Reading · Mood Food with Dr. Uma Naidoo MD

Hey MoodFoodie,

I hear about PCOS from so many clients and colleagues – and there are many connections to mental well-being. I was therefore very interested when a landmark global consensus process published in The Lancet. For this reason, since June 2026 doctors and researchers from around the world agreed to rename “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome” (PCOS) to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). If you were previously diagnosed with PCOS, your diagnosis has not changed — it simply has a new, more accurate name.

The name PCOS was misleading in a few important ways:

There are no actual “cysts” on the ovaries. What were called “cysts” are really small fluid-filled follicles (tiny sacs that hold eggs). These are not harmful cysts that need to be removed.
And It’s not just about the ovaries. The condition involves hormones, metabolism, mental health, skin, and more. The old name made it sound like it was only a reproductive problem, which led many people — and even some doctors — to overlook the bigger picture.
The prior name caused confusion and often stigma which I’ve seen often in clinical practice and research. In surveys that were conducted most patients said the name was confusing and wanted it changed. This is both relevant and helpful for doctors to know.

So what does this all mean?

Each part of “Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome” reflects a key aspect of the condition:

Polyendocrine — this means that multiple hormones are involved, not just one. This includes hormones that affect your periods, skin, hair, weight, and mood.
Metabolic — the clinical condition affects how your body processes sugar and energy, which is why it can raise your risk for things like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Ovarian — while the ovaries are still part of the picture, but they are just a piece of this puzzle.

Does this change anything for someone with PCOS/PMOS?

No it does not! A treatment plan will remain the same. Nothing about how the condition is medically treated has changed. But doctors may see both names used for a while. Doctors, medical providers, insurance companies, and health systems/hospitals are transitioning gradually, so you might see “PCOS” and “PMOS” used interchangeably during this period. Overall in my medical opinion this is very good news. Greater clinical accuracy means that doctors better understand and treat the entire condition, and it can potentially mean earlier diagnosis for others in the future.

Clinically about 1 in 8 women are affected. Many go undiagnosed for years, partly because the old name led people to think of it as only a fertility issue. The new name is a step toward changing that.

This change also emphasizes that the condition is multisystem (not just ovarian) and the reassurance about diagnostic criteria remaining unchanged aligns with the 2023 international evidence-based guidelines.

For Mental Clarity Kitchen members, I will share more about how to eat better if you, a friend or family member has this condition.

Warmly,
Dr. Uma

_{In Partnership with Pique}

PS: Did you know that your liver plays a vital role in processing toxins, metabolizing hormones, and supporting overall health? While the body naturally detoxifies itself, daily habits like eating fiber-rich foods, staying hydrated, prioritizing sleep, and managing stress can help support these important pathways.

One tool I’ve been enjoying lately is Pique’s Liver Detox Duo. This tea-based system is designed to complement your wellness routine with ingredients that support healthy liver function and the body’s natural detoxification processes. I love starting the morning with Electric Turmeric to ground and support the body, and winding down in the evening with La Ginger to aid digestion and overnight renewal.

Remember: no supplement replaces a nutrient-dense diet, but when paired with healthy lifestyle habits, targeted support can help you feel your best from the inside out.

I am excited that Pique is currently offering 20% off for life plus a free Starter Kit (which includes a rechargeable frother and glass beaker), along with a 90-day money-back guarantee—so you can try it risk-free. Click here to use my link!

Have you read my latest book, Calm Your Mind with Food? Calm Your Mind with Food is a revolutionary full-body approach to relieving anxiety and includes anti-anxiety recipes and meal plan guidelines.

If you haven’t gotten your copy already, get yours here:

UK Edition

I am also excited to share my new companion workbook, The Mood Food Workbook, that was designed to work alongside, Calm Your Mind With Food, to help you put its recipes and principles into practice in a structured, supportive way. Click here to get my workbook today.

Medscape: I was asked to comment on the ketogenic diet here.

USA Today: Can dark chocolate lower cholesterol? I explain here.

Maria Shriver Sunday Paper: What is in my kitchen? Check it out here!

I am delighted that you are here

PCOS Is Now PMOS—And It's Changing How We Think About Women's Health

Comments