PCOS & Bariatric Surgery
I always start my initial nutrition consultations for bariatric surgery by asking, “What are your goals after surgery?”
The answers vary, but most people say something like:
“I want to reduce my medications.”
“I want to do more activities with my kids.”
“I want to bend down and be able to tie my shoes.”
One goal I hear often—especially from women—is:
“I want to improve my PCOS symptoms.”
If you’re considering bariatric surgery to help manage PCOS, you're definitely not alone. In fact, there’s even a Facebook support group dedicated to women pursuing bariatric surgery specifically for PCOS.
If you’re living with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), you already know how frustrating it can be—irregular periods, weight gain, breakouts, mood swings, and difficulty getting pregnant. To make things even more complicated, no one really knows why PCOS happens. It likely comes down to a mix of hormones, genetics, and how your body responds to insulin.
The Good News: Bariatric Surgery Can Help
For people with PCOS who also struggle with obesity, bariatric surgery can be a game-changer. Many women see major improvements in their PCOS symptoms within just one year after surgery—things like:
More regular periods
Better blood sugar control
Improved fertility
But here’s the thing: surgery is just one part of the journey. What you eat after surgery can make a huge difference in how you feel and how your symptoms improve.
Cut Back on Inflammatory Foods
PCOS and inflammation often go hand in hand. Reducing inflammatory foods can help your body feel better and function more smoothly. Try to limit:
Sugary snacks and drinks
White bread and pasta
Fried or processed foods
Red and processed meats
Instead, focus on whole, real foods that help your body thrive.
Try Inositol with Folic Acid
One supplement that’s getting a lot of attention for PCOS is inositol—especially myo-inositol. When taken with folic acid, it may:
Balance hormones
Improve how your body uses insulin
Help regulate your cycle
Many women report more regular periods and better chances of getting pregnant with this combo.
Add More Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are loaded with omega-3s—healthy fats that fight inflammation and support hormone health. Aim for 2–3 servings a week. Not into fish? A good-quality omega-3 supplement can help too (check out my supplement recommendations under 'My Favorite Things').
Get More Fiber Every Day
I always joke that fiber is a dietitian’s favorite nutrient—and for good reason!
Fiber is kind of a superhero when it comes to managing PCOS. It:
Keeps blood sugar stable
Supports digestion
Helps you feel fuller longer (which is super helpful after surgery)
Good fiber sources include:
Chia and flax seeds
Leafy greens like spinach
Whole grains like oats
Beans and lentils (if your stomach can handle them)
Final Thoughts
There’s still a lot we don’t fully understand about PCOS, but one thing is clear: bariatric surgery combined with smart nutrition can make a real difference. Whether it's cutting back on processed foods, adding inositol, or boosting your fiber and healthy fats, small changes can lead to big improvements—often in just a year.
