Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is an eating pattern inspired by the traditional cuisines of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, emphasizing olive oil as the primary fat source, abundant vegetables and fruits, whole grains, legumes, nuts, fish, and moderate dairy—while limiting red meat, processed foods, and refined sugars. For women with PCOS, it is one of the most evidence-supported dietary approaches, as its naturally anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing profile addresses multiple aspects of PCOS pathophysiology simultaneously. Research demonstrates that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet is associated with improved insulin sensitivity, lower androgen levels, better fertility outcomes, reduced cardiovascular risk, and an overall lower likelihood of meeting PCOS diagnostic criteria.