#Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Diet Do's and Don'ts

[thefitindian]

Explore the world of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS) and its impact on health, including insulinresistance, weight management challenges, andirregular menstrual periods. Learn how a well-structured diet plan can empower you to controlPCOS and its associated symptoms

[pcos-and-endo-awareness]

Hello!

I recently got diagnosed with PCOS, and as i don't know much about it, could you sorta give a sorta beginners guide?

Sure! So there are different “kinds” of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, depending on what triggered it. Sometimes it’s genetic, or came on from birth control or diabetes, etc. Each kind of PCOS can show itself with different symptoms. Like if you have high testosterone, you will have hair growth, acne, skin tags, etc. but those symptoms don’t show in every case of PCOS, like for me I have high estrogen. But overall it comes down to this: hormone imbalance that causes cysts on your ovaries. These cysts form every time you have a period, but in people with PCOS, that cyst doesn’t go away like it should naturally. It stays, it grows, it causes pain. Sometimes it’ll cause further problems like torsion or rupture (I’ve experienced both and they are extremely painful).

There are things that can help! Birth control for one, or other medications that can help balance your hormones. You might need to do a hormone panel with your doc to determine the right kind of drugs to take for your specific PCOS. Sometimes a change in diet, specifically anti-inflammatory foods, can also make a huge difference. Vitamins are also a life saver.

Unfortunately there is no easy cure for this. PCOS can lead to other issues like diabetes, endometriosis, infertility, and more. The best thing to do is control the hormones as soon as you can so that it does not lead to these other problems. Definitely get a care team that works with you and gets your body in the best place it can be. I wish you well and good luck!

[heartstopper-lover123]

I want to make a most about something, so hear me out...

Hi, I'm summer, I'm 14 years old and I was recently diagnosed with PCOS

PCOS is short for polycystic ovarian syndrome. This affects many things including periods, their symptoms, fertility and can cause cists on the ovaries.

It can be passed down, so my mum and my aunt also have this. We are all affected in different ways.

My mum has the cists on her ovaries, and her period cramps and moods are quite severe

My aunt was affected in fertility, it was a miracle when she got pregnant, but because of pcos, she miscarriaged and hasn't tried for a baby again

I am affected by my period, in that I don't get it much anymore, it's very rare and very short if I do have it. My cramps and so horrible that it affects my school life.

PCOS is so overlooked in society and some people think just changing diets or exercising solves everything. Yes it may help, but it's not exactly a cure.

The doctors suggested I start taking the pill to try and get my periods back, but that's nor something I was open too, especially at this time where I'm still young. So I am left with agonising period cramps at random point in time, without any actual period.

Sorry for the long post but I thought it was important I provide some of the information I know about PCOS, so more people understand it a little more

[drpriya]

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. It is characterized by irregular menstrual periods, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries.

PCOS can significantly impact fertility due to the following reasons:

Irregular Ovulation: Women with PCOS often experience irregular or absent ovulation, making it difficult to conceive naturally.

Hormonal Imbalances: Elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) can interfere with the development and release of eggs during ovulation.

Insulin Resistance: Many women with PCOS have insulin resistance, which can lead to higher insulin levels. This can affect ovulation and increase the risk of developing diabetes.

Treatment Options for Infertility Due to PCOS:

Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss through diet and exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate menstrual cycles.

Medications:

Clomiphene Citrate: Often the first line of treatment to induce ovulation.

Metformin: Used to improve insulin resistance and sometimes combined with Clomiphene.

Letrozole: Another medication used to induce ovulation, often effective in women who do not respond to Clomiphene.

Gonadotropins: Injectable hormones that stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple follicles, used if other medications are ineffective.

Ovarian Drilling: A surgical procedure that can trigger ovulation by reducing the androgen-producing tissue in the ovaries.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART):

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Eggs are fertilized with sperm outside the body and the resulting embryos are transferred to the uterus.

Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly placed into the uterus around the time of ovulation.

Early diagnosis and treatment of PCOS can improve fertility outcomes and reduce the risk of long-term complications such as diabetes and heart disease. Regular monitoring and working closely with a healthcare provider can help manage the symptoms and improve the chances of conception.

By following these do's and don'ts, you can support healthy ovulation and improve your chances of successful pregnancy planning. Get full body health checkups at the best hospitals in Mumbai like H N Reliance Hospital Mumbai. Also get more advice on female health problems by consulting with the best specialists like Dr Firuza Parikh.

[limsydsouza0515]

Conquering PCOS/PCOD: Effective Treatment Options in Delhi

Introduction:

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) are common endocrine disorders affecting many women in Delhi, as they do worldwide. These conditions can lead to a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, hormonal imbalances, and fertility issues. In a bustling metropolis like Delhi, access to advanced medical care and specialists has made it easier for individuals to manage and seek treatment for PCOS/PCOD.

Understanding PCOS and PCOD:

PCOS and PCOD are often used interchangeably and share many similarities. Both conditions involve hormonal imbalances, with the ovaries producing small cysts. These conditions can manifest with symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth (hirsutism). PCOS and PCOD are significant contributors to infertility and can also increase the risk of other health problems, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Expert Gynecologists and Endocrinologists in Delhi:

Delhi is home to a diverse range of experienced gynecologists, endocrinologists, and fertility specialists who are well-versed in diagnosing and treating PCOS/PCOD. These specialists use a combination of medical expertise and advanced technologies to address these conditions effectively.

Treatment Options:

Lifestyle Modifications: Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can help manage the symptoms of PCOS/PCOD.

Medications: Hormonal medications, such as birth control pills or anti-androgens, are often prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles and manage symptoms like hirsutism and acne.

Fertility Treatments: For individuals trying to conceive, fertility treatments like ovulation-inducing medications and assisted reproductive techniques may be recommended.

Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be instrumental in managing PCOS/PCOD symptoms. Specialists in Delhi can provide tailored weight management plans.

Surgery: In cases of severe PCOS or when other treatments are ineffective, surgical procedures like ovarian drilling may be considered.

Laser Hair Removal: For individuals dealing with hirsutism, advanced treatments like laser hair removal can help manage excessive hair growth effectively.

Personalized Treatment Plans:

Gynecologists and endocrinologists in Delhi understand that PCOS/PCOD manifests differently in each individual. They develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs and goals of their patients, ensuring that the chosen treatments are the most effective for their condition.

Prevention and Education:

Awareness and education are crucial in managing PCOS/PCOD. Gynecologists and endocrinologists in Delhi often provide guidance on how to prevent the worsening of these conditions and the associated health risks through lifestyle adjustments and early intervention.

Conclusion:

Living in Delhi, a city that celebrates diversity and offers access to advanced healthcare, those dealing with PCOS/PCOD have options for effective management and treatment. With expert specialists, advanced technologies, and a holistic approach to care, individuals in Delhi can take control of their PCOS/PCOD and work towards better reproductive health and overall well-being. If you suspect you have PCOS/PCOD or have been diagnosed and are seeking treatment, don't hesitate to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to explore your options and embark on a journey to better health.

[srishtiivf]

Low Milk Supply Solutions: Overcoming Breastfeeding Problems

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way to nourish your baby while establishing a deep emotional bond. However, many mothers encounter breastfeeding problems, with low milk supply being one of the most common challenges they face. Low milk supply can cause frustration and anxiety, but rest assured that there are effective solutions to overcome this issue. In this article, we will explore various strategies and tips to boost your milk supply and ensure a successful breastfeeding journey.

Understanding the Causes

Before delving into solutions, it's important to understand the potential causes of low milk supply. Some common factors include:

Inadequate Breast Stimulation: Insufficient breastfeeding sessions or improper latch and positioning can lead to decreased milk production.

Stress and Anxiety: High levels of stress and anxiety can affect hormone production, which in turn may impact milk supply.

Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders, can contribute to low milk supply.

Inadequate Nutrition: Poor maternal diet and hydration can affect milk production.

Supplementing with Formula: Introducing formula feeds too early can reduce the baby's demand for breast milk.

Solutions to Increase Milk Supply

Frequent and Effective Nursing: Ensure that your baby is latched correctly and breastfeed frequently, especially during the early weeks. Skin-to-skin contact and responsive feeding can stimulate milk production.

Pumping: Consider using a breast pump between nursing sessions to increase breast stimulation and milk supply. Double electric pumps are often the most efficient.

Nourish Your Body: Eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients, stay hydrated, and get adequate rest. Certain foods like oatmeal, fenugreek, and brewer's yeast are known to support milk production.

Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to reduce stress levels, as stress can hinder milk production.

Consult a Lactation Consultant: Seek guidance from a lactation consultant or a healthcare professional specializing in breastfeeding. They can provide personalized advice and support.

Use Galactagogues: These are substances that can help increase milk supply. Consult your healthcare provider before trying any herbal or prescription galactagogues.

Breast Compression: During breastfeeding or pumping, use breast compression to help the baby get more milk and stimulate additional milk production.

Avoid Early Formula Introduction: Delay introducing formula feeds until breastfeeding is well-established, unless medically necessary.

Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spend time doing skin-to-skin contact with your baby as it helps regulate your milk supply and enhances bonding.

Stay Patient and Positive: Overcoming breastfeeding problems, including low milk supply, can take time. Be patient with yourself and your baby, and maintain a positive attitude.

Conclusion

Low milk supply is a common breastfeeding problem, but it's not an insurmountable obstacle. With the right strategies and support, many mothers can increase their milk supply and continue to provide their babies with the valuable benefits of breast milk. Remember that every mother and baby are unique, so it may take some trial and error to find the solutions that work best for you. Don't hesitate to reach out to lactation consultants, healthcare providers, or support groups for assistance and encouragement on your breastfeeding journey.

[ladygynecologistindore]

Empowering Women in Indore: Managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Indore, India is a city that has always been known for its vibrant culture and progressive attitude towards women’s rights. In recent years, the city has seen an increase in awareness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a condition that affects many women around the world. PCOS is caused by hormonal imbalances and can cause infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and excessive facial hair growth among other symptoms.

In Indore, several initiatives are being taken to empower women with PCOS through education about their condition as well as providing support services to help them manage it better. One such initiative is ‘Umeed e Zindagi’ – Uplifting Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome which was founded in 2017 by Dr. Poonam Raikwar, a female gynaecologist in Indore,  who herself suffered from this disorder since her teenage years. The organization aims at creating awareness regarding PCOS amongst both men and women so that they can understand it better & take preventive measures against it & also provide emotional support for those affected by this syndrome through counseling sessions.

This organization works closely with various medical institutions like Choithram Hospital, MGM Medical College, etc where specialized doctors are available to diagnose & treat patients suffering from PCOS. Apart from these medical facilities, Umeed e Zindagi also conducts regular workshops on healthy lifestyle choices such as diet plans & exercises tailored specifically for those suffering from the disorder along with mental health counseling sessions too if required. These steps have helped immensely in empowering people living with polycystic ovaries syndrome (PCOs) so that they don't feel alone or helpless when dealing with their condition but instead find hope within themselves while fighting against this disease together!

Overall, Indore's efforts towards empowering its female population living under the shadow of polycystic ovary syndrome have been commendable - not only do these initiatives bring much-needed attention on how best one should tackle such issues but more importantly create an atmosphere where sufferers know they're not alone!

About the Author:

Dr. Poonam Raikwar is a prominent gynecologist and obstetrician in Indore, dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services to women. With her extensive knowledge, expertise, and compassionate approach, she has become a trusted name in the field of women's health. Dr. Raikwar offers a wide range of specialized services, including prenatal care, high-risk pregnancy management, infertility treatment, gynecological surgeries, and comprehensive reproductive health services. She strongly believes in empowering her patients through education and ensuring their comfort throughout their healthcare journey.

[budgetfertilitycentre]

How to Get Pregnant with PCOS: Treatment options

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that interferes with more than just your fertility; you might first be diagnosed with PCOS when trying to get pregnant. This is because it’s a common and treatable cause of infertility in women.

PCOS doesn't mean that you can never get pregnant; it just means that fertility is a little bit more complicated. With medical treatment and self-care, PCOS symptoms can be controlled so you're more likely to conceive healthy babies.

Our best fertility doctors in Mumbai recommend following these steps to help you get pregnant as a woman with PCOS:

Maintain a Healthy weight

While many (but not all) people with PCOS struggle with obesity, this is because the condition negatively affects how insulin is processed by the body and causes weight gain.

One of the main reasons people with PCOS can’t get pregnant is that they don't ovulate, or if they do it's only irregularly. And because PCOS sufferers who are overweight tend to take longer to shed their pounds than other groups, they might go months between periods while trying for a baby.

Unfortunately, research has shown that losing weight on its own does not improve fertility. However, people who lose weight may have a higher chance of becoming pregnant with infertility treatments than heavier individuals.

Proper Diet and Exercise

People with PCOS face a higher risk of becoming overweight and having trouble metabolizing insulin. So it’s unsurprising that eating healthily is important for them—but there's no one diet that's perfect for everyone who has the condition.

While some studies have indicated that a low-carb diet is best for PCOS, other research has not found such an advantage. It's important to make sure your diet provides plenty of nutrients and protein—and eliminates sugary junk food.

Exercise has also been shown to help with PCOS symptoms. Whether diet and exercise alone will help you conceive is unclear, but a healthy lifestyle can certainly benefit your fertility treatments and make it easier for you to feel good overall.

Maintain blood sugar levels

Insulin, a hormone that plays an important role in metabolism by moving sugar out of the bloodstream and into cells, becomes less effective as a result of PCOS.

Getting your blood sugar levels under control may improve your chances of getting pregnant. A healthy diet that includes fiber, protein, and unsaturated fats can help you better manage the fluctuations in blood glucose caused by insulin use. Regular exercise can also lower those glucose spikes from happening as often or for as long and it's a good idea to get plenty of strength training while at it!

Medication for PCOS Fertility Treatment

Women with PCOS have high levels of male hormones and female hormones that affect fertility. Medication can be prescribed to balance hormone levels and help you get pregnant.

Medications used for PCOS fertility treatment that help a woman to get pregnant with PCOS include Metformin helps balance insulin levels. Clomiphene citrate (or Clomid) can help balance estrogen levels and birth control pills are used to regulate hormone production in women before beginning fertility treatment. Fertility medications stimulate the ovaries to release more eggs than normal.

Fertility Procedures

If gonadotropins aren’t successful, IVF (in vitro fertilization) or IVM ( in vitro maturation ) is the next step. You are likely familiar with IVF: it involves using injectable fertility drugs to stimulate ovaries so they will provide a good number of mature eggs. 

One of the risks associated with IVF, especially for people with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), is that their ovaries may be overstimulated. In this case, IVM (intra-mural insemination) can lower the risk of such a problem by providing more control over how many sperm are used during each procedure.

With IVM, you will receive either no fertility drugs or very low doses of them. This allows your eggs to mature in a natural way rather than being forced by high hormone levels.

Key Takeaway

If you have a diagnosis of PCOS, you can get pregnant. It may take some extra time and effort, but it is certainly possible. Our Budget Fertility Centre have a team of the best fertility doctors in Mumbai for personalized advice for PCOS fertility treatment.

To know more information visit us on:

[indynerdgirl]

So I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes back in January. With the support of my wonderful & amazing doctor, my family & friends, and the help of a dietician who specializes in diabetes I drastically changed my eating habits and learned how to manage my blood sugar. Just with those changes alone I've been slowly losing weight all year.

Last night I had a moment in a dressing room that I thought would never happen - I zipped up a pair of size 22 jeans and they fit perfectly fine.

I was wearing a 26 in January.

I started wearing a 24 in August.

I haven't worn a 22 since high school.

I sat down on the little bench in the dressing room in total shock and almost burst into tears. Both in joy at this accomplishment and in sadness & frustration at myself, wondering how much sooner I could have reached this milestone if I had started this journey 10 years earlier.

I've been plus-size my entire life and (with the best of intentions of my mother & grandmother) have been on almost every fad diet since 5th grade. It wasn't until my mid 20s that I learned that both the weight gain and difficulty in losing weight were due to an underlying health reason - polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS.

[the rest of my story is under the cut because this post ended up way longer than I had anticipated]

TL;DR - I'm 35 and I've been working on my health this past year and while I'm so happy to celebrate my successes, I wish I had started this journey sooner. Please don't do what I did and ignore symptoms for years. And if you have a young girl in your life that has irregular periods, get her checked for PCOS. Because if I had been given that diagnosis & started treatment decades earlier (and no, being given birth control is NOT a treatment for PCOS - it's lazy medical treatment at best and malpractice at worst) I know my life would be different right now because the majority of my life has been dictated by my size.

I'd had irregular periods my entire life but for some reason, none of my childhood doctors or even my mother ever thought to check for it. I was checked for thyroid issues and vitamin deficiencies but for some reason, PCOS was never brought up (not that I would have known to ask about it as a child). But one day I was having a physical done by a new doctor (not my current doctor) and when I mentioned my irregular periods she started asking me more questions about them and after looking at the rest of my medical history decided to have me checked for PCOS. And low and behold I had it.

I can't tell you the relief I felt finding out there was an actual medical reason for why I had struggled with my weight my entire life. Because up until that moment I'd always been made to feel like it was all my fault that I was fat. If I just ate better or stuck to a strict diet or exercised more (I can't even begin to describe the embarrassment and humiliation of being forced to go to exercise classes with your mother when you're 12yr old and you're the only kid in a class full of adults). It was never ever directly said to me, but it was obvious in the way things were said and the way people acted around me.

The doctor also explained to me that I was pre-diabetic as PCOS can cause diabetes if left untreated (this will be important to remember in just a minute). So we started working on getting my hormones back on track and I was told to try to cut back on my sugar intake. Unfortunately not too long afterward, the job I had at the time decided to switch our health insurance provider. Suddenly my doctor was out of network and continuing to see her was becoming very expensive for me as I wasn't making a whole lot at the time (I was working at a childcare center). Add in the fact that she was on the opposite side of town from me and that it was almost impossible to get time off work for appointments, I just kind of stopped seeing her.

The next part of my story is where I wish I could go back in time and shake some sense into my younger self. Because did I try to find a new doctor that my insurance would pay for? Nope. Did I at least try to cut back on my sugar and eat a little better? Also, no. For the next almost ten years, despite knowing I had PCOS and knowing I was pre-diabetic, I didn't change my eating habits at all. Every once in a while I'd get on a "health" kick and go for walks at the park and try to eat more whole wheat bread than white bread, but those never lasted long. I wasn't in the best space mentally either so there was also a lot of emotional eating as well. I figured as long as I never had to go up another pant size I was doing all right just "maintaining". If I got sick and needed to see a doctor, I just went to one of those minute clinic things at Walgreens. Yeah, mid & late 20s me was an idiot.

Fast forward to a few years ago when it started being pretty obvious that I had crossed the line from pre-diabetic to actually diabetic. I had all the classic signs and symptoms yet I was still being an idiot and ignoring my health. Unfortunately, I've always had a horrible bad habit of thinking if I just ignore whatever issues or problems I'm currently having that they'll just go away. Yeah, I know. I finally get to the point where I know I can't ignore my health anymore and January of 2020 I make it my New Year's goal to start getting myself back on track. By the time I worked up the courage to call and set up an appointment with my old doctor (I had a new job by then with better insurance that included her again) two things happened: March of 2020 and the building her practice was in was destroyed in a fire.

So I told myself I'd just "wait until this whole covid thing was over" before trying to set up an appointment again. And we all know how the rest of 2020 went. Now it's December of 2021 and I still haven't made an appointment with my old doctor. But I was at an eye doctor appointment that I'd also been putting off for years despite knowing it was time for a new prescription. After checking my eyes, the eye doctor tells me that I need to see my doctor as soon as possible because he saw signs of diabetic retinopathy in my eyes. And as someone who's always had poor eyesight and one of their greatest fears is going blind, THAT was the kick in the pants I needed to finally see a doctor.

I ended up having a heart-to-heart with my mom about my health (something I would always avoid talking about with her) and admitting that I really didn't want to go back to my old doctor because I never really felt a good connection with her but I was willing to deal with that issue since she was also a practicing Catholic and it's hard to find not only a good doctor but a Catholic one as well (I know there are plenty of good doctors out there who aren't Catholic, but as a practicing Catholic, it does make things so much easier when your doctor also follows Church teachings when it comes to health & medical issues). My mom then suggested I set up an appointment with her new doctor who is not only a general MD, but also specialized in treating PCOS and also just happened to be Catholic as well.

So I set up an appointment with Dr. Holly for after the New Year and the rest, as they say, is history. She's just a few years older than me and I have never in my life been so at ease with a doctor. She and I hit it off right away and when I explained everything to her she didn't make me feel bad for waiting for so long to do anything like I was afraid she would. Instead, she listened to all of my concerns, validated them, and then right there came up with a plan of attack listing out all of the health issues we needed to tackle right away (getting the diabetes under control & start treating the PCOS) and what health issues weren't immediately pressing (some small patches of eczema & trying out meds for my ADHD again).

It also helps that she's diabetic as well so she knows exactly what I'm going through and have to deal with on a day to day basis. With her help and support (plus the advice from the dietician she recommend to me), I brought down my A1C from a staggering 12.7% to a much better 7.2% at my last appointment with her and, of course, have been slowly and steadily losing weight.

I decided early on that I wasn't going to obsess over the numbers on the scale, instead mostly tracking my progress by how my clothes are fitting. Since January I'm down not only two pant sizes but also a shirt size! I'm able to comfortably wear again all of the 2XL shirts I own and I've gone to a few events where I was able to buy a shirt as a souvenir because I didn't have to worry if they had a 3XL because I knew would be able to fit in a 2XL.

I still have a lot of work to do (I really do need to start actually exercising) but I am so happy with what progress I've made so far already. If you had told me last year that I'd be wearing a size 22 pair of jeans, I would have laughed in your face. I still can't believe it sometimes, but then I look at pictures of myself from last year compared to this year and the differences are kind of shocking. And that's been another little victory for me - actually not hating how I look in photos. I've taken more photos of myself/allowed myself to be in more photos this year than in at least the last five years if not more.

I never know how to end posts like this, so if you've actually read this far down, thanks. 💙

[globabuzz]

10 Ways to Balance Your Hormones Naturally - Don't Mess with Mama

Do you feel like your hormones are out of control? You’re not alone. Most women have experienced a hormonal imbalance. Here are the signs and symptoms of a hormonal imbalance…

21 Signs of a Hormonal Imbalance Have you experienced any of these symptoms?

Foggy thinking Increased forgetfulness Insomnia Water retention Weight gain around the waist Abdominal fat Decreased muscle mass, and strength Decreased urine flow Prostate problems Increased urinary urge Fatigue Difficulty sleeping Anxiety Decreased stamina Dizzy spells Lightheadedness Frequent colds/flu Headaches Irritability Morning fatigue Sugar cravings You could have a hormonal imbalance. The first thing you need to do is do an at-home hormone test or take the hormone quiz I recommend below to see what’s out of balance.

What Causes Hormone Imbalance? Virtually everyone experiences imbalanced hormone levels at some point in their lives, especially women. These imbalances are often a result of natural changes that occur with age, such as puberty and menopause. When you were growing up, hormones triggered bone and muscle growth. They also set in motion the reproductive changes that led to menstruation and fertility in young women, and sexual maturity in young men. This surge of hormones is behind the acne, mood swings, and other “teen” issues that affect most adolescents.

On the other end of the spectrum, hormone production slows as you leave your reproductive years behind. A decline in hormone production is what leads to perimenopause and menopause symptoms in women, and low libido and erectile dysfunction in men entering middle age.

Some hormonal imbalances, however, can have other underlying causes beyond the natural aging processes, including:

Chronic stress Elevated blood sugar Lack of Sleep Thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) or birth control pills Type 1 or type 2 diabetes Being overweight Endocrine disruptors such as pesticides, herbicides, and plastics Steroids and other medications Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Why Is Hormone Balance Important? Hormones are your body’s chemical messengers. They help control every physiological process in your body, including metabolism, immune system, menstrual cycle, and reproduction. A precise hormone balance is vital to proper body functioning.

How to Test Your Hormones One of my favorite resources for balancing hormones naturally is the book The Hormone Cure by Sara Gottfried. She has a quiz you can take in the book to figure out on your own what hormones are out of balance, and she gives natural remedies, exercises, supplements, and other tips to balance hormones. For instance, if you have higher cortisol levels, you’ll want to stay away from running and intense exercises like kickboxing. Yoga and mind-body exercises are better suited for you.

While The Hormone Cure is a great start, I also recommend getting a hormone lab test. It’s the most accurate way of finding out what’s going on with your hormones. It’s an at-home hormone lab test that tests saliva samples (which is one of the most accurate ways to test hormones). This test provides an assessment for estradiol/estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and cortisol (am, noon, dinner, and before bed).

And the best part? You can schedule a one-on-one consultation with a functional medicine doctor with True Health Labs to go over your test results. There’s no need to schedule a doctor visit.  There’s no need to drive to your appointment. Just add the consultation to your cart when you order the at-home hormone lab test. The entire process took about 2-3 weeks from the time I received the kit, sent in my samples, waited for the results, and had my consultation.

You can then use the tips in this post and The Hormone Cure book to balance your hormones naturally.

Video Q&A with Dr. Brady Hurst I also interviewed Dr. Brady Hurst of True Health Labs on the basics of women’s hormones, how hormones affect other body systems, symptoms of hormone imbalances, how diet and lifestyle can affect hormones, natural ways to balance hormones, and how to get an at-home female hormones test.

10 Ways to Balance Hormones Naturally 1. Try seed cycling Did you know you can actually regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce PMS (and PMS-related symptoms like cramping) naturally? You can with seed cycling. This concept may seem new but naturopathic health practitioners have been using this method for a while to balance hormones. Cycling seeds (such as pumpkin, flax, sunflower, or sesame seeds) at certain times of the menstrual cycle can help your body to produce hormones or eliminate certain hormones to quell PMS symptoms. Find out more about how to balance hormones naturally with seed cycling.

2. Avoid GMO foods While it’s no surprise that dairy, meat, and pork may come from cows and pigs who have been treated with hormones, genetically-modified (GMO) foods can cause hormonal imbalance too. Long-term ingestion GMO foods that are sprayed with pesticides can cause hormonal issues that have been linked to depression, infertility, PCOS, and cancer. Eating a diet with little to no GMO foods and rich in local and organic produce can help to balance hormones.

3. Walk barefoot Crazy as it may sound – the key to lowering cortisol (a hormone associated with stress, inflammation, and sleep dysfunction) may be to walk barefoot – like on a grassy lawn, sandy beach, or even a concrete road. There are 1,300+ nerve endings per square inch on the soles of your feet – more than any other part of your body. Walking barefoot – or earthing – helps to ground you to the earth and in a way conduct the energy from the ground. Keep reading The Healing Power of Earthing.

4. Eat more liver Your mother was right. The liver really is good for you – and in a way, you wouldn’t expect. The liver is the most nutrient-dense food you can eat. It can help to curb PMS and mood swings, increase energy, and improve cardiovascular stamina. While the thought of eating liver each day may seem unfathomable, you can take liver pills (de.

5. Cut down on sugar and alcohol The two biggest endocrine disruptors are sugar and wine. Sugar can lead to inflammation and feeds yeast in the gut, which can lead to leaky gut syndrome and other digestive issues. Alcohol disrupts your body’s natural detox abilities, which helps to keep your hormones in check. Lay off both sugar and alcohol to feel better within just a week.

6. Take a detox bath Balance your hormones with a relaxing bath. But not just any bath. A detox bath with Epsom salts. Epsom salts provide magnesium to help to balance and support healthy hormones.

7. Drink water sole Unlike you’ve been told as a kid, drinking salt water is good for you. Unlike ocean water or saltwater made with table salt, water sole is made with natural salt such as Himalayan pink salt. It’s like a natural electrolyte drink. Drinking a lot of plain water can dilute the fluid in the body and may cause a stress response – such as an increase in stress hormones. Water sole hydrates without diluting the body. Natural salt also helps to reduce stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline – encouraging a better night’s sleep. Read more on how to make water sole and its benefits.

8. Avoid soy Soy and soy products have been touted as a health food for decades, but the reality is that soy is not healthy. If eaten unfermented, soy has anti-nutrients that actually block the absorption of calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc. In addition, eating as little as two tablespoons of soybeans per day for a month can significantly increase thyroid-stimulating hormones. Soy consumption is linked to thyroid issues such as hypothyroidism, goiter, and autoimmune thyroid disease.

9. Ditch the low-fat diet Fat is really good for you, especially saturated fat. Your body depends on fat for necessary functions. It supports metabolic rate (metabolism), thyroid function, immune system, and digestion. The best options for saturated fats are butter (from organic or grass-fed cows), ghee, and rendered fats (such as lard and tallow).

Cold-pressed olive oil is another great fat source – just don’t heat it. Save it for salads or as a garnish on foods. While saturated fats from animal fat and are good for you, there are two facts you should avoid.

Vegetable oils (such as canola, cottonseed, soybean, and grapeseed) are polyunsaturated fats that actually cause inflammation and can cause a hormonal imbalance. These fats are usually derived from GMO sources, contain pesticides, and are heavily refined and processed. Trans fats are another fat to avoid – occurring in hydrogenated oils such as Crisco and food products with hydrogenated oils.

10. Consider supplements Sometimes eating a whole food diet isn’t enough to help balance hormones. Consider supplements such as magnesium, calcium, and fish oil/omega-3 – as well as herbs and whole foods such as Tulsi (holy basil), gelatin, Maca root. These delicious treats help to balance stressors in the body – including estrogen imbalance.

Sleep And Hormone Imbalance No matter how nutritious your diet is and how much exercise you get, your health will suffer if you don’t get enough restorative sleep.

Poor sleep has been linked to imbalances of many hormones, including insulin, cortisol, leptin, ghrelin, and growth hormone.

Inadequate or poor-quality sleep has been shown to decrease fullness hormones, increase hunger and stress hormones, reduce growth hormone, and increase insulin resistance.

Top Tips To Balance Hormones Naturally Take a bath with Epsom salts for a detox. Avoid GMO foods Tulsi is a great natural supplement to help with hormone imbalance. Make sure to get enough good quality sleep.

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PCOD treatment at Sree Prathama Ayurvedam

PCOS, or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, is marked by a hormonal imbalance that can cause irregular periods and hair growth on your face or body. Women with PCOS usually have high levels of male hormones known as androgens, which can cause acne, facial hair and irregular menstrual periods.

Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS is customized to you and your symptoms. This treatment usually includes a combination of herbs, therapies, and lifestyle changes. Ayurvedic PCOS treatments do not require fasting or dieting of any kind, so you can remain comfortable through the process.

Apart from these ayurvedic treatments Uttaravasti treatment for pcod in ayurveda in Bangalore appears to be the most impactful gynecological treatment.

It dissolves the cyst inside the reproductive organs more effectively than oral antibiotics because of its impact on the ovary and the uterus. This methodology uses ayurvedic decoctions to detox as well as nurture the inner organs in order to resolve the disease.

The Uttara Vasti ayurvedic treatment aids in the treatment of female infertility, irregular menstruation, hormonal imbalance, and the cure of PCOD as well.

Get the best ayurvedic care from Sree Prathama Ayurvedam  experts.

Ayurveda has been one of the ancient remedies that has been used to cure illnesses over a long period of time. If you're considering Ayurveda or any other alternative treatment options for PCOS, don't do it without talking to your doctor first! They know the details of your current health and the potential interactions that may occur with any medication you’re currently taking.