Participants will receive

• Personalized Nutrition Program
  Participants will be assigned to follow one of two promising dietary approaches:

  • 1. A very low carbohydrate ("keto") diet, which limits sugars and starches.
  • 2. The DASH diet, which includes whole grains, lower-fat dairy, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
• Support from a Dedicated Coach
  A nutrition coach will offer guidance, motivation, and tips on sustaining healthy lifestyle changes.
• Online Resources
  Access to videos, text messages, cookbooks, and other resources designed to support you through the process.
• Financial Compensation
  Eligible participants will receive up to $175 for completing all study assessments.

Who can participate?

We are seeking individuals who meet the following criteria:

• Adults aged 21-45.
• Have been diagnosed with PCOS or experience infrequent/irregular periods without a formal diagnosis.
• Willing to commit to a 12-month study period.

FAQs

Why is nutrition being studied for PCOS?
Emerging research suggests that dietary changes can influence insulin, insulin resistance, inflammation, testosterone, and other factors that are linked to PCOS symptoms. This study aims to build on that knowledge.

What is the ketogenic diet?
The ketogenic diet is a low-carbohydrate, high-fat eating plan designed to promote a metabolic state called ketosis, where your body uses fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. Our program also excludes dairy as an additional approach for lowering insulin levels.

What is the DASH diet?
The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy, with reduced sodium intake.

What if I have never tried a ketogenic or DASH diet before?
No experience is required. We will provide all the resources you need, including recipes, guides, and one-on-one coaching.

Can I choose which diet I follow?
No, to maintain the integrity of the research, participants cannot choose their assigned diet. Both diets are scientifically valid approaches, and you’ll receive comprehensive support regardless of your assignment.

Do I need a formal PCOS diagnosis to participate?
No, participants do not need to already have a diagnosis of PCOS. We will be diagnosing possible participants as part of the screening process.

Do I need to live near a study center?
No, the SUPER Study is conducted mostly online. You’ll participate from the comfort of your own home. You will need to live in the United States and near one of the many Labcorp locations. https://www.labcorp.com/labs-and-appointments

Are there any costs to participate?
There are no costs to join the trial, but participants are responsible for purchasing their own food.

How will my PCOS symptoms be measured?
You’ll complete online questionnaires throughout the study to track your symptoms, in addition to having blood tests at baseline, 4, and 12 months.

Will I meet other participants?
Yes, each month there is an optional question and answer session with all of the other participants who have been assigned to your way of eating, plus your coach.

What is the compensation amount?
Participants who complete the study will receive up to $175 as well as free results from their blood tests that are conducted as part of the trial at Labcorp.

Click here to read the consent form for more details about study participation.