PCOS Blog Post
Posted by Shanna Alexander on
PCOS is a hormonal disorder that’s common in women of reproductive age. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, though there are many women living with this disorder.
70% of women with PCOS are insulin resistant. Understanding what this means and how to remedy symptoms can help you live a far more comfortable and enjoyable life.
Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that regulates the absorption of glucose into the cells. When someone is insulin resistant, their pancreas needs to produce more and more of the hormone in order for the body to properly absorb glucose. Insulin resistance can lead to inflammation in the body. Symptoms include weight gain, sugar cravings, skin tags, hypoglycemia, and skin rashes. Additionally, insulin resistance can cause fatigue, anxiety, and affect the immune system.
The first thing that’s important to be aware of when treating PCOS and symptoms caused by insulin resistance is to look at what you’re putting in your body. Take note of the food you’re eating and any medicine you’re taking. For example, birth control can worsen these symptoms and should be avoided.
When looking at your diet, consider removing processed foods, gluten, and dairy from the things you consume every day. Instead, opt for unprocessed fruits, veggies, whole grains, and beans. Additionally, unprocessed high-carb vegetables can help stabilize insulin. A fantastic way of eating is the Mediterranean diet which uses plenty of olive oil, tomatoes, leafy greens, fatty fish, and tree nuts which all fight inflammation.
In addition to shifting your diet, you can use essential oils in order to mitigate the effects of insulin resistance and PCOS. For example, Holy Basil improves cortisol and insulin resistance while supporting hormone imbalance. Clary sage may also help with regulating hormones and Roman Chamomile may help lower stress and improve infertility. To use these oils, make a mixture with 2 to 3 drops of essential oil and your favorite carrier oil like coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil. Rub the mixture on your abdomen or the front of your neck 2 to 3 times per day.
With the correct diet and the use of essential oils, you can easily manage the symptoms of PCOS and insulin resistance.