Post by Angie on Oct 24, 2008 20:02:40 GMT -5
PCOS Guidelines
You must first address the root cause of PCOS, which is Insulin Resistance.
Since obesity is usually a key component of PCOS, getting your weight under control is the next step. A low-carb diet has proved to be effective in not only weight loss programs but also in helping to control the production of insulin in the pancreas. But keep in mind that lean women can also have PCOS.
Some doctors will prescribe birth control pills to assist in regulating or restoring irregular or absent periods. But there is growing controversy over using pills because it is now thought they may actually worsen Insulin Resistance. While it is true that introducing the female hormone can counteract some of the effects of over-active testosterone production, the short-term benefits of restoring a period may be offset by the long-term effects of worsening the underlying root cause of the condition. Think long and hard before you begin taking birth control pills if you have PCOS.
Exercise is a necessary component of dealing with the symptoms of PCOS. Exercise increases the number of receptor sites on your cells' surface, boosts metabolism, burns calories and helps to level out the production of insulin in the pancreas.
Choose a balanced, healthy diet that doesn't include foods with a high glycemic index, like bread, pasta, rice, refined sugars, potatoes and corn. Avoid artificial sweeteners which can raise insulin levels.
Avoid stimulants like caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. Even over-the-counter cold and flu medications can contain stimulants, causing spikes in insulin production and release.
Your doctor may need to address collateral issues such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol issues with medication until they come under control naturally with your weight loss.
Consider the Insulite PCOS System which incorporates pure neutraceuticals (vitamins, minerals and herbs that are disease specific); reasonable Nutrition and Exercise Plans and a Support Network to keep you motivated and informed.
You must first address the root cause of PCOS, which is Insulin Resistance.
Since obesity is usually a key component of PCOS, getting your weight under control is the next step. A low-carb diet has proved to be effective in not only weight loss programs but also in helping to control the production of insulin in the pancreas. But keep in mind that lean women can also have PCOS.
Some doctors will prescribe birth control pills to assist in regulating or restoring irregular or absent periods. But there is growing controversy over using pills because it is now thought they may actually worsen Insulin Resistance. While it is true that introducing the female hormone can counteract some of the effects of over-active testosterone production, the short-term benefits of restoring a period may be offset by the long-term effects of worsening the underlying root cause of the condition. Think long and hard before you begin taking birth control pills if you have PCOS.
Exercise is a necessary component of dealing with the symptoms of PCOS. Exercise increases the number of receptor sites on your cells' surface, boosts metabolism, burns calories and helps to level out the production of insulin in the pancreas.
Choose a balanced, healthy diet that doesn't include foods with a high glycemic index, like bread, pasta, rice, refined sugars, potatoes and corn. Avoid artificial sweeteners which can raise insulin levels.
Avoid stimulants like caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. Even over-the-counter cold and flu medications can contain stimulants, causing spikes in insulin production and release.
Your doctor may need to address collateral issues such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol issues with medication until they come under control naturally with your weight loss.
Consider the Insulite PCOS System which incorporates pure neutraceuticals (vitamins, minerals and herbs that are disease specific); reasonable Nutrition and Exercise Plans and a Support Network to keep you motivated and informed.
