September is Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month, so what better way to kick off our “Let’s Chat” series than discussing PCOS?!
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, is a condition that is characterized by a group of symptoms that consistently occur together. These symptoms are a result of an underlying hormonal imbalance within the body, affecting approximately 2 to 26.7% of women of childbearing age (ages 15-44). It is estimated that around 70% of those with PCOS have not been diagnosed.
Those with PCOS often produce more androgens (a male sex hormones) than normal and can also experience irregular or skipped periods, as well as cysts on the ovaries (polycistic meaning “many cysts”). Though these are not the only symptoms of PCOS they are the main ones. Other symptoms may include; abnormal hair growth (facial hair and hair on the stomach are the most common), heavy and/or painful periods, difficulty losing or maintaining weight, hair loss, headaches, ance, and dark patches of skin. A common side effect of PCOS is insulin resistance, a condition where the body can’t use insulin correctly to regulate glucose levels. As a result the pancreas tries to compensate by producing more insulin, which triggers the release of more androgens, over time this can lead to type 2 diabetes. Other possible complications of PCOS include; sleep apnea, depression and anxiety, heart disease, and it’s one of the leading causes of infertility in women.
PCOS, and its symptoms, are manageable through diet and lifestyle changes. At Nourishing Abundance we believe in a holistic approach that begins with balancing blood sugars. Ways you can help your blood sugars include eating a protein rich breakfast, reducing alcohol consumption, and incorporating more vegetables in your diet. We also recommend moving your body. You don’t have to work out necessarily, but move your body, have a dance party in your kitchen while making dinner, go for a walk around your neighborhood, or try a few yoga poses. Moving your body is a great way to show your body some love, as well as loosen up stiffness, and help get things moving internally as well.