metabolism and control hormonal imbalance.
# Take help of maca rootMaca root is shown to boost estrogen production and improve ovary functioning, and it is commonly recommended for PCOS management by physicians in Europe.
Maca root is available in capsule and pregelatinized powder forms.
# Use N-acetyl cysteineStudies showed that the use of N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) can improve ovary functioning in women with PCOS.
NAC can be taken in supplement form or can be acquired through the diet by increasing the intake of lentils, beans, tuna, spinach, eggs, salmon, banana, and yogurt.