Propolis supplementation positively influences metabolic factors, testosterone levels, lipid profile, and body measurements in women suffering from polycystic ovarian syndrome.
The research was a triple-blind controlled trial constructed to consider the effects of propolis on women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. The participants, who were patients from a gynecology clinic, were randomly divided, following a structured randomization procedure, into two groups. One group was assigned to consume propolis tablets twice daily, amounting to 500 mg of propolis each day, while the other group received placebo tablets that were identical in appearance. This trial took place over the course of 12 weeks in the timeframe of 2021 to 2022. Information was gathered with the help of a demographic questionnaire, blood samples from the participants, and a checklist that helped record the parameters measured.
In discussing results, it was noted that several key factors showed significant difference between the propolis and placebo groups. Hip circumference, fasting insulin, insulin resistance, testosterone levels, and low-density to high-density lipoprotein ratios were all seen to drop considerably in the group that received propolis, showing the potential benefits of this natural supplement. Despite an initial decrease in fasting blood sugar levels in the propolis group, the significance of this change was reduced after adjusting for other factors. Conclusively, the evidence points towards notable benefits of propolis, providing support for its usage in managing polycystic ovarian syndrome.
