5 hormones which can get elevated in PCOS
PCOS and the Hormone Rollercoaster: Understanding the Players and Taking Control with Diet (by Ankita Sehgal, Registered Dietitian)
Hey this is Ankita Sehgal here, your registered dietitian with over 15 years of experience guiding women in India through the complexities of PCOS. Today, we're tackling a topic that keeps many of you searching online: hormonal imbalances in PCOS.
What keeps you up at night?
"Why are my periods all over the place?"
"Is this weight gain a PCOS thing?"
"Can I manage PCOS symptoms naturally?"
These are some common questions, and the answer often lies in understanding the hormonal symphony (or sometimes, cacophony) happening inside you.
The Hormonal Cast of PCOS:
PCOS disrupts the delicate balance of several key hormones, causing a cascade of symptoms. Let's meet the main characters:
Testosterone: Often thought of as a "male" hormone, women naturally have small amounts. In PCOS, testosterone levels can surge, leading to unwanted facial hair and acne.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH helps follicles mature in your ovaries. In PCOS, LH levels may be higher than FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), which disrupts egg development and ovulation.
Insulin: This hormone regulates blood sugar. In PCOS, insulin resistance can occur, leading to higher insulin levels and further fueling androgen production.
Estrogen: Produced by the ovaries, estrogen plays a crucial role in your menstrual cycle. When androgens are elevated, estrogen production can be suppressed, causing irregular periods.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): AMH reflects the number of egg follicles in your ovaries. In PCOS, AMH levels may be higher, indicating a higher number of immature follicles but not necessarily better egg quality.
Source: National Institutes of Health - Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Diet: Your PCOS Superhero:
While there's no magic bullet for PCOS, research shows that diet can be a powerful tool! Here's how you can use food to manage your hormones:
Tame the Blood Sugar Rollercoaster: Focus on low-glycemic foods like whole grains, vegetables, and healthy fats. This helps regulate blood sugar and reduce androgen production by insulin.
Fight Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can worsen PCOS symptoms. Fill your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables that are packed with antioxidants. Don't forget omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish , flaxseeds , walnuts – they're anti-inflammatory rockstars!
Weight Management: Even modest weight loss can significantly improve hormone levels and ovulation in PCOS. Focus on portion control and nutrient-dense meals that keep you feeling satisfied.
Taking Charge of Your PCOS Journey:
Understanding the hormonal shifts in PCOS empowers you to make informed choices about your health. You're not alone in this! With a balanced diet, professional support, and a positive attitude, you can manage your PCOS effectively.
Ankita Sehgal, Registered DietitianOver 15 years of experience helping manage PCOS in India
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and shouldn't substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
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