A nutritionists' job is more than just creating delicious and nutritious recipes (although we do tons of that too!), but it's also about educating people on some common conditions that can be improved by altering your diet.
PCOS is a disease that is sensitive to the types of food we eat, which is why we specialize in PCOS nutrition.
PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. It is a condition that happens when the ovaries release an increased amount of male sex hormones, like androgens and testosterone. This is what causes an increase in excess facial and body hair.
Oftentimes, women with PCOS will have polycystic ovaries, which is when the ovaries become enlarged and contain fluid-filled sacs, also known as follicles. These follicles contain immature eggs, which never mature enough for the woman to ovulate. PCOS also causes irregular periods, which reduces the frequency of ovulation, leading to difficulties in getting pregnant, and potential infertility.
Causes of PCOS
PCOS has four main root causes.
Inflammation⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Insulin resistance⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Gut imbalances⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Hormone imbalance⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Each cause has its own science behind it, and there are certain foods & nutrients one can eat to reduce the severity of each type of PCOS cause.
Symptoms of PCOS
A number of symptoms can indicate that one has PCOS, though you need not have all of them. Similarly, just because you have some of these symptoms, doesn't mean you have PCOS. Other conditions, such as Hashimoto's disease, can have similar symptoms. We will cover Hashimoto's in the future.
The following symptoms are often associated with PCOS:
Hair loss
Acne or oily skin
Irregular periods
Difficulty getting pregnant
Increased carb cravings
Facial hair
No periods at all
Weight gain
Bottom line
Although there is no known cure for PCOS, there are many ways to reduce the symptoms. This is where nutritionists come in!
By making dietary and lifestyle adjustments, these symptoms can be seriously reduced. We work with our clients to figure out what type of PCOS you have, and decide on a meal plan that is tailored to you and your needs.
We currently have a plan available specifically for PCOS if you want to work with us! Click the button below to be redirected there.
Over on our Instagram, we have a number of easy to digest infographics (if you're more of a visual learner!), so click here to go to our page, @lorrainekearneynutrition!
Over the next few weeks, we will be discussing each cause of PCOS a little more in depth, and this includes certain nutrients you can eat to reduce the symptoms of each cause. Keep an eye out on our blog every Tuesday!⠀⠀⠀⠀
