Shruti Haasan's PCOS battle: What all did she avoid as part of her strict diet?

Actress Shruti Haasan was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome or PCOS when she was 26 years old. Shruti has been quite vocal about her condition and often shares messages that spread awareness about PCOS. Recently, she revealed in an interview that she even suffered from endometriosis and dysmenorrhea or extreme pain during menstruation. PCOS was diagnosed when she underwent an ultrasound scanning as part of her treatment for period pains. Shruti says that she came to know about the condition while she was already taking medication to make her periods regular as well as to ease the severe pain. The actress considered it a burden in addition to the excruciating pain that she suffered every month.

Change in workout and diet
Apparently, Shruti always had issues like bloating during her periods. With the onset of PCOS, excessive facial and body hair growth also bothered her. The actress had to alter her diet and workout plans as her weight increased due to the condition. “I had to change my entire routine as PCOS-related weight gain was huge for me. I have been on PCOS medication for over seven years,” said Shruti. She followed a strict diet and avoided alcohol and caffeine. That said, there is no permanent cure for PCOS.
A battle from school days
Shruti says that she has been suffering since the day she had her first period. She used to fall unconscious at school due to severe pain and dehydration. “My friends used to wonder whether I really was in so much pain. They told me that they only had an increased appetite during their periods. I wish I too could say something like that,” says Shruti. As an actress, Shruti often has to dance or act in fight sequences even during periods. “It is tough to dance or do action scenes then. But, we may not always be able to tell the director about such difficulties,” Shruti said in the interview.

What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome is a common hormonal disorder seen in women in their reproductive years. Those who suffer from PCOS may have elevated levels of androgen which is a male hormone. The condition that causes irregular periods may affect ovulation. Besides, this may even lead to small cysts in the ovaries. Even though irregular periods are the most common syndrome of PCOS, most people tend to ignore it. Acne, facial hair and hair fall too are symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.