Effect of a 5:2 intermittent fasting diet on obese patients with polycystic ovary syndrome
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By
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March 18, 2026
Objective:
To investigate the effects of a 12-week 5:2 intermittent fasting diet with meal replacement on body weight, metabolic, and endocrine markers in obese women with PCOS.
Key Findings:
- Significant reduction in body weight from 77.15 kg to 69.1 kg (P < 0.001).
- Decreased waist circumference and BMI.
- Significant reduction in insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (P = 0.008) and 2-hour glucose levels (P = 0.025).
- 80% of participants experienced improved menstrual regularity.
- 50% showed improved ovulation frequency.
Interpretation:
The 5:2 intermittent fasting diet with meal replacement effectively reduces body weight and improves metabolic markers in obese women with PCOS, although reproductive hormone levels did not significantly change.
Limitations:
- Non-randomized design may introduce bias.
- Limited sample size and duration of follow-up.
Conclusion:
The 5:2 intermittent fasting diet with meal replacement is beneficial for weight loss and metabolic health in obese women with PCOS, warranting further research on long-term effects.
