Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
by Andra Sitoianu, ND
(note from anabology: check out wellnessbyandra.com or x.com/bioavailablend)

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Diagnosis Requirements:

• At least two of the following (all three in teens)
• Irregular or Absent Periods
• Clinical or Lab Findings of Hyperandrogenism:
  • Acne: often Cystic
  • Hirsutism: excessive hair growth particularly chin, chest, around nipples and/or areas associated with testosterone.
  • Polycystic Ovaries: More than 12 follicles 2-9 mm or Ovarian Volume greater than 10 ml
• NOTE: not all women who have polycystic ovaries have this Syndrome. Around 22% of normal ovulating women have polycystic ovaries.

Lab markers:

• Total Testosterone > 3nmol/L
• Free Androgen Index = 100 x
• Estrogen is normal or high
• LH is elevated
• LH/FSH ratio is 3:1
• DHEA over 200
• Insulin Resistance
  • High Fasting Blood Sugar
  • High Fasting Insulin
• High LDL Cholesterol and Triglycerides
• Low Progesterone, especially luteal

Root Causes to investigate:

• Low thyroid function
• Insulin Resistance
• Chronic Stress / Exercise
• Gut Dysbiosis and Infections: yeast, h pylori, mold
• Poor Liver Drainage:
  • Environmental Toxin Exposures
  • PCOS is associated with elevated levels of phthalates and heavy metals like iron overload, copper toxicity or mercury.
• Estrogen Dominance

Nutrition & Lifestyle

• Most of calories to be eaten in the AM: will drop insulin and testosterone by approx. 50%
• Insulin balancing tips:
  • Savory breakfast > sweet breakfast
  • Protein centered at every meal or snacks.
  • Vinegar based side dishes like sauerkraut when starches are present
  • 10 min walk post meal
  • Blue light toxicity increases insulin resistance: incandescent lightbulbs, candles, f.lux app, etc.
• Carbs welcomed in the form of seasonal fruit & honey, starches like rice/potatoes to be enjoyed when sun is out.
• Minimize PUFA, processed foods & estrogenic foods: wheat grains, soy, corn
• Often rooted in the alpha female archetype and emphasis of masculine aspects of self. It would be beneficial to work on honoring femininity and allow receptivity, creativity, and rest.
• Improve relationship with light and nature: sun gazing, grounding
• Exercise:
  • moderate intensity, moderate weights are ideal
  • daily walks: 8-10K steps
  • high intensity is not recommended

Supplemental support

• Inositol
• Correct nutritional deficiencies:
  • Vitamin D, Zinc, Magnesium, Chromium, C & E
• Testosterone Inhibitors:
  • Reishi, Stinging Nettle, Saw Palmetto, Spearmint
  • Therapeutics often found in prostate health formulations
• Blood sugar regulators:
  • Cinnamon, Rosemary, Ginger, Antioxidants, ALA
  • Root cause approaches: berberine, oregano, noni, lactoferrin, s. boulardii
• Ovulation/Hormones:
  • Vitamin C & E, L-Carnitine, NAC, Coq10
  • B6
  • Dry Freeze organs: liver, kidney, uterus, fallopian tubes
  • Oral or Topical Progesterone
  • Thyroid, Pregnenolone
• Stress:
  • Electrolytes
  • Calcium, Magnesium, K2
  • Dry freeze Adrenal Tissue
  • L-Theanine/Gaba
  • Rhodiola, Schisandra, Holy Basil