Weight Gain & PCOD: Understanding the Connection
When Your Weight Feels Out of Control — But There’s a Reason
Many women with PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) feel like they are gaining weight even without overeating. Clothes fit tighter. The scale won’t budge despite dieting. It’s frustrating — and often misunderstood. The truth is, PCOD and weight gain are deeply connected through hormones, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we often see young women struggling with stubborn weight due to PCOD. This guide helps you understand why it happens — and most importantly, what you can do about it.
What Is PCOD?
Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is a hormonal imbalance where the ovaries produce excess androgens (male hormones), leading to:
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Irregular periods or no periods
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Weight gain, especially around the belly
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Acne and excess facial/body hair
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Difficulty in losing weight
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Infertility in some cases
PCOD often starts during teenage years and affects 1 in 5 women in India. And for many, weight gain is one of the earliest and most persistent signs.
Why Does PCOD Cause Weight Gain?
Here’s how PCOD affects your weight:
🔹 1. Insulin Resistance
Most women with PCOD have insulin resistance — their bodies produce insulin, but the cells don’t respond properly. This leads to:
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High insulin levels
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Increased fat storage, especially in the abdomen
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More cravings for carbs and sugar
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Fatigue and low energy
Excess insulin also triggers the ovaries to produce more testosterone, worsening symptoms.
🔹 2. Hormonal Imbalance
The excess androgens in PCOD lead to:
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Slower metabolism
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Muscle loss and fat gain
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Mood swings and emotional eating
This imbalance makes it harder to lose weight and easier to gain it, even with normal food intake.
🔹 3. Chronic Inflammation
PCOD is linked to low-grade inflammation, which further:
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Increases insulin resistance
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Triggers fat accumulation
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Affects digestion and liver function
This creates a vicious cycle: weight gain worsens PCOD, and PCOD worsens weight gain.
How Much Weight Gain Is Normal with PCOD?
Women with PCOD often gain 5 to 15 kgs more than their average body weight, especially in the abdominal region. The weight tends to settle around:
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Waist and hips
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Upper arms
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Back and chest
This kind of central obesity increases the risk of diabetes, heart problems, and fertility issues — which is why early management is essential.
Can Losing Weight Improve PCOD?
Yes — and even 5–10% weight loss can make a big difference!
Benefits include:
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Regular periods
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Better ovulation and fertility
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Lower androgen levels (less acne and facial hair)
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Improved insulin sensitivity
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Reduced risk of diabetes and cholesterol issues
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Better energy and mood
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we offer holistic, hormone-friendly weight loss guidance that’s safe and sustainable.
Tips to Manage Weight with PCOD
✅ 1. Choose a Balanced, Low-Glycaemic Diet
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Focus on whole grains (dalia, brown rice, oats)
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Eat protein with every meal (paneer, dal, eggs)
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Add healthy fats (seeds, nuts, ghee in moderation)
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Avoid sugar, white flour, fried food
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Stay hydrated — drink 2–3 litres of water daily
We provide custom diet plans that support hormonal balance without crash dieting.
✅ 2. Exercise Daily — But Gently
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Aim for 30–45 minutes of activity daily
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Brisk walking, yoga, or strength training is ideal
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Avoid over-exercising or skipping meals — this can increase cortisol and worsen PCOD
Our team recommends easy-to-follow routines based on age, weight, and symptoms.
✅ 3. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Relief
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Sleep 7–9 hours daily — lack of sleep disrupts hormones
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Try meditation, deep breathing, or journaling
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Reduce screen time before bed
PCOD weight is not just about calories — your stress levels matter too.
✅ 4. Track Your Cycle and Weight Changes
Use a period tracker app and keep a weight log. This helps:
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Spot irregularities early
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Understand what lifestyle changes are helping
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Stay motivated during your journey
✅ 5. Consult a Gynaecologist Regularly
PCOD requires ongoing care, not just a one-time diagnosis. At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic, we offer:
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Hormonal evaluations
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Ultrasound monitoring
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Nutritional and fitness counselling
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Fertility guidance if needed
We create personalized treatment plans that support long-term hormone health and confidence.
You’re Not Alone — and It’s Not Your Fault
PCOD-related weight gain is not simply about willpower. It’s a result of real, biological changes in your body. With the right care, consistency, and support, you can manage PCOD, lose weight naturally, and feel better — physically and emotionally.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we offer the best PCOD care with compassion, privacy, and trust.
