POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME (PCOS)
TREATING PCOS NATURALLY
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal endocrine disorder that manifests itself through a range of symptoms, including:
Irregular or absent menstruation;
Lack of ovulation;
Multiple cysts on the ovaries;
Acne;
Excessive facial hair (hirsutism);
Obesity – however, many women with PCOS are of normal weight and therefore this is referred to as lean PCOS.
PCOS is one of the leading reasons behind female infertility and it also increases the likelihood of miscarriage and infant death during or shortly after birth. Additionally, PCOS can lead to serious health issues, including endometrial cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease and diabetes AND because of the above is on the Metabolic Syndrome Spectrum.
Causes:
Higher than normal levels of male hormone – particularly testosterone;
Lower than normal levels of female hormone progesterone;
Elevated levels of prolactin;
Abnormal insulin regulation.
Excessive comsumption of sugar and or refined carbohydrates.
Aggravating factors:
Inherited
Diet
Abdominal weight gain
Age
Lack of exercise
Smoking
40% have an eating disorder
Impact:
Hyperinsulinaemia (excess levels of insulin circulating in the blood relative to the level of glucose) is thought to be the primary trigger for:
ovarian ‘cysts’ and infertility;
cycle irregularity;
hirsutism;
increased risk of type2 diabetes;
lipid abnormalities.
What's the next step:
Dietary and supplements
Ensuring healthy liver function is crucial to the breakdown of excess hormones;
Reducing alcohol in take - alcohol challenges blood sugar regulation, at the same time as putting more pressure on the liver;
Unless underweight, regular and moderate exercise and resultant weight loss is paramount as it reduces insulin and testosterone levels – and has been shown to provide dramatic relief for PCOS symptoms – weight loss alone has led to achievement of pregnancy in 60% of cases without any medical intervention;
Low-carb, whole food diets also have been shown to reduce insulin resistance and testosterone levels in women with PCOS.
No refined carbohydrates and a reduced total carbohydrate intake – use low GI foods (< 50) instead;
Chromium increases insulin sensitivity:
Magnesium: - Plasma magnesium is inversely related to insulin sensitivity;
Population studies show that a high daily magnesium intake is associated with a lower
incidence of type 2 diabetes, and low serum magnesium with a higher incidence.
PCOS women have significantly lower serum and total magnesium;
Omega 3 EFA’s improve insulin sensitivity:
Omega 3 EFAs are incorporated into the phospholipids of cell membranes;
High levels of omega 3 EFAs improve insulin sensitivity and insulin transport through
membranes;
Much can be done to reverse this condition with the correct treatment of diet and specific supplements and under the guidance of a trained practitioner. Call Rebecca for more information in regards to your specific symptoms, alternatively book a naturopathic consultation online.
