Wildgrain Blog

Best Bread for PCOS

By Dr. Jorge, Ph.D. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen subscription box for sourdough breads, fresh pastas, and artisanal pastries. More and more women are being diagnosed with PCOS, yet it remains a condition that’s often misunderstood. One thing is clear: diet plays a key role in PCOS symptom management. In this article, we’ll explore the best breads for PCOS management and which ones are best to avoid, so you can focus on meals that help you feel your best. How is PCOS affected by diet? What diet is best for PCOS? Diet can significantly affect symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). High insulin levels, chronic inflammation, and elevated androgens (male hormones like testosterone) are all linked to PCOS. Foods or diets that are inflammatory or high in sugar can increase insulin resistance and worsen symptoms. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet that is low in added sugars and limits highly processed foods is best for managing PCOS. Can you still eat bread with PCOS? What carbs should you avoid with PCOS? Yes, you can still eat bread with PCOS. While some types of bread (like white bread) can work against managing symptoms, others (like whole grain or whole wheat bread) can actually help support healthy blood sugar and insulin levels. It’s best to avoid refined carbohydrates and added sugars, including white bread, white pasta, and other highly processed breads made with enriched flour or added sweeteners. Does gluten cause hormonal imbalance? Is gluten bad for PCOS? Gluten may contribute to hormonal imbalances in individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, as the body’s reduced ability to absorb nutrients can lead to these imbalances. For these individuals, gluten can trigger inflammation and should be avoided. However, there is no evidence that gluten worsens PCOS symptoms in those who are not sensitive to it. For most people with PCOS, focusing on overall diet quality, such as choosing whole foods and limiting refined foods, is more beneficial at managing PCOS symptoms than eliminating gluten. Is sourdough bread PCOS-friendly? Can you eat sourdough bread with PCOS? Sourdough bread may be considered PCOS-friendly due to its unique fermentation process, which makes it a low-glycemic-index (GI) food. Low GI foods can help manage blood sugar levels, which in turn may help improve PCOS symptoms associated with insulin resistance. Sourdough bread has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may further alleviate chronic inflammation often experienced by PCOS sufferers. Is pita bread PCOS-friendly? Is naan bread PCOS-friendly? Pita bread and naan bread can be PCOS-friendly, especially when you opt for whole wheat versions. Whole wheat pita bread and whole wheat naan bread have a higher fiber content and a lower GI, which can help people with PCOS avoid blood sugar spikes and prevent PCOS symptoms from worsening. While whole grains are best for managing PCOS symptoms, any type of pita bread or naan bread can still be enjoyed as part of a balanced, PCOS-friendly diet when consumed in moderation and paired with nutritious, high-fiber foods like vegetables and lean protein. Is whole wheat bread PCOS-friendly? Is white bread ok for PCOS? Yes, whole wheat bread is absolutely PCOS-friendly and a great choice for those looking for foods that can help manage PCOS symptoms. Whole wheat bread is made from whole grains, which offer several health benefits, including improved blood sugar control and reduced inflammation. White bread, on the other hand, is not generally recommended for those with PCOS because it has a high GI and is low in fiber and nutrients. As a result, consuming white bread can cause blood sugar spikes and worsen insulin resistance, which many people with PCOS already experience. Higher insulin levels can also cause hormonal imbalances, leading to common PCOS symptoms such as acne and irregular periods. Choosing whole wheat bread instead of white bread can be a simple yet effective way to manage insulin levels and support hormonal health. What kind of toast is best for PCOS? Can I eat toast with PCOS? The best toast for PCOS is made from bread that is high in fiber and nutrients. Whole wheat bread and sourdough bread are great options, as these nutritious choices can help manage PCOS symptoms rather than aggravate them. For a balanced breakfast or snack, pair your toast with a source of protein, such as eggs or nut butter, or with healthy fats, like avocado. Adding protein and healthy fats to whole wheat toast can help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and decrease insulin resistance, all of which are beneficial for managing PCOS. What kind of bread can I use for a sandwich if I have PCOS? Whole wheat and whole grain bread varieties are the best choices for a sandwich when you have PCOS. To further support management of PCOS symptoms, be sure to pack your sandwich with lean protein, healthy fats, and high-fiber foods like lean meat, avocado, or plenty of vegetables. Choosing breads that are minimally processed and low in added sugars can also help keep blood sugar levels stable. What kind of bread is best for PCOS? What bread is PCOS-friendly? The best bread for PCOS is bread that is nutritious, rich in fiber, and minimally processed. Whole wheat bread, sourdough bread, and whole grain bread are all PCOS-friendly choices that can keep blood sugar spikes at bay and manage inflammation. Opting for these nutrient-rich breads as part of a balanced, whole-food diet that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats while limiting added sugars and highly processed foods can further support PCOS management. Can you eat bread with PCOS and still lose weight? Yes, you can still eat bread and lose weight with PCOS. While many believe bread should be eliminated to manage PCOS, there is no evidence to support this claim. In fact, certain types of bread, like those made with whole grains, can help manage PCOS symptoms and support weight loss. Whole grains are high in fiber, which can help you feel fuller for longer, making it easier to eat less throughout the day and reducing overall calorie intake. Where can I buy healthy bread online? At Wildgrain, we specialize in making high-quality, fresh breads that are delivered directly to your door. Wildgrain is the first bake-from-frozen delivery subscription service for breads, rolls, pastries, and fresh pastas. Some of our popular breads include whole wheat sourdough, plain sourdough loaf and rye sourdough loaf. Learn more about Wildgrain and our artisanal baking and cooking methods.  About the Author Dr. Jorge has been a public health researcher for many years, holding both a Bachelor's degree and a Ph.D. in Chemistry. They presently work as a medical writer and love being able to assist others in understanding various health and scientific topics. This content is for informational use only and does not replace professional nutrition and/or medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is not a substitute for and should not be relied upon for specific nutrition and/or medical recommendations. Please talk with your doctor about any questions or concerns.