The Interplay Between PMOS and MASLD: Pathophysiology and Evidence-Based Nutritional Interventions

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolic Disorders
• Hepatology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects ~18% of reproductive-age women and shares risk factors with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), a global liver condition affecting ~25% of the population.
• Common comorbidities in PCOS include dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, central adiposity, and chronic inflammation, increasing MASLD risk.
• PCOS and MASLD are interconnected metabolic disorders with overlapping risk factors, necessitating a comprehensive management approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the pathophysiological links between PCOS and MASLD.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of specific nutritional interventions for managing coexisting PCOS and MASLD.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of approximately 30 articles was performed.
• Included studies focused on dietary patterns, macronutrient strategies, and dietary supplements for PCOS and MASLD.
• Analysis synthesized evidence on nutritional approaches for these metabolic conditions.

Main Results:

• An anti-inflammatory dietary pattern, omega-3 supplementation, and myo-inositol supplementation are identified as evidence-based initial strategies.
• Most current evidence is derived from studies focusing on either PCOS or MASLD populations individually.
• There is a lack of research on individuals with both coexisting PCOS and MASLD.

Conclusions:

• A combined nutritional approach (anti-inflammatory diet, omega-3s, myo-inositol) is recommended for managing coexisting PCOS and MASLD.
• Future research should prioritize long-term randomized controlled trials in diverse populations with both conditions.
• Nutritional interventions may evolve into primary therapeutic strategies for PCOS and MASLD management.