Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that affects the function of the ovaries. According to the NHS, around one in 10 women in the UK are thought to have polycystic ovaries, while the World Health Organization estimates that up to 70 per cent of cases are undiagnosed and most affected It is estimated that up to half of women with polycystic ovaries are unaware of their polycystic ovaries. There are no obvious symptoms.
In fact, many women don’t realize they have PCOS until they have trouble conceiving, as it’s the most common cause of anovulatory infertility, which occurs when no eggs are released. As a result, the charity Tommy’s, which funds research into miscarriages, stillbirths and premature births, estimates that one in five women may have PCOS, and that this is a significant increase in women of reproductive age. It has become the most common hormonal disorder affecting the human body.
Although there is no cure for PCOS, symptoms can be treated and improved through a combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and medications. Managing PCOS symptoms can also help protect a woman’s future health. This is important because more than half of women with PCOS develop type 2 diabetes by the time they are 40 years old. Studies suggest that PCOS also increases the risk of developing high cholesterol and hyperemia, and doubles the risk of heart attack and stroke. pressure.
Jump to:
PCOS causes numerous “cysts” or follicles to develop on the ovaries, each containing an undeveloped egg. These follicles may not be able to release eggs, which means ovulation does not occur and causes irregular or absent periods.
The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it often runs in families and is associated with abnormal hormone levels, including high levels of the hormone insulin, which controls sugar levels in the body.
PCOS symptoms often begin in your late teens or early 20s, but they can come and go over time. These include:
- Irregular or irregular menstruation
- difficult to get pregnant
- Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, back, or buttocks
- weight gain
- thinning hair or hair loss
- acne
It is important to note that symptoms do not automatically stop when a woman reaches menopause.
“The main causes of PCOS tend to be genetic predisposition, followed by insulin resistance, inflammation, and stress, and most women with PCOS have a combination of all three,” says Registered Nutritional Therapist and PCOS Clinic founder Alex Allan explains. . “Many women rely on dietary and lifestyle measures to reduce these factors and control PCOS symptoms. This includes the use of supplements.”
She further added: “While supplements can help control her PCOS symptoms, they’re really just one tool in the toolbox. When you look at your diet as a whole, it helps with blood sugar balance, stress tolerance, sleep, and exercise. It’s essential.”
Depending on your symptoms and goals, there are several supplements that can help balance your hormones and alleviate some of the symptoms associated with PCOS. Dr. Soer Rokdo, general practitioner, functional medicine and hormone physician, says: If you eat a lot of junk food, taking 5 different supplements won’t help, but some people find supplements very helpful in combination with conventional treatments. ”
Alan added: “It’s best to check with your GP or nutritionist before taking any new supplements. If you’re trying to conceive, consult a fertility dietitian or healthcare professional to ensure safe use.” You should check your supplements with your provider,” he adds.
Here are the PCOS supplements recommended by our experts:
Inositol, also known as vitamin B8, is a type of sugar produced in the body. Found in foods such as nuts, grains, fruits, and beans. This is probably the most well-known supplement for PCOS and is usually taken as a powder and dissolved in water to create a sweet-tasting drink.
How does it work?
Studies have shown that inositol can help reduce insulin resistance, improve ovarian function, and balance hormones in women with PCOS.
Alan said: “Inositol exists in many forms, but the two most common in supplements are myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol (DCI). Achieving good blood sugar balance by eliminating excess sugar and ultra-processed foods from the diet is more effective in reducing insulin production and relieving symptoms of PCOS. Don’t forget that.”
The body produces vitamin D when sunlight hits the skin, but during the dark and gloomy autumn and winter months, people in the UK don’t produce enough. This is why the NHS recommends that you consider taking a vitamin D supplement during autumn and winter. People who are housebound, cover their skin, or have dark skin can benefit from supplements year-round.
How does it work?
Research shows that vitamin D helps improve the body’s response to insulin. This may improve symptoms of PCOS.
Dr Louise Newson, general practitioner and menopause specialist, said: “Studies have shown that a high proportion of women with PCOS are also deficient in vitamin D. This vitamin D deficiency can worsen symptoms of PCOS, including insulin resistance, ovulation abnormalities, and irregular menstrual periods. There are increased risk factors for fertility problems, hirsutism, obesity, depression, and cardiovascular disease. ”
B vitamins are a group of eight essential nutrients, each with unique functions. Overall, they support metabolism, boost immunity, support cardiovascular and hormonal health, and help regulate stress.
