PCOS is a very common diagnosis for women of childbearing age, and it can take patience and perseverance to get under control.
PCOS Symptoms include:
~ Weight gain
~ Fatigue
~ Acne
~ Excess facial hair and body hair
~ Fatigue
~ Dull complexion
~ Fertility problems
It is extremely important for women to manage their PCOS, because it puts women at higher risk for cancer, high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease.
One of the most direct ways we can influence our hormones is through our food choices. Food choices can greatly reduce the symptoms, and can be especially helpful for the 60% of women diagnosed with PCOS who are overweight.
A malfunction in the body’s blood sugar system is common in PCOS. This malfunctioning insulin production causes an excess in androgens, or male hormones. As a result, Insulin resistance is an issue for most women with PCOS, and therefore balancing blood sugar is vital.
Tips to regulate blood sugar:
* avoid wheat and other refined carbohydrates that spike insulin
* when eating fruit, add a small amount of nuts or nut butters to slow the insulin response.
* eat within 1 hour of waking in the morning.
2. Remove excess estrogen from the diet. Too much estrogen in the body contributes to fibroids that cause pain in the body.
* best for PCOS sufferers to limit soy products
* consume an abundance of dark leafy greens and fibrous vegetables to help sweep excess estrogen.
* remove all plastics from your life.
3. Inflammation is another big concern for women with PCOS.
* dairy, refined grains, vegetable oils and animal proteins all lead to inflammation and should be removed from the diet.
HERBS AND VITAMINS FOR PCOS:
1. Chromium is a very important supplement for PCOS sufferers, because it encourages the formation of glucose tolerance factor.
2. B Vitamins: Specifically B2, B3, B5, and B6 are all critical in managing glucose in the body, healing the thyroid, and assisting the liver in breaking down the excess hormones and eliminating them.
3. Zinc: Important because it works with Vitamins A and E to produce thyroid hormone.
4. Saw Palmetto: This herb works as an anti-androgen to reduce the excess male hormones.
5. Angus Castus: This can be a very important herb in PCOS because it normalizes the pituitary gland, which controls production of the LH (luteinising hormone).
My PCOS protocol generally includes all or most of the above. Amounts vary based on individual circumstances. You should check with your nutritionist or naturopath to determine the plan of action that is best for you.
**Always check with your healthcare provider before taking any vitamin or herbal therapies, especially if you are on birth control pills, HRT, or any other medications.
