Rhode Island Nutrition Therapy

View Original

All About Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

What is PCOS? Let’s Break It Down!

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects people with ovaries, usually in their reproductive years. Think of it as a hormone mix-up that can cause a whole bunch of frustrating symptoms, like irregular periods, acne, thinning hair, weight gain, and even trouble getting pregnant. Oh, and those cysts you hear about? Yep, many people with PCOS develop tiny cysts on their ovaries, but they’re not the main issue—it’s all about that hormone imbalance.

So, what’s behind PCOS? It’s not totally clear, but things like insulin resistance, genetics, and inflammation are all likely culprits. The upside? It can be managed with some healthy lifestyle changes, including a good diet and regular exercise. Let’s dive into how!

Common Signs You Might Have PCOS

Wondering if you might have PCOS? Here’s what to look out for:

- Irregular or missed periods

- Extra body hair in places like the chest, back, or stomach

- Weight gain, especially around the belly

- Acne or oily skin

- Thinning hair or bald spots

- Trouble getting pregnant

- Skin tags (small bits of extra skin) on your neck or armpits

- Dark patches of skin on the neck or underarms

How Food Can Help

Good news: what you eat can make a big difference in managing PCOS! Here’s what your plate should look like:

- Load up on veggies and fruits: Go for low glycemic, non-starchy ones like leafy greens, broccoli, and berries.

- Healthy fats are your friends: Think salmon, olive oil, nuts, and seeds.

- Lean meats and whole grains: These can keep you full without spiking blood sugar.

- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and keep alcohol to a minimum.

Move Your Body, Feel Better

Exercise is a huge part of managing PCOS. Aim for at least 120 minutes of active time each week, whether it's dancing, running, or swimming—whatever you enjoy. Throw in some strength training to help with insulin sensitivity, too. Even just moving more every day—walking, stretching, or light cardio—can help you feel better.

With the right combo of food, movement, and self-care, PCOS doesn’t have to slow you down. Find what works for you and take it one step at a time!

Supplement Protocol

  • Biomega-1000

    • Biomega-1000™ provides a potent dose of omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs), sourced from a strategically-placed facility in the far South Pacific Ocean off the coast of Chile, guaranteeing the freshest raw material available, full traceability of the product, and unparalleled purity. Each capsule delivers an impressive 1,000 mg of EPA and DHA, making it the ideal choice for therapeutic dosing.

  • Berberine 500mg

    • 500 mg Berberine Supplement for Metabolic SupportBerberine is an active constituent of many plants including Phellodendron amurense root. Berberine activates adenosine monophosphate kinase (AMPK). AMPK is activated through various mechanisms including exercise to support glucose metabolism via an insulin-independent mechanism. Berberine has been the subject of human, randomized placebo-controlled trials.

  • Chromium (Picolinate) 200mcg

    • Chromium picolinate supports fat metabolism, enzyme activation and glucose support to facilitate healthy lipid and carbohydrate utilization.

    • Supports glucose and lipid metabolism.

  • Myo-Inositol PLus

    • Myo-Inositol Plus provides the two most common, naturally occurring, and complementary forms of inositol: myoinositol and D-chiro-inositol. Both forms of inositol have been shown to support ovarian, metabolic, and endocrine function in women.

  • Vitamin D3 with K2

    • Supports Healthy Blood Circulation. Promotes Bone Health and Proper Calcium Storage.

    • Maintains Healthy Cardiometabolic Function and Supports Blood Sugar Balance Already Within Normal Levels.

    • Boosts Immune Function.

Have more questions? Contact us for a consult!