Do you find yourself having trouble figuring out what to make for dinner on a regular basis? Is this further complicated by your need to manage your PCOS symptoms? I got you covered with my top tips for organizing your pantry to manage PCOS and other hormone imbalances.

Start with a variety of glass and steel containers

Get yourself a variety of jars or other containers that appeal to you and can be easily labeled. You’ll want to limit plastic, since endocrine disrupting chemicals can leach into foods over time and make PCOS worse. Add some labels (you can get them pre-printed from etsy or write your own), then stock the following:

Stock a Variety of Whole Grains

Sometimes folks are surprised that I recommend stocking grains for PCOS, but actually whole grains are great for PCOS. They give you energy, B vitamins and antioxidants. Try to have quick and long cooking grains on hand. Quinoa is always great, because it’s high in protein and cooks quickly. When you have a little more time, heartier whole grains like barley, farro and brown rice are tasty. Also have some whole grain pasta, brown rice noodles and if you like, a loaf of whole grain bread.

Stock a Variety of Beans or Pulses

Have a variety of dried beans on hand from lentils to black beans. Most studies show plant protein is healthy and beneficial to include even if you’re a meat lover. It has fiber, which is excellent for PCOS and plant protein that you can make into soups, stews or tacos.

Have Some Healthy Cooking Oils on Hand

Have a variety of oils for different cuisines. Sunflower oil is a good neutral oil. Olive oil works for most things and can be used in sauces and dressings. Avocado is a little higher heat and also full of healthy fat. Try sesame oil or infused oil to finish dishes. Also, coconut oil is tasty in a lot of dishes.

Stock Some Favorite Condiments & Vinegar

Vinegar has been shown in studies to help lower blood sugar. This can be useful for folks with insulin resistant PCOS. Apple cider vinegar, sherry vinegar and rice wine vinegar are all tasty in sauces and dressing or for a quick pickle. Also consider including some tahini for sauces and hummus, shoyu or low-sodium tamari or coconut aminos and some nut or seed butters

Include a Variety of Anti-inflammatory Spices

Many spices are anti-inflammatory and/or antimicrobial, especially turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg and others. It’s nice to have a variety of global flavors such as Indian (curry, turmeric, garam masala, coriander, onion seeds, fenugreek), Mexican (chili powder, cumin), American/European (paprika, smoked paprika, garlic powder, sage, rosemary, thyme), Asian (Chinese 5 spice, ginger), Italian (oregano, basil, chili flakes), Middle Eastern (cardamom, ras al hanout, allspice), African (berbere) and any others you enjoy or that pique your interest.

Have Some Easy Healthy Snacks

Yes, fruits and veggies make great snacks, but sometimes you just want something salty or sweet. Also, no snacking is not “bad” for PCOS. I get asked that a lot. You can build healthy stacks with staples like nuts, whole grain crackers, olives, pickles, tortilla chips, popcorn, trail mix and even some protein and granola bars.

Include Some Canned Good

Canned foods sometimes get a bad rep, but they’re actually great for a quick healthy lunch or dinner. Having a variety of beans are key for a quick source of protein and fiber in any meal. Plus you can include canned tomatoes, coconut milk, some broth and some flavor enhancers like canned or jarred peppers and pickles to add flavor and veggies to foods.

Want a more personalized pantry plan? Book an appointment for a full pantry assessment and revamp. It can all be done online!