An retrospective audit of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: the effects of a reduced glycaemic load diet

Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by hyperandrogenism and chronic anovulation. The aim of this retrospective audit was to determine the patient profile, including anthropometrics, biochemistry and symptoms, and to evaluate the influence of a dietary intervention in women with PCOS. Methods Data were collected retrospectively from dietetic and medical records from all PCOS patients (n = 88) who attended a dietetic consultation from July 2004 to July 2006. As standard clinic practice, a reduced glycaemic load diet had been prescribed, with energy reduction in overweight patients. Follow-up data were available for 59 patients. Results Fifty-eight patients had a body mass index (BMI) <= 24.9 kg m(-2) and 30 had a BMI >= 25 kg m(-2). Thirty-six patients, with a BMI <= 24.9 kg m(-2), self-reported central weight gain at their initial appointment. Over two-thirds of patients self-reported one or more of the following symptoms: carbohydrate cravings, hypoglycaemia, tiredness and hunger. At the follow-up appointment, BMI and waist circumference significantly decreased in overweight patients (P < 0.05). Seventy-one percent of women self-reported hypoglycaemia initially; this was reduced to 13% at follow-up (P < 0.01). Conclusions The audit indicated a low glycaemic load diet in combination with medication may contribute to an improvement in symptom relief in patients with PCOS.