#managing insulin resistance with PCOS

[healthmonastery]

Taming the PCOS Weight Loss Rollercoaster: Sustainable Strategies for Success

Feeling overwhelmed by the seemingly never-ending struggle of PCOS and weight loss? You’re not alone. Many women with PCOS face the challenge of managing weight due to hormonal imbalances. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can achieve sustainable weight loss and feel empowered on your PCOS journey. This guide explores effective strategies to overcome weight loss challenges…

[drasmitadongare]

PCOD and PCOS: Causes, Symptoms, Differences, and Treatment

Are you struggling with irregular periods, weight gain, or acne and suspect it might be more than just stress? You could be dealing with PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) or PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), two common hormonal disorders affecting women worldwide. Though often used interchangeably, they’re not the same! This guide cuts through the confusion, giving you clear, updated insights into the causes, symptoms, and how they differ. Discover actionable solutions and treatment options available right here in Pune.

If you’re seeking expert care, look no further than Dr. Asmita Dongare, an experienced gynecologist at Cloverleaf Specialty Clinic and Jupiter Hospital in Baner, offering the best PCOD/PCOS treatment in Wakad, Pune. Let’s analyze PCOD and PCOS to help you regain control of your health and well-being.

Understanding PCOD and PCOS:

PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease)

What Happens: Immature eggs form cysts in the ovaries, enlarging them and triggering excess androgen (male hormone) production.

Prevalence: Affects ~33% of women worldwide.

Fertility Impact: 80% of women can conceive with medical guidance.

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

What Happens: A metabolic disorder causing insulin resistance, high androgen levels, and irregular ovulation. Cysts form but remain unruptured, leading to systemic issues like diabetes and heart disease.

Prevalence: Affects 4–20% of women, with severe symptoms

Common Symptoms:

Both conditions share symptoms, but severity varies:

Menstrual Irregularities: Delayed or absent periods.

Hormonal Imbalances: Excess facial/body hair (hirsutism), acne, male-pattern baldness.

Weight Gain: Linked to insulin resistance in PCOS.

Pelvic Discomfort: More common in PCOD.

Causes and Risk Factors:

Genetics: Family history increases risk.

Insulin Resistance: Central to PCOS, worsening androgen production.

Lifestyle: Sedentary habits, processed diets, and stress aggravate both conditions.

How is PCOD and PCOS Diagnosed?

Medical History and Symptoms

A gynecologist evaluates menstrual patterns, weight changes, and other symptoms.

Blood Tests

Hormone levels (testosterone, LH, FSH, insulin)

Glucose and lipid profile (to check for insulin resistance and cholesterol levels)

Ultrasound (Pelvic Scan)

Identifies multiple cysts on the ovaries

Checks for ovarian size and abnormalities

Early diagnosis enables timely treatment and reduces health risks.

Treatment and Management:

1. Lifestyle Modifications

Diet: Low glycemic index foods, balanced carbs/proteins.

Exercise: 150 mins/week of moderate activity to improve insulin sensitivity.

Stress Management: Yoga, meditation, or counseling.

2. Medical Interventions

PCOD: Birth control pills to regulate cycles; metformin for insulin resistance.

PCOS: Anti-androgen drugs (e.g., spironolactone), ovulation-inducing medications (e.g., clomiphene).

3. Fertility Support

Ovulation Induction: Letrozole or injectable hormones for PCOS.

IVF: Recommended if other treatments fail.

4. Symptom-Specific Care

Acne/Hair Growth: Topical creams, laser therapy.

Weight Management: Personalized plans with nutritionists.

PCOD, PCOS, and Pregnancy:

PCOD: Women with PCOD often conceive with minimal medical assistance

PCOS: PCOS can pose challenges to conception due to hormonal irregularities. Fertility treatments like ovulation induction or IVF may be recommended.

Why Choose a Specialist?

If you’re experiencing symptoms of PCOD or PCOS, consulting a qualified gynecologist is crucial. Managing these conditions demands expertise. In Pune, areas like Pashan, Aundh, and Wakad have reputable specialists. Dr. Asmita Dongare, a leading gynecologist in Pune with 15+ years of experience, offers tailored care at Cloverleaf Specialty Clinic, Wakad, and Jupiter Hospital Baner. Her approach includes:

Customized diet and exercise plans.

Advanced fertility treatments.

Regular monitoring to prevent complications

Conclusion:

Understanding PCOD and PCOS is the first step toward managing these conditions effectively. With the right lifestyle changes and medical treatment, women can lead a healthy life. If you are facing symptoms or have concerns, consider consulting a specialist. Dr. Asmita Dongare, available at Cloverleaf Specialty Clinic or Jupiter Hospital in Baner, is highly regarded as the Best Gynecologist in Pashan, Aundh, Wakad, and all over Pune and can guide you through your treatment journey.

Taking proactive steps today can improve your health tomorrow. Stay informed, stay healthy, and don’t hesitate to seek expert advice for managing PCOD or PCOS.

[shaftking]

I’m so tireddd of seeing whole ass doctors on social media grifting and claiming that there is no merit to eating less (especially eating less junk food) and moving more or that people with PCOS just can’t lose weight and improve/manage their symptoms. Why are you selling people on giving up instead of working with them and telling them that just because it’s difficult doesn’t mean it’s unattainable.

[gofitnesspro]

Demystifying PCOD and PCOS: Spotting the Variances

PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disease) and PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) are related conditions, but they have some differences: Definition: PCOD: Primarily refers to the presence of multiple cysts in the ovaries along with irregular menstrual cycles and elevated androgen levels. It may or may not present with symptoms like acne, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), and weight gain. PCOS: Involves a…

[wellhealthhub]

What are the 10 side effects of metformin?

Delve into the comprehensive guide about the 10 potential side effects of metformin, a commonly prescribed medication for managing type 2 diabetes. Learn about the nuances, management strategies, and precautions associated with these effects. Introduction: Your Companion in Diabetes Management Metformin: a steadfast ally in the realm of type 2 diabetes treatment. Understanding its potential…

[goodhealthedit]

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[theambitiouswoman]

I was wondering if you might have any tips for managing PCOS with insulin resistance. I recall reading that you were able to improve or even reverse your symptoms, and I would greatly appreciate any insights or advice you could share 🙏🏻

Hey!

Okay so here are a few suggestions

Eating more protein and fiber

Cut sugar and refined carbs and always pair carbs with protein to slow glucose absorption

Walking for 20 mins after your meals. Insulin spikes after meals, this normal, but with PCOS and insulin resistance, those spikes are more intense and prolonged

Spearmint tea at night especially if you are struggling with excess androgens (like facial hair, acne, or hair thinning)

Micro greens have a very high concentration of sulforaphane which lowers DHT (a form of testosterone that worsens PCOS symptoms), detoxes used estrogen from the body and is very anti inflammatory

Inositol plays a key role in insulin sensitivity, ovarian function and can restore ovulation. Your body needs this for mood, hormone balancing and blood sugar control

Magnesium before bed helps manage cortisol and relax muscles

Eat more probiotic rich foods (yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut)

Raw carrots have unique fibers that bind to excess estrogen and toxins in the gut, helping the body eliminate them

ACV can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the blood sugar spike after meals. I took and still take an ACV concoction in the mornings. I can post it here if interested

Cut off anyone who stresses you out and sleep more (seriously)

this is not medical advice :)

[bekkathyst]

Hey folks, this post is super personal and basically a long rant about health issues and the state of the healthcare system, so please proceed with caution especially if any of that is triggering to you. But if anyone else who maybe has some experience with these things and wants to offer some advice, I welcome it because I’m truly at a loss right now.

I’m really trying to be hopeful that my health issues will get figured out and I’ll finally get help for what I think is an autoimmune condition that is existing just under the diagnosable levels, but I’m losing any faith I had left in the healthcare system. The truth is I haven’t felt normal since 2021. I never felt better than I did while I was pregnant and then the year afterward. (Aside from the blood pressure issues at first lol) I keep find myself missing who I was back then. I was able to do so much, hike so far and high up, I had so much energy and I felt great. My blood pressure was under control, my blood sugar was perfect without restricting what I ate, my body wasn’t constantly inflamed and in pain, I didn’t have multiple migraines a month, and I didn’t have problems sleeping. I keep asking myself over and over what I did differently then, but I just can’t understand why I got so bad so quickly while they keep telling me it’s my fault because I’m just fat and not eating well or exercising enough. It’s maddening and I’m tired of hearing that. The reason I’m not exercising as much any more is because I’m constantly in pain or dealing with being sick. (And I eat SO well, better than I ever have before like wtf. And I do still exercise to be clear, I’m in nature every change I get.)

I was really hoping that I wasn’t going to face this here like I did in America, but it really seems like doctors just do not care about your symptoms and if you’re not presenting with the exact blood levels they studied to diagnose things, they’re just convinced you’re either making everything up or exaggerating.

So far I know I have: insulin resistance, high blood pressure (managed), PCOS, I’m hypermobile (which has been confirmed but no one’s bothered to look into it and any possible comorbidities), I have lipedema in my arms, hips, and thighs, chronic migraines, subclinical hypothyroidism, iron deficient anemia that I have to keep getting infusions for, and basically my whole life I’ve had headaches and heart palpitations. Phew.

I’m just at a loss here. This past year alone I’ve gained 30 lbs without changing anything, and if I bring this up I’m just told to stop eating carbs which is just absolutely not helpful. It’s clearly a symptom of whatever is going on and not the other way around. I’m so tired! And on top of the usual symptoms, I now spend basically October through April being sick with various coughs, infections, etc with little breaks of being normal in between.

Has anyone else dealt with this and have you found anything that’s helped? I try really hard to take care of myself, but it feels like these days nothing is really making a difference anymore.

[cannabiscomrade]

It's Gastroparesis Awareness Month

Hi! I have gastroparesis and I'm an insufferable know-it-all so let's talk about it!

Gastroparesis, or a paralyzed stomach, is a condition that causes delayed gastric emptying.

This can cause a range of symptoms and complications:

nausea

vomiting

early satiety/fullness

upper gastric pain

heartburn

malabsorption

dehydration

malnutrition

Gastroparesis can be treated by a gastroenterologist, but often needs to be managed by a motility specialist due to a lot of misconceptions about the condition. Providers, especially in the emergency department, will commonly misdiagnose gastroparesis as cannabis-hyperemesis syndome, cyclic vomiting syndrome, gastritis, food poisoning, etc.

There are several commonly known causes of gastroparesis like vagus nerve damage from diabetes, injury to the stomach, and stomach surgery like hernia repair or bariatric surgery. There are also idiopathic cases with no known cause. Other causes of gastroparesis are:

Connective tissue disorders like HSD and EDS (commonly hEDS and cEDS)

Post-viral (like COVID, viral gastritis, mononucleosis/Epstein-Barr)

Restrictive eating disorders

Autoimmune diseases like Systemic sclerosis (scleroderma), Lupus, Hashimoto's

Central nervous system disorders

Gastroparesis also has common comorbidities with conditions like:

POTS and other forms of dysautonomia (POTS, EDS, and gastroparesis are a common triad of diagnoses)

MCAS

SMAS (which can also present with similar symptoms to GP)

Intestinal dysmotility and esophageal dysmotility disorders (known as global dysmotility)

PCOS with insulin resistance

Endometriosis

SIBO/SIFO

Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Migraines

Certain medications like Ozempic and other drugs in that class act on the digestive system to delay gastric emptying, which has caused people to be diagnosed with gastroparesis. Some people report that their cases have not gone away since stopping the medication, others report feeling better after stopping. Other drugs like opiates and narcotics can cause delayed gastric and intestinal motility as well, but these are commonly known side effects of those painkiller classes.

Gastroparesis is classed based on severity and graded based on how you respond to treatment.

Severity of delay ranges from mild to very severe, and this is based on your actual stomach retention calculated at 4 hours into a gastric emptying study.

The grading scale ranges from one to three, one being mild and three being gastric failure.

There is no consistent single treatment that is proven to work for gastroparesis, and there is no cure. Treatments can consist of:

Diet changes (3 Step Gastroparesis Diet, liquid diet, oral sole source nutrition)

Prokinetic (motility stimulating) drugs

Anti-nausea medications

Proton-pump inhibitors

Gastric stimulator/gastric pacemaker

Pyloric botox and dilation

G-POEM/pyloroplasty

Post-pyloric tube feeding

Gastric venting/draining

Parenteral nutrition

IV fluids

Other surgical interventions like gastrectomy or rarely, transplant

Gastroparesis is a terrible disease and I hope that if any of these symptoms resonate with you that you can get checked out. I was misdiagnosed for a long time before getting a proper gastroparesis diagnosis, and all it took was a gastric emptying study. This is ESPECIALLY true if you're having post-COVID gastrointestinal problems that are not improving. I almost died from starvation ketoacidosis because of how serious my GP got in a short period of time post-COVID (I had GP before COVID), and now I'm tube reliant for all my nutrition and hydration.

Stay safe friends!

[pcos-and-endo-awareness]

Hey I just got diagnosed with pcos and I’m struggling to lose weight and i have facial hair growing I was wondering if you have any advice? I’m very self conscious about it and when the facial hair started my anxiety and depression went through the roof 

Hi there! Ask your doctor about taking spironolactone. This blocks androgen and can help with excessive hair growth as well as acne. (You may also need to be on birth control before you start this medication.)

Weight gain is a common effect of PCOS and the hardest one to beat (I haven’t found anything to work for me yet!) but many people try ozempic/zepbound or metformin to try to manage insulin resistance. Caution as these meds usually cause lots of sickness like nausea and diarrhea. You may have to switch around meds to see what works for your body specifically. There’s tons of diets and workouts aimed at PCOS but I haven’t had luck with those, but you might!

Anxiety and depression are also often side effects of PCOS, hormones are all out of wack. Unfortunately a lot of the meds that can help (such as birth control) also have side effects of depression and/or anxiety. So yet another med- I take escitalopram but there’s many antidepressants to try.

Unfortunately meds are the key to managing PCOS. Definitely make an appointment and start trying out different kinds to see what works for you! Good luck!

[eatclean-bewhole]

Not all body fat is created equal! If you’re struggling with stubborn weight—especially around your midsection—imbalanced hormones could be part of the equation.

Here’s what you need to know:

Subcutaneous Fat (The Pinchable Kind)

• Found just under the skin (think hips, thighs, arms, and belly).

• Acts as insulation & energy storage.

• More common in women, especially before menopause.

👉🏽How to lose it: Strength training, a protein-rich diet, and balancing blood sugar with whole foods.

Visceral Fat (The Dangerous Kind)

• Wraps around your organs (liver, intestines, etc.).

• Linked to higher risks of heart disease, diabetes & hormone imbalances.

• Often driven by stress, poor sleep, and insulin resistance.

👉🏽How to lose it: Reduce processed carbs, manage stress (hello, cortisol!), and focus on anti-inflammatory foods.

For Women with Hormonal Imbalances:

If you have PCOS, thyroid issues, or are in perimenopause, fat loss can be more complex. Focus on blood sugar stability, protein, fiber, heathy fats, stress management, and strength training to shift your body into fat-burning mode.

Want a deeper dive into shedding fat in a sustainable way? Join our next HarmonizeHer Masterclass on Monday, April 7th @6:30pm MT where we will teach you how to Eat for Your Body Type & Natural Ways to Stimulate GLP-1 Production!

https://events.theholisticchef.com/harmonizeherseries

[mylovelysweetheart]

Hey, I just came across your blog a minute ago and saw your posts about your PCOS, as well as your struggles with weight gain and birth control. I also have PCOS (as well as pre-diabetes) and I’m around the same age as you too 😊 the point is: I am familiar with your struggles. So I wanted to share my story and tell you what worked for me so you could consider it as a potential treatment option.

When I got diagnosed with PCOS several years ago, the doctors just told me the only thing you can do to treat it is birth control, dieting, and exercise, that’s it. 🙄 Which is kinda bullshit tbh and not very helpful, but there’s so little research on the subject of PCOS, so that’s probably all the info they could give me at the time. And I refused to take birth control because of my mother’s stories of the horrible side effects she experienced in it. So the doctors just gave me some medroxyprogesterone tablets every 3 months to induce my period, that’s it. But the doses weren’t often enough, I still never had a regular cycle, and my other symptoms weren’t managed either.

But then I got diagnosed with pre-diabetes a year or two ago, and my doctor recommended putting me on a medication to manage my blood sugar. I heard a lot of good things about Ozempic vs regular glucose regulating meds, so I suggested taking that. That shit changed my life for real!!! I lost 30 pounds, I got more energy, my excessive facial+body hair growth was significantly delayed, I had no more bloating, AND I finally had a regular period cycle for the first time in my entire life!!! 😱 🥳 It’s nuts to me how a drug designed for regulating blood sugar also regulates female/menstruating hormones. It’s been proven in recent studies with other women too!

I didn’t even experience any negative side effects! The only real problem is that my insurance doesn’t cover it, so it costs like $800-900 out of pocket every month 😭 but your insurance might cover it! I highly suggest checking on that and talking to your doctor about Ozempic to see if it works for you, if you’re interested in taking that route. (I also wanna clarify this is not an ad LOL 😂 I just think it’s a really effective medication and I like to spread the word to help my fellow PCOS girlies😌✨)

Sorry for yapping so much lol 😅 I hoped I provided some helpful info. Have a nice day! 💝☀️

OMGGG!!

First off thank you sooo much for sharing your story, it feels good to not feel alone!

Secondly, i totally agree! I actually went to my doctors last week and they prescribed me metformin (a diabetic pill!) so hopefully we can get some help there!!!!

I heard lots of good things about that as well, especially because a lot of people with PCOS have insulin resistance, which makes total sense as to why a diabetic medication would work!

Thanks so much my love for sharing!

MWAAAAAH🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷

[shiningthroughpcos]

Understanding Hirsutism: How PCOS Affects Hair Growth

Hello again, and welcome back to Shining Through PCOS! Today we’re continuing a topic that resonates deeply with many of us living with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)—hirsutism—and how our hormone imbalances contribute to this challenging symptom.

The Hormonal Connection to Hirsutism

Hirsutism, the growth of coarse, dark hair in areas where men typically grow hair, is one of the most distressing symptoms of PCOS. While it’s not uncommon for women to experience unwanted hair growth at some point, for those of us with PCOS, it often feels like a relentless battle against our own bodies. Understanding the underlying hormonal imbalances can help us navigate this challenge with more compassion for ourselves.

Previously, we discussed how some of the conditions we deal with as a result of PCOS overlap. At the heart of hirsutism in women with PCOS are elevated levels of androgens, often referred to as “male hormones.” While everyone has these hormones to some degree, women with PCOS typically have higher-than-normal levels (Rizvi et al., 2023). This hormonal imbalance is primarily due to something called insulin resistance, a condition where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin, leading to higher levels within the bloodstream (Barber et al., 2019). Elevated insulin can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens, which in turn contributes to symptoms like hirsutism, acne, and irregularities in ovulation (Rosenfield & Ehrmann, 2016).

Understanding the Role of Androgens

Androgens play a crucial role in hair growth, but not in the way we might hope. In women with PCOS, the overproduction of hormones like testosterone can lead to the development of male-pattern hair growth (Mihailidis et al., 2015). Common areas for hirsutism include the face, chest, and back, making it a source of significant emotional distress for many of us (Mihailidis et al., 2015).

I remember grappling with so much embarrassment over the abundance of body hair I dealt with as a child. I felt perpetually frustrated and humiliated in my own skin. It’s a tough battle to handle feelings of inadequacy, especially at a young age when you’re not only worried about your self-perception but also how others perceive you. Many people may tell you it’s “just body hair,” but they underestimate the toll it can take. It affects how you perceive yourself, deprives you of your femininity, and impacts your ability to relate to others and feel a sense of normalcy and autonomy. It’s so much more than just hair.

For many women, including myself, it goes beyond mere appearance; it’s about how we feel in our skin. The pressure to meet certain beauty ideals can lead to feelings of shame and isolation, particularly in visible areas where hair growth can’t be ignored. It's vital to remember that these feelings are valid, and seeking support—whether through friends, family, or professional help—can be an important step in managing the emotional toll of PCOS.

Finding Hope in Treatment Options

While hirsutism can be a challenging aspect of living with PCOS, the good news is that effective treatment options are available. Laser-Based Hair Reduction (LBHR) has emerged as a popular choice for many women looking to manage excess hair growth. However, it’s essential to remember that LBHR targets the symptoms, not the underlying hormonal imbalance. Combining this treatment with lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medications like anti-androgens can create a more comprehensive approach to managing hirsutism (Narang et al., 2018).

As a student dermal clinician, I believe it is crucial for service providers to be as transparent as possible. While LBHR is an excellent treatment for addressing the rate of hair growth, length, and density, it is not a simple fix. It becomes even more complex with how LBHR is marketed as “permanent removal” when it is, in fact, “permanent reduction.” This requires a multidisciplinary approach, which can be a lengthy process. Providers must understand when a client needs this comprehensive approach and when to refer patients for aspects of a condition that may be outside our scope of practice.

Unfortunately, patients are often taken in without understanding the complexity of their condition and are not encouraged to seek medical advice regarding their hormonal levels. It’s essential for providers to discuss all aspects of PCOS instead of offering LBHR as a mere band-aid solution.

In future posts, we’ll delve deeper into these treatment options, discussing their benefits and limitations while emphasising the importance of a tailored approach for each individual.

L ᥫ᭡

References

Mihailidis, J., Dermesropian, R., Taxel, P., Luthra, P., & Grant-Kels, J. M. (2015). Endocrine evaluation of hirsutism. International Journal of Women's Dermatology, 1(2), 90-94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2015.04.003

Narang, G. S., Jasleen, J., Kaur, J., & Kaur, T. (2018). Cutis vertices gyrate: A case report. International Journal of Contemporary Pediatrics, 5(4), 1693. https://doi.org/10.18203/2349-3291.ijcp20182592

Rizvi, M., Islam, M. A., Aftab, M. T., Naqvi, A. A., Jahangir, A., Ishaqui, A. A., Iqbal, M. Z., & Iqbal, M. S. (2023). Knowledge, attitude, and perceptions about polycystic ovarian syndrome, and its determinants among Pakistani undergraduate students. PLOS ONE, 18(5), e0285284. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0285284

Rosenfield, R. L., & Ehrmann, D. A. (2016). The pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): The hypothesis of PCOS as functional ovarian hyperandrogenism revisited. Endocrine Reviews, 37(5), 467-520. https://doi.org/10.1210/er.2015-1104

[pcosdiva123]

How to Lose Weight with PCOS: 8 Helpful Tips

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects millions of women worldwide, and one of its most challenging symptoms is weight gain. The hormonal imbalances associated with PCOS can make losing weight particularly difficult. However, with the right approach, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is possible. Here are eight helpful tips for losing weight with PCOS.

Focus on a Low Glycemic Index (GI) Diet

Women with PCOS often have insulin resistance, which can lead to weight gain. A low GI diet can help manage insulin levels and reduce cravings:

Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables

Avoid processed foods and sugary snacks

Include protein and healthy fats with each meal to slow down sugar absorption

Example meal: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and roasted vegetables.

2. Increase Protein Intake

Protein is crucial for weight loss, especially for women with PCOS:

Helps you feel fuller for longer

Supports muscle mass, which boosts metabolism

Aids in balancing blood sugar levels

Aim for lean protein sources like fish, poultry, tofu, or legumes at each meal.

3. Incorporate Regular Exercise

Physical activity is essential for managing PCOS symptoms and promoting weight loss:

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week

Include both cardio and strength training in your routine

Try activities like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling

Consider HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) for efficient fat burning

Remember, consistency is key. Find activities you enjoy to make exercise a sustainable habit.

4. Manage Stress Levels

Chronic stress can worsen PCOS symptoms and make weight loss more challenging:

Practice stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga

Prioritize self-care and relaxation time

Consider talking to a therapist or counselor for additional support

Reducing stress can help balance hormones and reduce stress-related eating.

5. Prioritize Sleep

Adequate sleep is crucial for weight management and hormone balance:

Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night

Establish a consistent sleep schedule

Create a relaxing bedtime routine

Avoid screens before bed

Good sleep hygiene can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce cravings.

6. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is often overlooked but is essential for weight loss:

Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily

Replace sugary drinks with water or herbal teas

Consume water-rich foods like cucumbers and watermelon

Staying hydrated can help reduce false hunger cues and support overall health.

7. Consider Supplements

Some supplements may aid in PCOS management and weight loss:

Inositol: May improve insulin sensitivity and ovulation

Omega-3 fatty acids: Can reduce inflammation and support hormone balance

Vitamin D: Often deficient in women with PCOS and important for overall health

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

8. Practice Mindful Eating

Mindful eating can help you develop a healthier relationship with food:

Eat slowly and without distractions

Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues

Choose nutrient-dense foods that nourish your body

Avoid restrictive diets that may lead to binge eating

Mindful eating can help prevent overeating and promote a balanced approach to nutrition.

Conclusion:

Losing weight with PCOS can be challenging, but it's not impossible. By focusing on a low GI diet, increasing protein intake, exercising regularly, managing stress, prioritizing sleep, staying hydrated, considering appropriate supplements, and practicing mindful eating, you can create a sustainable approach to weight loss.

Remember that everyone's journey is different, and it's essential to be patient and kind to yourself. Small, consistent changes often lead to the most sustainable results. If you're struggling with weight loss or PCOS management, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian who specializes in PCOS for personalized advice and support.

With dedication and the right strategies, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health while managing PCOS. Stay positive, stay consistent, and celebrate every small victory along the way!

[omegawizardposting]

As someone with PCOS (which heavily involves insulin issues) the elevated liver numbers are likely caused by insulin issues! I get my blood checked and consistently find my cholesterol is somewhat out of whack due to insulin resistance but even on meds my A1c is just within normal. There are a lot of strategies for lowering insulin spikes from meals that are low effort (like refrigerating or freezing carb sources to make starches resistant). There're also supplements that act like some medicines but thankfully metformin seems to be one of the cheapest medicines we make (after checking GoodRX, Walmart charges $4 without insurance for a months supply) and as long as your stomach isn't too upset by it, it's very effective

Metformin is NOT a kind drug, unfortunately, and I'm already on several unkind drugs. With my liver disease, I have to be extremely careful about what I take.

I do also have PCOS on top of my diabetes, which could be a contributing factor to my high blood sugar. Two of my necessary meds can also cause high blood sugar.

Due to how many issues I have, though, it's a real puzzle trying to manage my health. PCOS, diabetes, psoriatic arthritis, gastrointestinal issues, and then my liver disease is the cherry on top. All of them require different medications to manage, and some of those meds interfere with others, and some have side effects that can harm my liver or raise my blood sugar, and--

[wellhealthhub]

Does metformin make you gain weight?

Dive deep into the complex interplay between metformin and weight gain. Discover the multifaceted factors influencing this relationship and acquire practical insights for effective weight management during metformin treatment. Introduction In the realm of medications influencing body weight, metformin frequently emerges as both a lifesaver and a subject of curiosity. This comprehensive article…