Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects anywhere between 1 in 10 and 1 in 20 women, with as many as 5 million women of child-bearing age in the U.S. alone affected by PCOS. The condition comes with a laundry list of symptoms that can affect the menstrual cycle, hormonal balance, heart, and even a woman’s ability to have children. Women with PCOS tend to experience higher than normal levels of androgen, which is a hormone more common in men, although the female body does produces it in limited levels.
Common Symptoms of PCOS
Physical changes are very common, which is not surprising when you consider the increase in the androgen (male hormone) levels.
- Increased facial hair growth that may appear as a mustache. Hair growth on the nipples of the breast tissue and/or between the belly button to the pubic bone (also known as a happy trail)
- Weight gain, usually around the mid-section
- Painful ovulation.
The Role of Nutrition and PCOS
The liver, ovaries, pituitary, adrenals and pancreas are exhausted in most people with PCOS. Irregular insulin and cortisol patterns are also linked to PCOS. To restore blood sugar balance and optimal organ function, it is best to adopt a whole foods diet with strict avoidance to sugars, starches and refined grains. The body requires whole food nutrition and many of us simply don’t receive enough nutrition in our daily lives as we rely far too often on processed foods. Whole foods help to restore organ function and allow the body to heal itself.
Foods to Include in Your Diet
- Beets & Beet Leaves – Rich in betaine and methyl donors to strengthen liver, gallbladder, kidney and muscle function.
- Pancreatic enzymes – It most people afflicted with PCOS have insufficiently performing pancreas glands. Pancreatic enzymes are capable of digesting proteins.
- Black Currant Seed oil – A rich source of Omega-6 fatty acids required as a precursor to the formation of female hormones such as progesterone.
- Chaste Tree –A fruit rich in flavonoids, iridoid glycosides, diterpenes, sespuiterpenes to promot a natural, healthy balance within the female endocrine system (particularly in relation to supporting normal progesterone levels. Great support for normal reproductive function in women, especially the pituitary, adrenals and ovaries.
It is essential to reduce sugar intake as much as possible as well as increase the consumption of complete proteins and raw fats for sufficient essential amino acid and essential fatty acid intake. Processed foods and sugar can promote inflammation and worsen any health condition. Additionally, be sure to drink enough water for proper hydration.
Seeking Help
Speak with a holistic health care practitioner for your safest and most natural options. With proper diet filled with whole foods, you can restore organ function and reduce or eliminate your symptoms altogether. Find out more about this condition here in these helpful articles.