What this Trial Is About

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects one in five females of reproductive age and is often linked with infertility and increased risk factors for cardiovascular disease, such as insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and high blood pressure. Since cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among females in Canada, finding ways to improve heart health in those with PCOS is important. This research aims to evaluate whether taking an oral ketone supplement can improve cardiovascular health markers in females with PCOS. Participants will attend two separate visits where they will consume either a ketone monoester supplement or a placebo beverage. The ketone supplement dose will be based on body weight and mixed with water and vanilla-flavored stevia. The placebo will consist of water combined with a bitter flavor and vanilla-flavored stevia. This crossover design allows comparison of the effects of ketone supplementation versus placebo on cardiovascular health in females with PCOS and female controls matched for age and body mass index. During the study visits, participants will undergo an oral glucose tolerance test to assess blood sugar control, flow-mediated dilation testing to measure blood vessel function, and blood pressure monitoring. Researchers will also evaluate blood pressure responses during acute exercise. These tests will be done within hours after supplement ingestion to measure immediate effects. The study will track changes in blood sugar, blood pressure, and vascular function to understand how ketone supplementation impacts cardiovascular risk factors in PCOS.

Exogenous Ketone Supplementation in Females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome