PCOS : What it is and how can nutritional therapy help?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that often appears during puberty and is characterised by a range of symptoms such as menstrual irregularities, excessive hair growth, acne, weight gain, skin darkening, and problems with fertility.
PCOS is diagnosed through a combination of a discussion with a GP about symptoms, medications, and medical conditions, and tests such as blood tests and pelvic ultrasounds to assess hormone levels and the number of follicles in the ovaries. However, because it can present as a syndrome of symptoms, it is poorly understood and often misdiagnosed.
The typical treatment offered by the NHS includes :
Contraceptive pill,
Recommendation to reduce BMI
Clomifene if you’re trying to conceive
Metformin to lower insulin levels
Topical skin creams for acne & excessive hair growth
However, these treatments do not address the root cause of PCOS and symptoms may persist over time.
Nutritional therapy takes a comprehensive approach to manage PCOS. In clinic, we may assess various factors such as diet, stress levels, menstrual cycle, digestive health, and energy levels. Further tests such as a comprehensive stool test, adrenal panel, thyroid panel, and sex hormone panel may also be conducted to understand your particular phenotype.
Pilates & Exercise
The aim of nutritional therapy is to support the body by decreasing central obesity, balancing hormones, reducing androgen levels, supporting gut health, and maintaining a balanced diet and lifestyle.
This may include:
Consuming balanced meals rich in Omega 3 fats (i.e. fish oit, EVOO)
High quality protein with most meals (i.e. grass-fed beef, organic tofu)
Low GI carbohydrates (i.e. sweet potato, beans, lentils, leafy green veg)
Reducing sugar intake
Drinking plenty of water
Reducing alcohol and coffee
Regular exercise routine (2-4 x per week)
Stress-reducing activities such as yoga or pilates
Improving gut health
Managing PCOS is a long-term process that requires a personalised approach, and listening to the body to find what works best.
If you’re looking for ways to manage PCOS or are planning to conceive and would like additional support in conjunction with allopathic treatment, please reach out to us.
Image: Matt Seymour (Cruciferous Veg)
