How to Treat PCOS Naturally

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine condition among women of reproductive age. Characterized by irregular periods, ovarian cysts, anovulation (lack of ovulation), hormonal imbalance, insulin resistance, and infertility, it’s a chronic and frustrating condition. Women can go undiagnosed for years since symptoms like irregular periods are often masked by the birth control pill.

Unfortunately, PCOS cannot be “cured.” However, if you’re wondering how to treat PCOS naturally, many holistic approaches can help calibrate hormone imbalances and insulin resistance, regulate periods, and support fertility in women with PCOS.

Have you struggled to find a care team that can help you address your PCOS without the use of birth control?  Today’s blog post covers everything you need to know about holistic PCOS treatment in Denver.  

Causes of PCOS

While the exact causes of PCOS are complicated, insulin resistance and hormone signaling play a critical role. There is also a large genetic component to PCOS. If a relative like your mother, sister, or aunt had PCOS, your chances of also having the condition are much higher. 

Most of the symptoms of PCOS are caused by higher-than-normal levels of certain hormones, called androgens. This can… 

  • Interfere with brain signals regarding ovulation, causing it to occur irregularly. 

  • Cause the follicles to enlarge and stop developing.

  • Produce other symptoms of PCOS, including excess hair growth and acne.

Other symptoms of PCOS result from problems with insulin. Too much insulin increases androgen production. It also increases appetite, which can lead to weight gain. 

Holistic PCOS Treatment in Denver

Wondering how to treat PCOS naturally and holistically? Many women ease their symptoms through lifestyle modifications: 

Diet Changes

Eating the right foods and avoiding certain ingredients can help you manage PCOS symptoms. Prioritize whole foods — including plenty of vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins — while minimizing processed foods and refined sugar. 

Specifically, we suggest: 

  • Balancing your carb and protein intake. Eating protein prompts your body to produce insulin, and a high-protein diet improves insulin resistance. 

  • Aiming for anti-inflammatory. Anti-inflammatory foods — like those found in the Mediterranean Diet — can ease symptoms of PCOS. 

  • Increasing your iron intake. If you experience heavy bleeding during your period, upping your iron intake might help. 

  • Increasing magnesium. Almonds, cashews, bananas, and spinach are all PCOS-friendly foods that are high in magnesium. (Magnesium can alleviate menstrual pain and inflammation, while also supporting sleep and relaxation.)

  • Adding in fiber for digestion. A high-fiber diet supports digestion and weight management. High-fiber foods include lentils, brussels sprouts, lima beans, avocados, broccoli, and pears. If you can tolerate these, we highly recommend adding more of them to your diet. 

  • Decreasing caffeine. Some research suggests caffeine consumption is linked to changing estrogen levels and hormone behavior. 

Exercise for PCOS

Regular exercise regulates insulin levels, manages weight, and minimizes stress. Plus, research shows that high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and resistance training can improve PCOS symptoms. More specifically, women with PCOS should strive for 120 minutes of vigorous-intensity per week. If you’re unsure of where to start, working with a PCOS fitness trainer can help. 

Herbal Remedies

Several herbal remedies can improve PCOS symptoms with minimal side effects:

  • Maca Root. The root of the maca plant may help balance hormones and lower cortisol. 

  • Holy Basil. Holy basil addresses metabolic stress. It also helps reduce blood sugar, prevent weight gain, and lower cortisol levels. 

  • Licorice Root. Licorice root is an anti-inflammatory agent. It helps metabolize sugar and balance hormones. 

Before starting any supplement or nutraceutical regimen, please speak with your functional medicine provider. Every woman with PCOS presents differently. Consequently, every treatment plan requires a customized approach. 

PCOS Management in Denver

Want to know how to treat PCOS naturally? Denver Holistic Medicine offers our patients comprehensive treatment plans that are tailored to their bodies, medical conditions, and health goals. 

Dr. Simone Sturm combines functional medicine, herbal medicine, nutraceutical supplementation, optimal nutrition, and functional fitness to help women with a variety of conditions recover balance and reach their fullest health potential. 
With our integrated approach, we’re confident in our ability to relieve any and all of your PCOS symptoms. Contact our team to get started.

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