5 Chinese Medicine Dietary Suggestions for PCOS
Can you manage PCOS naturally through diet?
What is PCOS and what are the common presenting symptoms?
PCOS, or polycystic ovary syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that can impact both reproductive health as well as metabolic health. While there are varying presentations of PCOS, typically it presents with irregular ovulation and abnormal levels of androgens (male hormones), which impact female reproductive hormone levels. There may also be changes to the ovaries, in which small cysts will be present and cause hormonal irregularities.
The impact on the body can be widespread, and can cause irregular or absent menstrual cycles, infertility, abnormal hair growth, acne, weight gain, digestive discomfort, and mood changes. In a large number of PCOS cases, insulin resistance is also present, which causes high blood sugar and further impacts proper hormone production.
Treating PCOS naturally
The treatment of PCOS requires a multi-faceted approach given there are a variety of mechanisms at play. Typically the main goals of treatment, which may vary person to person, are:
Regulate hormones
Reduce stress and cortisol levels
Manage blood sugar imbalances and insulin resistance
Reduce inflammation
Strengthen digestion
Treating holistically means tapping into all areas of the body — mental, physical and emotional. Lifestyle changes, exercise, nutrition, herbal medicine and acupuncture are all utilized to reach these goals. Whether you’re trying to conceive, reduce unpleasant symptoms or get your menstrual cycle on track, it’s important to take a holistic approach in order to heal the root cause of imbalance, rather than place a bandaid on the problem. One way to start the healing process is by making changes to your food choices!
5 Holistic Nutritional Changes to Support PCOS Recovery
Eliminate inflammatory foods including sugar, processed foods, refined flour, and alcohol
Focus on high fiber meals
Increase lean animal protein, plant protein, as well as fruits and vegetables high in minerals and nutrients
Ensure adequate intake of healthy fats from omega-3 sources; limit intake of saturated fats
Eat in a present, mindful state
Takeaways…
Treatment for PCOS requires an individualized approach to best understand the root cause and what areas of your body need support. However, starting with these 5 key principles when it comes to what you eat and drink on a daily basis will provide a foundation for healing.
Follow the link to discuss how we can support your healing from PCOS. Begin naturally balancing your hormones today!