A hearty breakfast could help with fertility in PCOS patients
A recent small cohort study published in Clinical Science seems to indicate that eating a large breakfast can have a positive impact on fertility in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Researchers from Hebrew University of Jerusalem and Tel Aviv University studied 60 women over a 12-week period. Study participants were aged 25 to 39 years, had a lean body with a body mass index <23, and had PCOS. The women were split into two groups and allowed to consume a diet of 1800 calories per day. The breakfast group consumed the bulk of their calories-roughly 980-with their morning meal and the dinner group consumed those calories with their evening meal. All participants kept a record of all food consumed during the study.
The breakfast group saw a significant decrease in AUCglucose (glucose area under the curve) and AUCinsulin(insulin area under the curve): 7% and 54%, respectively. Free testosterone decreased by 50% and sex hormone-binding globulin increased 105%. An increased ovulation rate was seen in the breakfast group. None of these measurements changed in the dinner group.
The study authors concluded that a high-calorie breakfast and reduced-calorie dinner leads to greater insulin sensitivity indices and increased ovarian cytochrome P450c17α, which helps reduce the hyperandrogenism resulting from PCOS.
To get weekly advice for today's Ob/Gyn, subscribe to the Contemporary Ob/Gyn Special Delivery.
Newsletter
Get the latest clinical updates, case studies, and expert commentary in obstetric and gynecologic care. Sign up now to stay informed.
Study finds pregnancy risks higher with ART in kidney transplant recipients
July 11th 2025Women with kidney transplants who conceive through assisted reproductive technology face increased risks of complications such as hypertension, preterm birth, and cesarean delivery, according to new research.
Read More
