Several minerals play roles in PCOS management. The evidence varies in strength.

Magnesium: • Involved in insulin signalling and glucose metabolism • Deficiency is common and associated with worse insulin resistance • May improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety • Forms: magnesium glycinate (best absorbed, least GI effects), magnesium citrate (good absorption, can cause loose stools) • Typical dose: 200-400 mg elemental magnesium daily

Zinc: • Has anti-androgen properties • May improve acne and hair loss • Involved in insulin signalling • Deficiency is common in PCOS • Typical dose: 25-50 mg daily (take with food to avoid nausea) • Important: long-term zinc supplementation can deplete copper — consider a supplement that includes copper, or get levels checked

Chromium: • Enhances insulin action • Some studies show improvements in fasting insulin and glucose in PCOS • Evidence is mixed — some studies show benefit, others don't • Forms: chromium picolinate is best studied • Typical dose: 200-1000 mcg daily

These minerals are generally safe at recommended doses and address common deficiencies in PCOS. They're unlikely to be dramatic game-changers on their own, but correcting deficiencies can support other treatments.