PCOS is a condition that affects as many as 1 in 10 women, many of whom are suffering in silence.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, better known as PCOS is relatively more common than some may assume. It affects 12-18 percent of women in the reproductive age category, however, almost 70 percent of women suffering from PCOS remain undiagnosed. It is a hormonal condition in which the female body has higher levels of male hormones. As the name of it displays itself, the literal translation of 'polycystic' is 'many cysts.' For better understanding this is when many cysts have formed on the ovaries, however, they have not reached maturity nor produced eggs that can be fertilized. This is spotted via ultrasounds, however polycystic cysts are not the only symptom to be diagnosed with PCOS, the following symptoms may persist in individuals when experiencing PCOS:
What are the symptoms of PCOS?
The following may present themselves for those suffering from PCOS:
- Commonly a hereditary condition, mother or sister may have it which gives you a 1 in 2 chance of also having it
- Overweight
- Amenorrhoea (loss of periods) or irregular cycles
- Acne
- Excess hair growth predominantly on your face, chest, back, and stomach
- Scalp hair loss or thinning
- Easy weight gain even when monitoring exercise and food intake
- Depression and anxiety
How to get a diagnosis for PCOS
Once you've been diagnosed it also puts you at a higher risk of developing health problems such as:
- Type 2 diabetes - especially if overweight
- Endometrial Cancer
- Sleep apnoea
- Heart disease
- High Cholesterol
If you are experiencing multiple of these symptoms, a simple trip to your health care professional will be able to properly diagnose you with PCOS. Blood tests, an ultrasound of your ovaries and testing hormone levels are all involved in identifying it. Early diagnosis may support better management of symptoms and general wellbeing.
How to manage and treat PCOS symptoms
PCOS is a long-term condition so when it comes to treatment it is up to the individual to enforce lifestyle changes to help monitor the symptoms they are experiencing. Depending on those symptoms the following lifestyle modifications play a positive role in managing and preventing further risks from arising:
Lifestyle Modifications
Maintaining physical activity and a healthy diet both play a vital role in preventing higher risk problems from happening. Many sufferers of PCOS have blood sugar resistance, which can lead to diabetes. A diet consisting of wholesome foods and healthy fats may support general health and wellbeing. Being hormonal condition foods and supplements best for women include magnesium, healthy fats and a range of vitamins including Vitamin B, fish oil, Calcium and Vitamin D. A decrease in caffeine, alcohol, and sugar have all also shown positive effects on the individual's overall wellbeing.
Weight Reduction
Maintaining a healthy weight may support general health and wellbeing. Speak to your healthcare professional about the role of weight management in your individual circumstances.
Medical Treatment
With today's fast-evolving medical specialists, there is still no single form of medication to cure PCOS. There are however different forms of medication that again can prevent symptoms from worsening and these include:
- Hormonal medications to block testosterone - to help those with excess hair growth on face and body
- Infertility medications are available via your GP to help bring on ovulation if you are trying and struggling.
- Psychological Counselling if moods are your more dominant symptom
- Contraception Pill to help regulate irregular periods or sufferers of acne.
What supplements can I take for PCOS?
As mentioned above lifestyle changes are a vital role in managing PCOS - and we here at Elite Supps want to help you make your journey easier. The following products may support general health and wellbeing as part of a healthy lifestyle.
- Venus E-Tox - Estrogen is an essential hormone, however those with PCOS can experience too much. This in turn creates symptoms such as bloat, mood swings, increased stress and appetite.
- Thyroid RX - Weight gain and trouble losing weight/controlling cravings is the most common and frustrating side effect for a woman suffering PCOS. T432 is one of our popular products, formulated to support a healthy lifestyle as part of a balanced diet and exercise routine. This amazing product is science backed and continues to work magic for PCOS sufferers.
- Adrenal Switch - Many of the physical and emotional symptoms that come with PCOS can be quite draining and concerning for most woman. Adrenal Switch contains magnesium, zinc, B6, and ashwagandha, which may help support general relaxation and overall wellbeing as part of a daily routine.
- MCT Oil - Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is an important part of general health and wellbeing. Speak to your healthcare professional for personalised advice. MCT Oil is a source of medium-chain triglycerides and may support general health and wellbeing as part of a balanced diet. An important add on to any diet.
- Herbs of Gold Activated B Complex - Studies have shown the main concern for PCOS sufferers is not impossible, but heightened difficulties associated with fertility. Herbs of Gold Activated B Complex contains folate, biotin, and pyridoxine, which may support general health and wellbeing in women.
- Pre Pump - If you prefer to avoid stimulants, this stimulant-free pre-workout may help support your energy levels during physical activity.
