PCOS is a very debilitating health condition that impacts women. The key features of PCOS are hormonal imbalance, irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, insulin resistance, fertility issues. The major symptoms of this health condition are: Irregular or missed periods, excessive hair growth (on the face, chest, back, etc.), acne and oily skin, thinning hair or male-pattern baldness, weight gain, especially around the abdomen, dark patches of skin (particularly on the neck, underarms, or thighs), and infertility or difficulty getting pregnant. Research suggests that detox drinks may help relieve some of the above mentioned symptoms of PCOS. These drinks also have an overall positive effect and comes with little or no side effects. Here are five detox drinks that women can try.
Lemon Ginger Water
Benefits: Lemon aids digestion, supports liver detoxification, and provides vitamin C. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, helps regulate blood sugar, and promotes circulation. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated ginger to warm water. Stir well and drink it on an empty stomach in the morning for best results.
Ingredients you need: Fresh lemon, ginger, warm water.
Apple Cider Vinegar Drink
Benefits: Apple cider vinegar balances blood sugar levels in the body, boosts insulin sensitivity. This can reduce some symptoms of PCOS. Moreover, addition of cinnamon in the drink can help manage insulin resistance. Add cinnamon or honey for flavor, if desired. Drink this before meals.
Ingredients you need: 1-2 tbsp apple cider vinegar, warm water, a pinch of cinnamon or honey (optional).
Mint and Cucumber Detox Water
Benefits: Reduces bloating, increases hydration, helps with painful symptoms, reduces fluid retention and inflammation and boosts detoxification. Add cucumber slices and a handful of mint leaves to a glass of water. Let it infuse for a few hours in the fridge and drink it throughout the day.
Ingredients you need: Fresh mint leaves, cucumber slices, water.
Turmeric Milk aka Golden Milk
Benefits: Curcumin present in turmeric is a very powerful antioxidant which can help reduce inflammation, reduce pain and other symptoms of PCOS and balance your hormones. Heat the milk and stir in turmeric powder. Add a pinch of black pepper for better absorption. Drink it before bed for its calming effect.
Ingredients you need: 1 tsp turmeric powder, 1 cup warm milk (dairy or plant-based), black pepper.
Green Tea with Lemon and Cinnamon
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants which helps manage PCOS symptoms of pain, bloating and inflammation. It also helps detox your body, manage weight and regular blood sugar levels. Brew a cup of green tea, add a squeeze of lemon, and a cinnamon stick or a pinch of ground cinnamon. Drink it once or twice a day.
Ingredients you need: Green tea, lemon juice, cinnamon stick or ground cinnamon.