PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) affects many women of reproductive age and is a common cause of irregular cycles and ovulation challenges. When ovulation is rare or absent, fertility can be affected, making it harder to conceive.
Read more about PCOS in our article What is PCOS? Symptoms, causes and treatment
You can also read more about PCOS and fertility in our article PCOS and fertility – how to increase your chances of getting pregnant
In addition, many women experience issues with blood sugar, hormonal imbalance and other symptoms, which makes it relevant to support the body through diet and lifestyle.
Some women have PCO (polycystic ovaries) without meeting the criteria for PCOS, but they can still experience symptoms similar to PCOS. In both cases, it may be beneficial to know the supplements that have been researched and are widely used by women who want to support their cycle and fertility.
Inositol and PCOS
Inositol occurs naturally in the body and in several foods. Two forms are particularly relevant for PCOS: myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol. Studies suggest that a combination of the two may affect insulin sensitivity, hormonal balance and ovulation.
Research has shown that inositol may:
- Improve the body’s response to insulin
- Help regulate ovulation
- Support egg quality
- Reduce levels of male hormones
Several studies recommend myo-inositol as the primary form combined with a smaller amount of d-chiro-inositol, since high doses of d-chiro-inositol alone may negatively affect egg quality.
See our selection of inositol supplements
Chromium and PCOS
Chromium contributes to maintaining normal blood sugar levels, which may be relevant for women with PCOS, as insulin resistance often plays a role. Research suggests chromium supplements may affect insulin response, lipid profile and hormonal markers.
In Denmark, chromium yeast is approved as a supplement and is available in Bio-Chrom, which contains 100 µg per tablet.
Chromium and PCOS – which type should you choose?
When choosing chromium, it is best to select organic forms such as chromium picolinate or chromium yeast. These are absorbed better than cheaper alternatives, increasing the likelihood of noticeable effects.
A typical dose for women with PCOS is around 200 µg daily, and it may take at least 8 weeks before results can be evaluated.
In Denmark, ChromoPrecise is the only approved form of chromium yeast. Our Bio-Chrom contains 100 µg per tablet, making it easy to adjust your intake.
See our selection of chromium supplements
Vitamin B6 and hormonal balance in PCOS
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) plays an important role in the body’s hormonal system and may be relevant for women with PCOS who want to support fertility and stabilize their cycle. Possible benefits include:
- Lowering homocysteine: Elevated homocysteine has been observed in some women with PCOS and may be linked to insulin resistance and inflammation. B6 helps break it down and support balance.
- Supporting hormone production: B6 is involved in enzymatic processes affecting neurotransmitter and hormone production, including progesterone. Balanced progesterone is important for ovulation and a stable luteal phase.
- Impact on insulin sensitivity and blood sugar regulation: There are indications that B6 may improve the body’s response to insulin and help stabilize blood sugar, reducing hormonal fluctuations that can disrupt the cycle.
See our supplements with vitamin B6
Omega-3 and PCOS
Omega-3 fatty acids from fish and supplements have been studied for their effects in PCOS. Research suggests they may help with:
- Improved insulin sensitivity
- Reduced inflammation
- Better lipid profile (cholesterol and triglycerides)
- Lower levels of male hormones
See our selection of Omega-3 supplements
Magnesium and PCOS
Magnesium plays a central role in energy metabolism and blood sugar regulation. Studies show that magnesium supplementation may support insulin response, reduce inflammation and contribute to a more stable hormonal balance.
See our selection of magnesium products
Vitamin D and E in PCOS
Vitamin D deficiency is common among women with PCOS. Research suggests supplementation may affect insulin sensitivity, inflammation and possibly ovulation.
Vitamin E works as an antioxidant, and some studies have linked supplementation with improved hormone profiles in women with PCOS.
See our vitamin D supplements
Zinc and PCOS
Zinc contributes to normal fertility and reproduction as well as immune support. Research suggests zinc may influence both insulin response and hormone balance in PCOS.
See our zinc supplements
NAC and PCOS
NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is an antioxidant that has been linked in studies to improved insulin resistance, reduced testosterone levels and increased chances of ovulation in women with PCOS.
Summary of supplements for PCOS
Supplement | Possible focus area |
---|---|
Inositol | Insulin, hormonal balance, ovulation |
Chromium | Blood sugar, lipid profile |
Omega-3 | Inflammation, cholesterol, hormones |
Magnesium | Blood sugar, energy metabolism, hormone balance |
Vitamin D & E | Immune function, hormone regulation, antioxidant support |
Zinc | Fertility, immune system, insulin |
NAC | Antioxidant, insulin, ovulation |
Pro-/synbiotics | Gut health, metabolism, hormone balance |