The Impact of Mineral Supplementation on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinopathy that is common among women of reproductive age. It is a heterogeneous disorder with an unknown etiology. Different strategies have been proposed for the treatment of PCOS. Recent studies recommend supplementation with specific minerals for treating various PCOS phenotypes. We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and SCOPUS databases by using search terms combining PCOS with the supplementation of magnesium, zinc, selenium, or chromium. This review presents a narrative concerning the association between PCOS and magnesium, zinc, selenium, and chromium supplementation. We review findings from various randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses conducted in women of childbearing age with PCOS. Recent reports highlight the beneficial effect of minerals on the clinical and metabolic symptoms of PCOS. Further studies are required to establish the appropriate dosage level of these minerals for ameliorating the pathologies associated with PCOS because of the potential health risks linked with higher doses.

Keywords

• PCOS
• polycystic ovarian syndrome
• mineral supplementation
• magnesium
• zinc
• selenium