Best PCOS Supplements: A Dietitian’s Guide

If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), you are not alone — it affects an estimated 6–12% of women of reproductive age in the U.S. (CDC). Many women wonder: Do supplements really help with PCOS symptoms?

Certain supplements can support hormone balance, improve insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation, and help manage symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and weight gain. But not all supplements are equally effective — and more is not always better.

As a registered dietitian, I created this guide to help you choose the best PCOS supplements, backed by science and clinical experience.


Why Supplements Matter for PCOS

PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can affect your ovaries, metabolism, and mental health. Common features include irregular ovulation, high androgens, and ovarian cysts, often linked to insulin resistance and chronic inflammation (NIH).

How PCOS Affects Your Body

  • Insulin resistance: Up to 70% of women with PCOS have it (PubMed).

  • Chronic inflammation: Can worsen acne, fatigue, and weight gain (PubMed).

  • Hormone imbalance: Causes acne, hair thinning, and excess hair growth.

Can Supplements Help with PCOS?

Yes. Research shows that targeted supplements can improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and even improve fertility. They work best as part of a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management.

Need help building a full plan? Explore my PCOS meal plans or schedule a consultation.


Best PCOS Supplements

Here are the top supplements backed by research:

Inositol for PCOS

One of the most effective supplements for PCOS is inositol (myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol).

  • Improves insulin sensitivity

  • May restore ovulation and regular cycles

  • Supports egg quality and fertility (PubMed)

Recommended dosage: 2–4 grams per day of myo-inositol.

Find quality inositol supplements on my Amazon storefront or through Thorne.

Vitamin D and PCOS

Many women with PCOS have low vitamin D, which influences insulin sensitivity, mood, and hormone balance.

  • Supports menstrual regularity

  • Helps bone and immune health

  • Improves insulin response (NIH)

Get your levels tested and supplement if needed. Learn more about testing on my nutrition services page.

Thorne Vitamin D + K2

NOW Vitamin D-3 5000 IU

Sports Research Vitamin D3 + K2

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s (EPA and DHA) reduce inflammation and may help lower androgen levels.

  • Reduces inflammation and testosterone

  • Supports ovulation (PubMed)

  • Benefits heart and brain health

Food sources include fatty fish, flaxseed, and walnuts. Supplements are available through Thorne and my Amazon storefront.

Nordic Naturals Omega-3

Viva Naturals Triple-Strength Omega-3 Fish Oil

Thorne Omega Superb

Magnesium and PCOS

Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar, supports stress response, and may ease PMS symptoms.

  • Improves insulin sensitivity

  • Reduces stress and promotes sleep (NIH)

Food sources include leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.

Thorne Magnesium Glycinate

Probiotics and Gut Health

Women with PCOS may have gut microbiome imbalances (PubMed).

  • Supports digestion and hormone metabolism

  • May improve insulin sensitivity

  • Lowers inflammation

Look for a multi-strain, high-CFU probiotic. Trusted brands are available on my Amazon storefront and Thorne.

Other Supplements to Consider

  • Zinc: May improve acne and hair loss.

  • NAC (N-acetylcysteine): Supports insulin sensitivity and ovulation.

  • Chromium: Helps with glucose metabolism.

  • Spearmint tea: May reduce testosterone and improve hirsutism (PubMed).

For a curated list of products, visit my PCOS supplements guide.


How to Choose the Right PCOS Supplements

Quality Matters

Choose supplements that are:

  • Third-party tested (NSF, USP)

  • Free of unnecessary fillers

  • At clinically effective doses

Find trusted products on my Amazon storefront or order directly from Thorne.

When to Talk to a Professional

Not every supplement is right for everyone. Some may interact with medications or worsen symptoms.

Book a consultation with me on Nourish or explore my PCOS nutrition guides.

Expert tips to lose weight and manage PCOS symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best supplements to take for PCOS?

  • Inositol

  • Vitamin D

  • Omega-3s

  • Magnesium

  • Probiotics

Which vitamins help with PCOS symptoms?

  • Vitamin D

  • B vitamins (especially B12 if on metformin)

  • Zinc

Can supplements cure PCOS?

No. Supplements help manage symptoms but do not cure PCOS.

Is inositol good for PCOS?

Yes. It improves insulin sensitivity, restores cycles, and supports fertility (PubMed).


Supporting PCOS Beyond Supplements

Supplements are just one part of managing PCOS.


Final Thoughts

Supplements can play an important role in managing PCOS symptoms, but finding the right ones for your body is key.

If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to start, I can help you create a personalized, research-backed plan to balance your hormones and feel your best.

Book a consultation with me on Nourish, or explore my PCOS meal plans, supplements, and nutrition guides.

Find trusted, high-quality supplements on my Amazon storefront or Thorne.

Your PCOS does not define you — with the right tools and support, you can feel empowered and in control.

Healthy meal and supplements for PCOS weight loss
Next
Next

Top Dietitian-Approved Third-Party Supplements