We have seen an increase of PCOS sufferers in our medical space recently and there seems to be a growing awareness surrounding this syndrome with many celebrities even coming forward to talk about their struggles. In fact, studies have shown that one in ten women suffer from PCOS. We wanted to investigate the symptoms of PCOS and provide natural solutions to assist those going through this struggle. Taking your health into your own hands is the first step to healing.
What is PCOS?
PCOS stands for polycystic ovary syndrome and is a condition that affects a woman’s hormone levels. Women with PCOS have higher then normal amounts of male hormones. This hormone imbalance can cause women to skip menstrual periods and have trouble falling pregnant. The reason for this is that the ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs. Elevated levels of male hormones may also result in physical signs such as facial hair, balding and acne.
What causes PCOS
There is still no specific reason for what causes PCOS but it may, in large part, be due to genetics. If any of your relatives such as your mom or sister have PCOS, there is a strong chance that you will have it too. PCOS may also be a result of insulin resistance. Insulins resistance means that the body’s tissues are resistant to the effects of insulin. The body then produces extra insulin to compensate. High levels of insulin cause the ovaries to produce too much testosterone, which interferes with the development of the follicles and prevents normal ovulation. Insulin resistance can also lead to weight gain which can further worsen the symptoms of PCOS.
Symptoms of PCOS
You may be suffering from PCOS if you have the following symptoms:
- Irregular periods or no periods
- Hair loss
- Facial hair
- Weight gain
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Oily skin or acne
- Dark patches on the skin
- Headaches
Your doctor may diagnose you with PCOS if you have three or more of these symptoms. A pelvic exam can also be done to check for growths in your ovaries or uterus. A blood test can also show if you have higher-then-normal levels of male hormones. An ultrasound can be used to look for abnormal follicles.
Medical treatments
Unfortunately, the most common treatments for PCOS involve heavy doses of medication that comes with negative side effects. Birth control pills can be taken to regulate estrogen levels however, increased estrogen can lead to weight gain and mood swings. Metformin can be taken to lower insulin levels but can cause physical weakness and diarrhoea. There are a number of other medications on offer but we believe the best treatment is a lifestyle change and taking natural supplements.
A holistic approach to treating PCOS
A wholefood diet is best for people with PCOS. Wholefoods are free from artificial sugars, hormones, and preservatives. Without hormones and preservatives, your endocrine system can better regulate your blood sugar. Natural supplements can also help to greatly increase your health. It is important to take a probiotic if you suffer from PCOS. Probiotics help to reduce inflammation and regulate androgen and estrogen. We recommend Rawbiotics Daily probiotic. Rawbiotics are live fermented probiotics that balance and optimize the function of the gastro-intestinal tract, improving the body’s ability to digest food, use nutrition and stay healthy.
Moringa
Recent studies have shown the benefit of using Moringa to treat the symptoms of PCOS. Moringa has been shown to lower blood insulin levels and decrease androgen thus allowing the increase of folliculogenesis in PCOS. Nature’s Relief Moringa powder is excellent for healing hormonal imbalances. Moringa contains all the nutrients needed that assist with treating infertility.
CBD for PCOS
Current studies are showing how CBD can treat hyperinsulinemia (too much insulin). CBD can also reduce insulin resistance to improve blood sugar regulation which supports weight management and in some cases, weight loss. Our CBD drops can also help to treat anxiety that comes with PCOS. Using Nature’s Relief CBD Calm can help you to control stress which in turn will balance your hormones whereas traditional treatments such as birth control can aggravate depression and anxiety. We suggest taking Nature’s Relief CBD drops in the morning and evening to help you relax and unwind. The more consistently you use our drops, the more they will assist you. We have a wide range of CBD products but our Nature’s Relief 600mg Pain drops contain anti-inflammatory properties which can assist with the symptoms of PCOS.
Help is on hand
If you have recently been diagnosed with PCOS or suspect you may have it; Please visit us in store today. We have a healthcare professional (homeopath) in store who is here to give you expert advice. Please feel free to book an online consultation with us here or call us and book an appointment. We are here to walk this journey with you.
Johannesburg: 063 502 2974
Durban: 067 852 9402
