If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, one of the ways your doctor may have recommended managing and improving your symptoms, may be weight loss.

Cutting calories and losing weight can be difficult - and it can be a constant struggle for many of us. The truth is, eating healthier can be an effort and it can take time and head-space to ensure you’re cooking & buying the right things.

Here are a few tips to help you easily cut down on calories:

Tip 1: Look for lower-calorie options

Sound simple, but many of us forget to simply look for lower calorie options. For example, if you’re a carb-lover, did you know you can now buy ‘bagel thins’ which are slightly smaller than normal bagels, and half the calories of normal bagels too? Think about swapping out your full-fat version for half fat versions too - usually they don’t taste any different, and when added together, the difference can make a big change.

Tip 2: Cut out meat a few days a week

If you can cut out meat from a few of your meals each week - you’ll likely cut down on quite a few calories. Try replacing meat with lentils or beans or try out vegetarian alternatives such as tofu or quorn.

Tip 3: Don’t keep snacks in the house

If you know you have a vice or a weakness - just don’t buy them! We know it’s easier said than done, but it’s much easier to avoid something if you don’t buy it in the first place. If you have a treat drawer or a cheat cupboard full of tasty treats - empty it out so you won’t be tempted.

Tip 4: Cut down on condiments

There are loads of low-sugar sauces available now, and even some super low-calories sauces too. These are a great option for adding extra flavour - especially over the full-fat versions.

Tip 5: Switch to diet sodas (or cut out fizzy drinks)

If you still drink full-fat coca cola, or if you drink sugary cordials like Ribena, you could be drinking between 100 and 400 calories a day! Just cutting this out and replacing them with sugar-free versions or diet versions could really have an impact on your calorie deficit at the end of the week.