by Sue Bedford MSc Nutritional Therapy
Can you summarise for us what PCOS means?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries develop harmless cysts around the edges, containing eggs that have not developed properly and in which the ovaries do not regularly release eggs (ovulate).
What are the main symptoms of PCOS?
Some of the main symptoms of PCOS are: irregular or light periods, difficulty becoming pregnant, weight problems, skin problems, depression and mood changes and excessive hair growth. However, not all women develop symptoms and the causes of PCOS are not completely clear. What is known though is that if you have a resistance to insulin, you will be more susceptible.
Can you tell us what Insulin resistance means?
Insulin is a hormone which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin’s role is to control the amount of sugar in the blood. It targets particularly muscle cells and the liver, causing them to absorb more glucose from the blood where it is either broken down to produce energy or converted into long term energy stores.
Many women with PCOS are often insulin resistant, whereby the tissues in the body become resistant to the effects of insulin and as a result the body attempts to compensate for this by producing more insulin. It is thought that this high level of insulin causes the ovaries to produce testosterone.
The raised levels of testosterone (along with high insulin levels) can the lead to some of the symptoms associated with PCOS, such as problems with ovulation, period problems and excess hair growth.
Insulin resistance can also lead to weight gain. A vicious circle often begins, as excess fat in the body causes the body to make more insulin and further weight is then gained.
What can you do to help yourself if you are experiencing these symptoms?
It is important to try to maintain a healthy weight for those who suffer from PCOS as an increase in weight can lead to the symptoms becoming worse. This can sometimes be more difficult for those who suffer from PCOS due to hormone levels. A good diet and regular exercise is therefore a priority in order to help to lower insulin levels.
As a qualified Nutritional Therapist specialising in fertility and women’s health I always follow an holistic approach with my clients and take each individual’s presenting symptoms into consideration when providing personalised nutritional therapy recommendations.
There are 3 main areas that I always take into consideration in relation to PCOS:
Symptom management,
Addressing any underlying causes
Wellness and prevention (on going support).
These stages all involve balancing hormones, supporting blood sugar balance, reducing and managing weight (if applicable) and supporting the adrenal glands. It is important to note that although some general ‘tips’ and advice can be provided in this article, one size does not fit all when it comes to health, fertility, nutrition and lifestyle so it is a good idea to invest in a personalised plan from the start that is tailored to your own needs as this will help you to achieve the best outcome for you. If in any doubt please seek advice from a qualified Nutritional Therapist or Dietician, your GP, Endocrinologist or Consultant.
If you suffer with PCOS try to AVOID:
Alcohol as this puts stress on the liver- making it less efficient at processing/removing excess hormones
Carbohydrates with a high Glycemic Load (GL) as this will help to keep your insulin levels down. Avoid white, refined carbohydrates, processed and packaged foods and sugar (eliminate cakes, biscuits, soft drinks etc).
Caffeine (may affect oestrogen levels)
Trans fatty acids and high levels of saturated fats as these can cause inflammation- which can worsen insulin resistance
But try to INCREASE:
Omega 3 foods such as oily fish, flaxseeds, as these help to reduce inflammation
Fibre as this helps to prevent insulin spikes
Chromium rich foods as these are thought to make insulin more efficient as it helps to promote the production of glucose tolerance factor (GTF), a substance released by the liver which helps to make insulin more efficient. Since the body does not produce it, chromium must be obtained through food. It’s main functions are to help maintain normal blood sugar and insulin levels and to support the maintenance of adequate cholesterol levels. This is important re weight management and balancing blood sugar levels. Good sources include: Onions, Tomatoes, Broccoli, Green Beans, Oysters, Whole grains, Bran cereal, Potatoes, Lean meat, Cheese, Black pepper, Thyme.
Vitamin B rich foods to help control sugar and fat levels
Protein foods such as eggs, fish, chicken, meat, nuts, pulses to help with the regulation of insulin levels
Foods with a low GL in order to keep blood sugar levels stable and prevent insulin spikes and may also aid in weight loss.
Balance protein and carbohydrate foods at each meal
And what about supplements?
As part of a Nutritional Therapy Program, I may suggest a few important supplements to aid in the treatment of PCOS (depending on the individual and their specific needs). Individual requirements must be taken into account, including any current medications and supplements, as well as medical and nutritional history, to verify that there are no contraindications.
A high- quality multivitamin and mineral – to balance and support. This will include key nutrients to help fill in any nutrient gap – including zinc, chromium, vitamins D and B. It will also provide key nutrients to help re blood sugar balance, carbohydrate metabolism and in the regulation of insulin.
Omega 3 – to help balance the ratio of omeg3: omega 6 and reduce inflammation.
Magnesium -to help increase insulin sensitivity.
Inositol (with folic acid) – Inositol is part of the B vitamin group that can help improve insulin resistance. It’s also been found to help with fertility in some cases of PCOS. It is found naturally in fruit, grains, nuts, beans and organ meats.
A probiotic -to help absorb nutrients more efficiently, reduce inflammation and help to regulate hormones.
Individual ‘bolt on’ supplements, such as co q10, iron, zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, chromium (if you are on medication and diabetic, speak with your GP before taking chromium), and others, may be required depending on the individual and if there are nutrient deficiencies identified.
Exercise
There is evidence to suggest that increasing the amount of exercise (around 3 hours of aerobic exercise per week) can improve insulin sensitivity, cholesterol levels and visceral fat. Researchers found that women with PCOS who did 3 hours of aerobic exercise per week for 12 weeks had improved insulin sensitivity, cholesterol and visceral fat even though they did not lose any weight (Hutchinson, S. et al., 2011). Researchers have also discovered that exercise can also reduce inflammation in those with PCOS (Danadona, P. et al., 2004).
What else can I do?
Try to reduce stress as much as possible as adrenaline can make PCOS worse.
To book a personalised Nutritional Therapy consultation with Sue or for more details please email her sbnutrition@btinternet.com or head to the babble fertility shop to learn more.
Comprehensive nutritional consultation with leading fertility nutritionist, Sue Bedford
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