The New Name of PCOS: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)
You may have seen the news on Instagram or Facebook recently that PCOS now has a new name: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). This is a significant step in the right direction, as it better reflects the endocrine, metabolic, and reproductive dysfunction that sits at the centre of the condition, rather than focusing solely on polycystic ovaries.
The previous name unfortunately implied that ovarian cysts were the defining feature of the condition, contributing to delayed diagnoses, a narrower treatment focus, and confusion for many people living with it.
The truth is, there's a whole lot more going on in the body than just polycystic ovaries. PMOS can involve increased androgen levels (seen on a blood test or through symptoms such as excess dark hair growth, acne, or hair loss), irregular periods (typically cycles longer than 35 days), insulin resistance, mood changes, and fertility challenges. It's a complex condition that affects far more than just the ovaries, which is exactly why this name change is such an important step forward.
Nutrition & Lifestyle Strategies for PMOS
Assess your carbohydrate intake - This will depend on your individual needs, activity levels, and the types of carbohydrates you're eating. If you have PMOS, there's a chance you may have some degree of insulin resistance, which means your body has to work harder to move the glucose from your bloodstream into your cells where it's needed. On the other hand, restricting carbohydrates too much can contribute to fatigue, low mood, and low energy availability. Aim to include whole food carbohydrate sources such as fruit, sweet potato, potato, pumpkin, and carrots with your meals, alongside a good source of protein, plenty of fibre-rich vegetables, and healthy fats like avocado or olive oil. This combination can help support more stable blood glucose levels and keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Move after your meals - This is one of the simplest ways to help manage your blood glucose levels after eating. A short 10-minute walk, some calf raises while you're making a cup of tea, or even a quick spurt of vacuuming or cleaning the house can all make a difference. Any type of movement activates your muscles, allowing them to take up glucose from your bloodstream to use for energy via the GLUT-4 receptor. It's a small habit that's easy to build into your day and can help support insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.
Include as many anti-inflammatory foods as possible - Low-grade inflammation is common in PMOS, particularly when insulin resistance, higher levels of adipose tissue, and hormonal changes are all part of the picture. Anti-inflammatory foods are typically rich in antioxidants, many of which come from colourful plant foods. Increasing your intake of berries, leafy greens, apples, avocado, extra virgin olive oil, salmon, herbs and spices, nuts and seeds, and even a square or two of >70% dark chocolate can all help support a lower inflammatory load and overall health.
Prioritise protein at each meal - I know, we've been inundated with the protein hype, so you probably don't need me to tell you again. But the focus on protein isn't going anywhere anytime soon, and for good reason. Not only does it help keep you fuller for longer, support muscle growth when paired with resistance training, and promote more stable blood glucose levels, but it can also help preserve lean muscle mass if weight loss is one of your treatment goals as part of your unique PMOS picture. Your protein needs will vary depending on your activity levels, body size, goals, and medical history, but aiming for around 20–30 grams per meal is a great place to start.
What about supplements? Supplements can be incredibly supportive in managing PMOS, but like everything, they should be tailored to you and your unique clinical presentation which is exactly what Clinical Nutritionists are trained to do. Some of my favourite supplements include inositol, magnesium glycinate, and vitamin D (where appropriate), but even more important than these is getting the foundations right first. Unfortunately, you can't out-supplement a poor diet or lifestyle, and we want to make sure your investment in supplements is actually worthwhile.
The good news is there is so much we can do to support clients with PMOS through targeted nutrition, lifestyle, and supplemental strategies. With the right approach and plan, cycles and symptoms can improve. You can find more about my approach for clients with PMOS here.
Yours in health,
Mel Docking | BHSc (ClinNut), BNutDiet, CPN
