15 Best Supplements for PCOS Weight Loss

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects approximately 1.34-2.27% of women in their reproductive years in the UK (British Journal of General Practice). It causes symptoms, e.g., hirsutism (excess hair around chin and mouth), food cravings, irregular periods, fatigue, acne and hair loss. Weight gain is a highly frustrating one and is difficult to treat. 

The PCOS belly or PCOS weight gain is related to disturbed hormonal levels. Lifestyle modifications and a healthy weight are necessary to lose weight successfully in PCOS. Nutritional supplements can't replace them. However, they offer an excellent plan to boost the efforts to lose weight. 

Besides improving weight, these supplements reduce hair loss, improve mental health and improve the chances of achieving pregnancy. Various supplements are introduced here for this purpose. However, while moving forward, it is necessary to consider the health goals. 

If you are interested in knowing more about PCOS weight gain, read our article, ‘What Does a PCOS Belly Look Like?’ for more information and a better understanding.  

Inositol

Inositol is a sugar that is involved in cellular signalling. Sometimes, it is classified as part of the vitamin B complex. Specifically, D-chiro-inositol and Myo-inositol are the two forms known for their impact on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). It works by improving insulin sensitivity, as insulin resistance is common in PCOS and leads to higher insulin levels in the blood, 

exacerbating symptoms, e.g., weight gain. By improving insulin response, inositol helps regulate blood sugar levels, reducing the storage of fat and facilitating weight loss. Research indicates that inositol supplementation reduces insulin resistance, lowers androgen levels, and promotes ovulation. The stable blood glucose levels reduce cravings and improve metabolic rate, further aiding in weight management. 

Inositol is a natural and effective supplement to support women with PCOS in their weight loss efforts, making it a valuable addition to a comprehensive PCOS management plan. Visit our page to learn about the uses, side effects and interactions of Myo-Inositol.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats in flaxseeds, fish oil, walnuts, etc. These polyunsaturated fats are necessary to maintain health, support heart and brain function and reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids influence the inflammatory pathways. For women with PCOS, chronic low-grade inflammation is an issue that exacerbates symptoms, e.g., hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and weight gain. 

By reducing inflammation, omega-3s help improve insulin sensitivity and lower insulin levels. Omega-3 fatty acids have many benefits for PCOS weight loss. Studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation decreases androgen levels, the male hormones often elevated in women with PCOS and leads to symptoms, e.g., acne, weight gain, and hirsutism. 

Additionally, omega-3s enhance metabolic health by improving lipid profiles and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which are more prevalent in women with PCOS. By reducing inflammation and supporting insulin sensitivity, omega-3 fatty acids aid in weight loss for women with PCOS.

Welzo offers Lamberts Omega 3 Ultra Capsules. Visit us to buy it.

Berberine

Berberine is a bioactive compound obtained from some plants, e.g., barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape. It has a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties. It works by activating the enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which regulates metabolism. The activation of AMPK enhances insulin sensitivity, promotes efficient glucose uptake by cells and reduces blood sugar levels.

This mechanism is beneficial for women with PCOS, who experience insulin resistance and higher insulin levels, leading to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Various studies support the benefits of berberine for PCOS weight loss. It lowers insulin levels and blood glucose, which helps mitigate the metabolic disturbances of PCOS.

Additionally, berberine reduces the levels of androgens, the male hormones elevated in women with PCOS. It alleviates symptoms, e.g., weight gain and excess hair growth. Moreover, berberine improves lipid profiles by lowering triglycerides and cholesterol, further supporting cardiovascular health. These combined effects make it a powerful supplement for PCOS weight loss. Welzo has many Berberine-based products by Klaire Labs, Neuro Biologix, Thorne and Ecological Formulas. Visit us to review these products.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice from the bark of Cinnamomum trees with many culinary and medicinal applications. Besides a distinctive flavour and aroma, it boasts numerous health benefits, particularly for people with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Cinnamon enhances insulin sensitivity, which is necessary for women with PCOS who have insulin resistance. 

Improved insulin sensitivity means the cells are better able to respond to insulin, facilitating more efficient glucose uptake, thus lowering blood sugar levels. It helps control insulin spikes that lead to fat storage and weight gain. Studies indicate that cinnamon helps improve insulin resistance, lower fasting blood glucose levels, and reduce cholesterol levels.

It has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce chronic inflammation linked to weight gain and PCOS. Improving blood sugar levels and metabolic health, cinnamon aids in weight loss and relieves other PCOS symptoms, making it a valuable supplement for those managing this condition. Including cinnamon as part of a balanced diet supports overall health and weight management efforts in women with PCOS.

Acetylcysteine (NAC)

Acetylcysteine, or N-acetylcysteine (NAC), is a form of the amino acid cysteine. It has antioxidant properties and has a role in replenishing glutathione levels, a vital antioxidant. NAC enhances the antioxidant defence and improves insulin sensitivity. For women with PCOS, insulin resistance is an issue that leads to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. 

By improving insulin sensitivity, NAC lowers blood sugar levels, which prevents fat accumulation and promotes weight loss. Additionally, NAC has antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, often elevated in women with PCOS.  NAC improves insulin resistance, reduces androgen levels, and supports ovulation, thereby addressing multiple aspects of PCOS. 

Lowering androgen levels alleviate symptoms, e.g., acne, weight gain, and hirsutism. NAC reduces oxidative stress and inflammation and supports overall metabolic health, making it easier to manage weight. By addressing these underlying issues, NAC can be an effective supplement for aiding weight loss and improving overall health in women with PCOS.

Welzo HAS NAC Capsules by New Beginnings that deliver 500 mg NAC per Capsule. Visit the page to place an order.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin involved in different bodily functions, e.g., immune function, bone health, and hormone regulation. The body obtains it through sunlight exposure, certain foods, and supplements. It works by interacting with cellular processes that influence inflammation and insulin sensitivity, the critical concerns for women with PCOS. 

Many women with PCOS experience vitamin D deficiency, which exacerbates symptoms, e.g., weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances. By improving insulin sensitivity, vitamin D helps improve blood sugar levels and reduce fat storage, aiding in weight loss. Studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation boosts insulin resistance, lowers androgen levels, and reduces inflammation.  

These effects mitigate common PCOS symptoms, e.g., irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, and metabolic issues. Additionally, adequate vitamin D levels cause better energy levels and mood. By addressing vitamin D deficiency, women with PCOS improve their metabolic health and achieve a better ability to lose weight. 

Welzo offers Lamberts Vitamin D3 (4000IU) Capsules. Visit the page to order it.

CoQ10

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a natural antioxidant in the body, particularly in the mitochondria. In mitochondria, it plays a role in energy production. It is available as a dietary supplement and benefits in managing various health conditions. It improves cellular energy production and reduces oxidative stress. 

In women with PCOS, inflammation and insulin resistance are common issues contributing to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. CoQ10 helps improve insulin sensitivity, allowing cells to use glucose more effectively and reducing blood sugar levels. It prevents excess fat storage and supports weight loss. Studies have shown that CoQ10 supplementation improves insulin resistance, lowers blood glucose levels, and reduces inflammatory markers. 

Additionally, CoQ10 helps improve lipid profiles, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. As an antioxidant, it promotes better cellular function and health and helps combat oxidative stress. Including CoQ10 in a PCOS management plan thus provides numerous benefits for weight loss and overall well-being. 

Welzo has many similar products. Visit the page to buy CoQ10 (150 mg) Capsules.

Magnesium

Magnesium has a role in over 300 biochemical reactions, e.g., blood glucose control, muscle and nerve function,  and energy production. It occurs in foods, e.g., seeds, leafy green vegetables, nuts, and whole grains and is also available as a dietary supplement. It works by reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. 

Many women with PCOS have low magnesium levels, which exacerbates symptoms, e.g., insulin resistance and difficulty losing weight. By enhancing insulin sensitivity, magnesium improves the efficiency of glucose use, reducing blood sugar levels and preventing excess fat storage. 

It has anti-inflammatory properties that help lower chronic inflammation. Many studies have shown that magnesium supplementation improves insulin sensitivity, lowers fasting blood glucose levels, and reduces inflammation. These effects help in weight management and reduce other PCOS symptoms, e.g., hormonal imbalances and irregular menstrual cycles. 

Furthermore, magnesium helps reduce stress and improve sleep quality, which helps in weight management. Welzo has many magnesium supplements. Visit our Vitamins & Supplements page for more information.

Zinc

Zinc is a trace mineral with numerous bodily functions, e.g., immune response, cell division, and protein synthesis. It is found in foods, e.g., seeds, shellfish, meat, legumes, and nuts, and is also available as a dietary supplement. It works by influencing hormone regulation and improving insulin sensitivity. Many women with PCOS have zinc deficiencies, which exacerbate symptoms, e.g., insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and difficulty losing weight.

By enhancing insulin sensitivity, zinc helps the body manage blood sugar levels more effectively, reducing the risk of fat storage and supporting weight loss. Its role in hormone regulation helps lower androgen levels, contributing to weight gain and other symptoms.

Research indicates that zinc supplementation reduces insulin resistance, lowers androgen levels, and improves lipid profiles, which are crucial for promoting weight loss in women with PCOS. Moreover, zinc has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, further supporting metabolic health. Thus, zinc is an essential supplement for people managing body weight. 

Welzo offers many Vitamins and Supplements. Visit it to buy these products. 

Carnitine

Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound obtained from the amino acids methionine and lysine. It has a role in energy production by transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria. Carnitine is found in foods, e.g., dairy products and meat and is also available as a dietary supplement. It enhances the physical ability to burn fat, which is particularly beneficial for women with PCOS and improves insulin sensitivity, which is a common issue for women with PCOS.

Better insulin sensitivity allows more efficient glucose utilisation to prevent fat accumulation and reduce blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that carnitine supplementation leads to significant reductions in body mass index (BMI), body weight, and waist circumference in women with PCOS.

Its role in enhancing metabolic flexibility and improving energy levels helps women with PCOS engage in more physical activity, further supporting weight loss efforts. It is a powerful supplement for promoting weight loss and improving overall health in women managing this condition. 

Chromium

Chromium is a trace mineral vital for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. It enhances the action of insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) involves insulin resistance, which leads to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. 

Chromium stabilises blood sugar levels, reducing and promoting fat loss and unnecessary cravings. Furthermore, it boosts energy, regulates mood, and helps maintain a healthy lifestyle. Chromium supplementation helps manage insulin resistance and promote weight loss in individuals with PCOS.   

However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before a supplementation regimen, especially if there are underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. We have many chromium supplements at Welzo. Visit the page for more information. 

Turmeric

Turmeric, derived from the Curcuma longa plant, has attracted attention for its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its active compound, curcumin, has therapeutic effects. In PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), turmeric operates on multiple fronts. It alleviates inflammation and improves insulin sensitivity.

Moreover, it supports metabolic health by improving digestion and promoting fat breakdown. These effects aid in weight management and mitigate insulin resistance commonly associated with PCOS. Additionally, turmeric helps regulate menstrual cycles and reduce symptoms, e.g., mood swings and bloating, which support weight loss efforts by promoting overall well-being.

Adding turmeric to the diet or taking it as a supplement benefits individuals with PCOS looking to manage their weight effectively. However, consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplementation regimen, particularly if someone has existing health conditions or is taking medications. 

Visit us to order HealthAid Curcumin Tablets and Lamberts Curcumin Ultra Tablets, both containing curcumin. 

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose oil (extracted from the seeds of the evening primrose plant) is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. It has potential benefits in managing various conditions, e.g., PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). It works by supporting hormonal balance,  often disrupted in people with PCOS. GLA helps regulate prostaglandin production, which impacts hormone levels and reduces inflammation.

Evening primrose oil alleviates symptoms, e.g., bloating, insulin resistance, and irregular menstrual cycles. By promoting hormonal balance, evening primrose oil contributes to stable blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity, facilitating weight loss efforts. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce cravings and promote satiety, supporting dietary adherence and weight management goals.

However, it's important to note that while evening primrose oil shows potential as a supplement for PCOS weight loss, individual responses vary. Consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating evening primrose oil into the diet regimen is advisable, especially for someone with an underlying health condition.

Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil (derived from the livers of cod fish) is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, e.g., DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid), and vitamins A and D. It offers numerous health benefits, e.g., brain function, support for heart health,  and immune system function. Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and help lower inflammation in PCOS and insulin resistance. It improves insulin sensitivity, facilitating weight loss efforts. 

Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids support metabolic health by enhancing fat metabolism and promoting a healthy balance of hormones. Vitamins D and A in cod liver oil are important in hormone regulation and immune function. Furthermore, vitamin D deficiency is common in people with PCOS and is associated with insulin resistance and weight gain. 

Supplementation with cod liver oil helps address this deficiency and potentially improves metabolic health. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, especially if someone has underlying health conditions or is taking medications. 

B Complex Vitamins

B complex vitamins are a group of eight essential nutrients, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins work in energy production, metabolism, and hormone regulation.

In PCOS weight loss, B complex vitamins support various aspects of metabolic health. They aid in fat, carbohydrate, and protein metabolism, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes energy production. Additionally, B vitamins are involved in neurotransmitter synthesis and hormone production, resulting in mood and appetite control.

The B vitamins, e.g., B6 and B12, help reduce homocysteine levels, an amino acid linked to cardiovascular risk factors and insulin resistance in people with PCOS. By addressing these underlying metabolic issues, B complex vitamins support weight loss efforts and improve overall health in individuals with PCOS. However, consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen, as individual needs vary.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which multivitamin is the best for PCOS? 

The multivitamin uniquely formulated to fulfil the health needs of PCOS women is the PCOS MULTI® by PCOS Nutrition Centre. It provides vital nutrients to women with PCOS and helps fight inflammation, reduce insulin resistance and improve fertility. 

Describe the best pills for weight loss in PCOS. 

Metformin benefits in PCOS. It affects the insulin and glucose levels and improves the appetite. It addresses obesity and PCOS and is beneficial for type 2 diabetes. 

How can one reduce PCOS weight gain naturally? 

There are many pills for women with higher BMI and PCOS. These are regularly monitoring portion size, eating high-fibre foods and whole grains, limiting the use of added sugars and choosing heart-friendly fats only. 

Is it ok for people with PCOS to take weight loss pills? 

Many prescription weight loss pills, e.g., orlistat, help people with PCOS to lose weight. These weight loss pills help to improve insulin resistance, hypercholesterolemia, higher blood pressure and many other signs. These pills, however, don't fully treat these conditions.

What is the belly shape with PCOS? 

PCOS causes visceral fat accumulation in the abdomen. Consequently, a PCOS body experiences a waist-to-hip ratio of 0.86 or higher. The stomach changes are unnoticeable in these people, and many symptoms of PCOS do appear.

Enlist some exercises for PCOS belly. 

Limiting the amount of cardio is the key to successful cardio workouts for people with PCOS. Moderate-intensity workouts, e.g., a HIIT class lasting more than an hour, a short swimming session, and a brisk walk are helpful. 

Bottom-line 

Management of PCOS and achieving health goals need a multifaceted approach to exercise, diet and the right choice of supplements. The 15 supplements highlighted in the article, e.g., berberine, Omega-3 fatty acids and inositol, support hormonal balance, metabolic health, and insulin sensitivity and make it easier to lose weight.

However, it is necessary to consult a healthcare provider before starting these supplements to ensure that they are well-tailored to the individual needs and are safe. Using these supplements with a healthy lifestyle optimises the efforts to achieve excellent well-being and health with PCOS.

We have detailed the best dieting plan for PCOS for women. Visit the page to read it. Visit our informative article on PCOS, its causes & symptoms for better understanding.