Supplements for PCOS to Improve Insulin Resistance

There is so much information online about the best supplements for insulin resistance in women with PCOS. Read this article to learn more about a safe and effective supplement to improve PCOS insulin resistance.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal and reproductive condition that involves multiple organs as well as a part of the brain such as the pineal gland or hypothalamus, parts of your metabolism, and hormones.

Polycystic ovary syndrome affects ~6-10% of women and typical PCOS symptoms such as insulin resistance, irregular periods, infertility, high androgen levels, as well as cysts on the ovaries (1).

It's estimated that up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed (1)!

PCOS is a complex hormonal syndrome that can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, weight gain, and difficulty losing weight.

Other polycystic ovary syndrome symptoms

Other PCOS symptoms may include hair loss, fatigue, acne, excess hair growth, and mood changes.

It can also make it harder for people to get pregnant and can negatively affect their mental health if left untreated.

The symptoms of PCOS can be both disrupting and uncomfortable

Many women with PCOS feel they don't belong to their bodies.

Women with PCOS can also feel incredibly isolated as many of their friends or family may be unaware of the condition and how it affects women's bodies.

All Women with PCOS Need to Get Professional Medical Advice

PCOS can affect your entire body, not just the ovaries!

The condition is often associated with fertility issues but it also leads to other chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, insulin resistance, heart disease, and sleep disorders.

That is why early detection and diagnosis of PCOS with a physical exam and blood tests is so important, even if you are not planning on getting pregnant!

Tell me the cause of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)?

The exact cause of polycystic ovary syndrome is not known.

There appears to be a genetic link but to make matters more complicated, there is no 1 gene that is linked to PCOS but rather multiple gene combinations meaning that polycystic ovarian syndrome is considered a "poly-genetic" syndrome.

Women with PCOS may have a female family member with polycystic ovary syndrome or have a male family member who has early hair loss or balding. Women with PCOS may also have family members with diabetes.

PCOS symptoms are driven by insulin resistance, high levels of androgen hormones, and chronic inflammation.

PCOS is not caused by weight gain or a diet that is higher in sugar or highly processed foods!!! You did not cause your PCOS.

How To Beat PCOS?

You cannot cure or beat polycystic ovary syndrome; however, you can learn how to manage polycystic ovary syndrome! Even weight loss or menopause cannot cure PCOS.

While a healthy diet can be effective in reducing PCOS symptoms, a lifestyle change is also important to manage polycystic ovary syndrome.

Women with PCOS can manage their polycystic ovary syndrome through lowering stress, making sustainable nutrition changes, balancing blood sugar, and adding safe supplements for PCOS.

You do not have to pursue weight loss to improve insulin resistance and hormonal imbalance.

Can an anti inflammatory diet help PCOS?

Nutrition changes can help polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)!

An anti inflammatory diet includes any diet that is higher in nutrient-rich and minimally processed foods can have a positive effect on gut health, blood sugar control, improve insulin sensitivity, and balancing hormones.

But it is important to remember that any nutrition changes you make need to fit into your values, goals, culture, and preferences!

There is no 1 diet that has been proven through randomized controlled trials to be the best diet for polycystic ovary syndrome so you have a lot of options!

Choosing the right supplements for PCOS

Supplements for PCOS are not a cure but can be highly beneficial for women with PCOS alongside nutrition, lifestyle, and medical treatments.

Some supplements for PCOS are highly potent and powerful herbal medicine; it is important that you get professional medical advice before you take any herbal medicine or even some vitamin supplements as well.

I recommend working with a Dietitian who focuses on polycystic ovary syndrome in addition to checking with your doctor and pharmacist (especially if you are taking any other medications).

In addition to getting professional medical advice, not all supplements for PCOS are created equally in terms of quality and safety.

Supplement safety includes where the vitamin or herbal medicine is sourced, the factory it is produced, and whether there are any contaminants in the supplement as well.

Just because it is natural, it does not mean it is automatically safer!