Written by Eden Davis, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and co-owner of Pearl Wellness Practice
Are you part of the 70% of women with PCOS who have been diagnosed with insulin resistance? Did you leave the visit feeling confused, overwhelmed, and frustrated? Let's dive into the world of insulin resistance and how it relates to the majority of individuals experiencing PCOS.
Insight on Insulin
Insulin is the main growth hormone in the body produced by the beta cells of the pancreatic islets. Insulin is released from the pancreas to assist the cell in absorbing glucose for energy. In those with PCOS, the cells are less receptive (more resistant) to insulin, causing the pancreas to excrete more into the bloodstream. Signs of hyperinsulinemia include:
Excessive thirst
Frequent urination
Intense cravings for simple carbs and sweets
Fatigue
A dark velvety patch in the fold of the skin
Excessive hunger
Sudden weight fluctuation
If left unmanaged, insulin resistance in PCOS may lead to:
Fertility challenges
Increased inflammation in the body
Type 2 diabetes
Metabolic syndrome
Although it can feel intimidating to explore insulin resistance in relation to PCOS, it doesn't have to be! Women are able to manage PCOS while decreasing insulin levels by integrating realistic and sustainable changes in their lifestyle.
The truth is that there is no "magical pill" or "quick fix diet" to reverse PCOS. This endocrine and hormonal disorder is unfortunately lifelong. However, research has shown that insulin resistance can be improved and alleviate pain that is commonly associated this PCOS through applying gentle nutrition, joyful movement, gut health, supplements, and more.
Treatment for Insulin Resistance and PCOS
Our in-house Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Eden Davis, works with women toward healing their relationship with PCOS and insulin resistance.
Recognizing the challenging nature, Eden enjoys approaching the diagnosis through a Health at Every Size and realistic perspective when it comes to treatment. As she's seen this produces the most effective and long-term behavioral changes for individuals.
Gentle nutrition: When it comes to this diagnosis and insulin resistance, we don't need another crazy, unrealistic, restrictive diet to follow. We need to understand nutrition from an evidence-based, gentle approach. Enjoying the food we love, while tweaking it to support our body and lifestyle.
Joyful movement: Do you believe the words joyful and movement go together? If not, let's chat! We have loads of research that shows how impactful movement can be for this diagnosis. However, we need to go about it in an enjoyable and realistic way. Finding movement that feels good to the mind, body, and soul.
Gut health: Could your IBS, constipation, diarrhea, or nausea be related to PCOS? Together, we chat about gut health and how we can sprinkle prebiotic and probiotic food sources into your daily routine without needing to do a 180.
Supplements: There are some incredible supplements that can be helpful for fertility, increasing insulin sensitivity, and managing PCOS. Supplements can be overwhelming, expensive, and sometimes unnecessary. We break down the research behind specific supplements and show those that have been third-party tested.
Through the PCOS Course, women can work at their own pace toward understanding the complexity of this diagnosis and how it relates to insulin resistance, what lifestyle factors can be implemented to find lasting relief, support through infertility, and so much more.
Check out the course today or reach out to Eden for more information! Pearl Wellness Practice wishes you or your loved one the best on this wellness journey.
With Pearls of Wisdom,
Eden & Kira
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