A Functional Medicine Approach To PCOS
What Is PCOS?
You probably are not aware of PCOS or have already been diagnosed with PCOS. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women. In the US population, it is estimated to be affecting as many as 5 million (6% to 10%). The first step to improving PCOS symptoms is identifying what lifestyle changes may benefit you.
Are you experiencing irregular monthly periods, weight gain, acne or abnormal hair growth? What about cravings or even binge eating? Have you been having issues with sleeping and irregularities with your circadian rhythm? You may be experiencing PCOS symptoms.
PCOS does not affect only child-bearing age women. It is getting in the way of experiencing a happy, healthy life far beyond the child-bearing years. And on top of that, more than half women with PCOS develop type 2 diabetes by age 40.
A Functional Medicine approach helps identify the main root cause which could be linked to a sedentary lifestyle, stress, poor circadian rhythm, inflammatory food choices, gut health or even genetics.
PCOS Symptoms
The actual causes of PCOS aren’t clear and varies from person to person. They could be linked to family history, as well as your particular lifestyle, but we know PCOS as being linked primarily to hormonal imbalance causing many symptoms including:
- Menstrual irregularities or the absence of cycles
- Ovulation rates are reduced
- Excess hair growth
- Weight gain
- Cravings and binge eating
- Gut challenges
- Low mood including anxiety
- Increase risk of Type 2 diabetes (insulin resistant)
- Heart disease (risk increasing with age)
- High blood pressure (damaging heart, brain, and kidneys)
- Sleep issues
- Acne
What Can We Do About Improving PCOS Symptoms?
The very first step is to confirm with a Functional Medicine doctor that you have PCOS and have been tested for type 2 diabetes. If you are not working with one, find a practitioner here.
After discussing all your options with your health care provider, changes in your lifestyle are definitely something available in your hands right now. Especially if you experience weight gain due to unhealthy habits and irregular physical activity.
Interested in identifying the root cause of your unique situation related to PCOS? I can help you work with your practitioner to identify the root cause and design a realistic individual plan to help you achieve your health goals with a simple, low-stress approach that fits your current busy lifestyle.
Why wait? Let’s do something about it today! Please request a call to go through your unique plan by filling out the form below, or book a day and time that fits your schedule here.
