Intermittent Fasting as a Nonpharmacologic Strategy to Manage Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic disorder that affects 6% to 21% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ano/oligo-ovulation, and ovarian cysts. Insulin resistance is a common finding among women with PCOS. To effectively manage PCOS, efforts must be focused on improving insulin resistance, as it has been noted to play a major role in a multitude of life-altering and life-threatening conditions. Intermittent fasting (IF) is a dietary intervention alternating between fasting and feasting. IF has been shown to improve insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and hyperandrogenism, all of which contribute to the hormone imbalance and reproductive complications seen in women with PCOS. Current literature will be reviewed to demonstrate that IF may be a safe, nonpharmacologic intervention to manage PCOS.