EFFECT OF DIET AND EXERCISE ON METABOLIC SYNDROME RISK FACTORS IN POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME: A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL

Background and Aim: Metabolic syndrome (MS) is an independent risk factor for mortality from cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and is found in 43% of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a lifestyle intervention based on healthy dietary recommendations and exercise on MS among PCOS patients.Methods: University staff with confirmed PCOS diagnosis were recruited for the study. A total of 85 PCOS women were randomly assigned to receive either life style intervention (43 subjects) or general routine advice (39 subjects) for 6 months. Anthropometric and laboratory measurements regarding MS criteria, dietary intake of fruits and vegetables were assessed at baseline and after 3 and 6 months from the initiation of intervention in both groups. Physical activity level was assessed at baseline and at the end of the intervention.Results: A total of 69 subjects (34 and 35 in the intervention and control group respectively) with mean age and body mass index (BMI) of 32.05±6.09 years and 30.17±6.73 kg/m2 completed the study. Intervention resulted in significant reduction in weigh (p<0.001), BMI (<0.001) and abdominal obesity measures (p<0.05) as well as systolic blood pressure (p=0.04), and physical activity level (p=0.04) compared to the control group. Conclusion: This study revealed that the lifestyle intervention was able prevent or reverse the process of MS and improve infertility among women with PCOS as compared to the control group.

Keywords:

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome , Randomized Controlled Trial , Metabolic Syndrome , Diet