Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a hormone disorder characterised by the accumulation of what appears to be numerous fluid-filled cysts on the ovaries. These develop over time as the ova (eggs) fail to mature, then release during the menstrual cycle. This causes multiple immature ova to be visible on ultrasound, which are mistakenly called cysts.
PCOS & Weight LossMost health professionals now accept the underlying cause of PCOS is insulin resistance syndrome, a condition that leads to poor blood sugar control and weight gain. Insulin resistance syndrome is common in both overweight and non-overweight women with PCOS. The insulin resistance syndrome connection is the reason why Metformin, the oral diabetic medication is now routinely prescribed for PCOS. The use of Metformin decreases insulin levels, leading to improvements in the menstrual cycle. A healthy diet and regular exercise are also recommended along with this strategy. Medical Investigation Your doctor or Gynecologist will usually order a range of pathology tests and investigations to confirm a diagnosis of PCOS. An ultrasound is usually done to see if the ovaries contain multiple immature ova. If the diagnosis is unclear, a laparoscopy may be performed to view the reproductive organs. The Insulin Resistance Connection Insulin is a major hormone produced by the pancreas to assist energy production. This hormone plays a key role in transporting blood sugar into the cells where it is rapidly used to power up your body. Today, the average diet is too high in sugary foods which cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This places greater demand on the ability of insulin to control blood sugar levels. More and more insulin is pumped out to make sure blood sugar in the bloodstream does not spiral out of control. Over time this situation leads to insulin resistance syndrome, a common condition where your body is no longer able to control your blood sugar levels. Fatigue, weight gain, and sugar cravings are the common signs of insulin resistance syndrome. These symptoms result when the cells stop responding to the increased insulin and the liver starts converting unused blood sugar into body fat. A diet high in refined carbohydrates leads to insulin resistance syndrome putting you at risk of developing PCOS. Elevated insulin levels promote androgen production. It is these androgens, or male-type hormones, that prevent maturation & release of the ovum from the ovaries. Over time this results in lowered fertility and other menstrual problems. The distressing physical signs of PCOS, such as acne, skin pigmentation and excess body hair are also due to excessive androgen levels. The Natural PCOS Diet
Learn more about holistic solutions to help overcome PCOS with Jenny Blondel. As an experienced Naturopath specialising in hormone health, Jenny is a credible expert on PCOS. Her new e-book The Natural PCOS Diet is now available for instant download. Click here for more information: The Natural PCOS Diet: A Naturopath’s Easy Step-by-Step Guide to Overcoming PCOS.
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