Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a female endocrine disorder that is characterize as a hormonal imbalance that affects a woman’s mind and body. The two main aspects of PCOS are
excess male hormones/androgens, which can prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg each month
insulin resistance, the hormone insulin does not work as efficiently in lowering blood glucose
The symptoms vary from woman to woman. Sometimes it's only symptom, other times, it's many. A common issue is trouble losing weight, but there is also a "lean" version of PCOS. Many women do not realize they have PCOS until they attempt to conceive and struggle with infertility. If left untreated, long term complications of PCOS can lead to heart disease, diabetes and endometrial cancer.
Signs & Symptoms:
- weight gain and/or trouble losing weight, weight tends to central obesity, "apple shape"
- irregular menstrual cycle or amenorrhea (absence of menstrual cycle)
- infertility or trouble conceiving
- thinning of hair
- hirutiusm
- acne
- depression
- anxiety
- cysts on ovaries
Treament:
- drugs typically used for Diabetes, such as Glucophage/Metformin
- androgen-lowering drugs, such as Spironolactone
- birth control to regulate menses
- acupuncture
- supplementation of inositol and other natural remedies
- diet
- exercise
Nutrition Intervention
Most women with PCOS cannot follow your "typical diet plan." I understand the special needs of having this syndrome and specialize in formulating a nutrition plan that directly treats signs and symptoms. I do not believe in counting calories or heavily restricting. I fit the plan so that it fits into your lifestyle and daily life. Do not hesitate to e-mail me for further info.