Hirsutism and PCOS: Diet and Treatment Options
Updated: Feb 22
One thing I like about my job is the things I learn from other people. Sometimes the things that I learn are helpful for other clients, Yesterday I had a client that had PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition in which the ovaries produce an abnormal number of androgens, male sex hormones that are usually present in women in small amounts. The name polycystic ovary syndrome describes the numerous small ovarian cysts (fluid-filled sacs). Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods. Other signs of PCOS are absent or irregular periods, infertility, miscarriages, weight gain, , fatigue and low energy.
Currently healthcare professional advice medications, or hormonal therapy, to address the underlying hormonal imbalances. She was unhappy with the advice her doctor had given her on how to balance her hormones. The birth control pill, gave her bad side affects and the anti-androgen drugs didn't agree with her.
I informed her that there was a diet that could balance her hormones and looked up names of books that explained how to achieve it. I also informed her about fennels seeds ability to help with hormonal problems for excessive hair growth.( Everything has pros and cons, make sure whatever treatment you try, works for you) Yes, this is something I learned from a client that had success with changing her diet and reducing her excessive hair production. By the way your hormones change every 7 years. It's important to regularly monitor and address any hormonal imbalances. Ask your doctor to check your hormone levels if you are having trouble with excessive hair growth.
Insulin resistance is a key factor in the development of PCOS, and a diet that helps to improve insulin sensitivity can be an effective way to manage the condition.
Consume foods that help to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and promote weight loss. Here are some tips for creating an insulin-resistant diet for PCOS:
Emphasize low-glycemic index foods: Choose foods that have a low glycemic index (GI) value, which means they release sugar into the bloodstream slowly. Low-GI foods include whole grains, legumes, and non-starchy vegetables. Do not be fooled by agave nectar. It is a high fructose option.
Limit processed and high-sugar foods: Processed foods and high-sugar foods tend to cause spikes in blood sugar levels, so it's best to avoid or limit these foods.
Incorporate healthy fats: Consume healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce inflammation.
Add fiber: Fiber can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Try to include fiber-rich foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
It is important to consume meat and dairy products in moderation and to opt for organic and hormone-free options where possible. Meat and dairy products are often high in hormones and growth factors, which can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body. This can lead to a variety of health issues, including hormonal imbalances. Consuming protein with each meal can help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. Good sources of protein include lean meat, poultry, fish, tofu, and legumes. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods from all food groups can help to maintain hormone balance and support overall health.
Vitamin K2 and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – female fertility Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by an overproduction of certain steroids such as testosterone and DHEA sulfate. Vitamin K2 combined with Vitamin D, and its role in hormone production could both prevent and help treat polycystic ovary syndrome.
It's important to note that everyone's dietary needs are different, and it's best to work with a registered dietitian to develop an insulin-resistant diet that works for you. Additionally, it's important to make lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, stress management, and getting adequate sleep, to help improve insulin sensitivity and manage PCOS.
Hirsutism is a condition in women that results in excessive growth of dark or coarse hair in a male-like pattern — face, chest and back. With hirsutism, extra hair growth often arises from excess male hormones (androgens), primarily testosterone. It is often a symptom of PCOS.
Hormonal imbalances can be a complex issue and cannot be resolved through IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) treatments, as IPL treatments are typically used for cosmetic purposes to remove unwanted hair.
PCOS diet for hair loss
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