A Comparison of a PULSE Diet and the TLC Diet on Reproductive, Metabolic Parameters in Women with PCOS

A Comparison of a Pulse-Based Diet and the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Diet on Reproductive and Metabolic Parameters in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The main objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of a lifestyle program for women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The investigators want to assess the efficacy of a pulse-based diet (i.e. a diet that contains lentils, chick-peas, and beans) on the clinical features, biochemical, and hormonal parameters of PCOS compared to the healthy therapeutic lifestyle changes diet.

The main objective of the study is to identify the effect of pulses on a range of PCOS and metabolic syndrome features. In this parallel clinical trial, 110 (18-35 years old) women with PCOS will be recruited. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a pulse-based diet or a therapeutic lifestyle changes-based diet. The effect of a pulse-based diet on a range of reproductive and metabolic parameters will be evaluated. The results of this study are anticipated to evaluate the therapeutic merits of a pulse-based diet for women with PCOS which would influence dietary guidelines.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female
• Diagnosis of PCOS in addition to insulin resistance (Homeostasis model assessment (HOMA)-insulin resistance index ≥ 2).
• Aged 18-35 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Individuals that are Keto diet, vegetarian, pregnant, lactating, class 2 obese (body mass index (BMI) ≥35) current smoker, or if they have diabetes, cardiovascular, kidney, liver, or hormonal disease.
• Individuals taking any medication or supplementation known to affect lipid, glucose, or hormone levels, and/or body weight for at least the last 3 months.
• Any individual who has an allergy or intolerance to pulses.