This episode goes deeper into the role of luteinizing hormone (LH) in regulating the menstrual cycle and its implications for those with PCOS. Discover the essential functions of LH, how it influences fertility, and why it's particularly significant for understanding and managing PCOS symptoms and health.

Key Functions of Luteinizing Hormone

Luteinizing hormone plays a critical role in both men and women by regulating important aspects of the reproductive system. For women, LH is crucial for managing estrogen and progesterone levels, which are essential to creating the rhythm of the menstrual cycle's phases. Learn how LH operates within a healthy cycle, including the sharp surge before ovulation, which is crucial for releasing the egg.

Challenges of LH Imbalance in PCOS

Many women with PCOS experience an imbalance in their LH-to-FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) ratio, which can lead to disrupted menstrual cycles and challenges with ovulation. This section explains the typical LH imbalances seen in PCOS, how they affect the body, and the complications that may arise, such as the failure to trigger proper ovulation and the development of cystic ovaries.

Limitations of Ovulation Predictor Kits for PCOS

You will learn the limitations of ovulation predictor kits (OPKs) for women with PCOS, who may experience misleading results due to chronically elevated LH levels. Explore why these tools often fail to provide accurate readings and how they can lead to confusion about ovulation and fertility windows.

Addressing the Root Causes of LH Dysfunction in PCOS

Understanding and managing the underlying causes of elevated LH and testosterone levels can help improve their effects on the menstrual cycle and overall health. We discuss strategies to discover and manage the common triggers of LH imbalances in PCOS.

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:

https://nourishedtohealthy.com/137

In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast! I’ll focus on a prevalent issue many women with PCOS face, illustrated through the journey of one of my patients Janelle. This episode uncovers the common challenges and misconceptions surrounding PCOS from adolescence through adulthood and gives you a window into what the path to PCOS freedom looks like.

Janelle’s Struggle with PCOS

Janelle’s PCOS symptoms began subtly with semi-regular periods during her teenage years, leading to a diagnosis and subsequent birth control treatment in her late teens. However, the temporary solution masked underlying issues, which surfaced dramatically when she discontinued birth control at 27 to start a family. The absence of natural periods post-birth control led Janelle through a frustrating cycle of unsuccessful fertility treatments, highlighting the need for a different approach to her PCOS management.

Achieving Natural Menstrual Regularity

After years of hormonal treatments with little success, Janelle sought an alternative strategy focusing on natural restoration of her menstrual cycle. During this episode I will walk you through what changes she made and how she approaches her PCOS health differently so that she could finally experience regular cycles and ultimately optimize her fertility

Comprehensive Approach to Managing PCOS

This episode explores the importance of understanding the intricacies of PCOS and why conventional methods like birth control and reactive fertility treatments often fall short. Through Janelle’s experience, we’ll discuss the effectiveness of the Dutch test in providing a detailed hormonal landscape, which is crucial for tailoring treatment strategies that address specific imbalances and root causes.

Lessons from Janelle’s Journey

Janelle’s story will illustrate the powerful reminder of how important a proactive and informed approach to PCOS is. By integrating comprehensive hormonal testing and embracing a holistic lifestyle focus, women can significantly enhance their health and fertility. This episode will assist you seek out and advocate for personalized care and to explore all avenues for managing their PCOS effectively.

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:

https://nourishedtohealthy.com/136

This episode of the PCOS Repair podcast focuses on harnessing the power of exercise to enhance hormone balance and manage PCOS symptoms effectively. This episode is all about actionable steps. Here, you will discover the truths about physical activity and PCOS, differentiate the myths that could be hindering your progress, and learn how to tailor an exercise regimen that optimizes your health.

PCOS and Exercise

Exercise is universally acknowledged as a vital component of a healthy lifestyle. However, for those managing PCOS, the landscape of information can often be confusing and contradictory. This episode clarifies the factual benefits of exercise for PCOS, helps you navigate through the common myths, and provides guidance on developing a workout routine that is not only effective but enjoyable—ensuring it becomes a consistent part of your lifestyle.

Progressive Exercise: Building a Sustainable Routine

Understanding the progressive nature of exercise is crucial. While eating healthily is more straightforward, exercise requires a build-up in intensity and complexity. Whether you're lifting weights or engaging in cardio, it's essential to start at a level that matches your current fitness and gradually increase the challenge. This segment encourages listeners to view fitness as a journey, emphasizing the importance of progression and adaptation over time.

Controversies of Exercise for PCOS

The episode also tackles the controversies surrounding PCOS and exercise, particularly the myths about cortisol and intense physical activity. It breaks down the science behind stress and exercise, offering insights into how to manage and monitor your body's response to ensure your activities are beneficial, not detrimental.

Implementing an Effective PCOS Exercise Strategy

Finally, you will learn how to implement an effective exercise strategy tailored to your specific PCOS symptoms and fitness goals. This includes practical tips on monitoring your progress, adjusting your routine as needed, and working collaboratively with healthcare providers to ensure your exercise plan is safe and effective.

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:

https://nourishedtohealthy.com/135

This episode shines a spotlight on ashwagandha, a supplement that might be beneficial for those managing PCOS. Known for its stress-relieving properties, ashwagandha has been used historically across Asia and Africa and falls under the category of adaptogens, which are agents believed to help the body resist various types of stress.

Understanding Adaptogens

You’ll learn about how ashwagandha helps the body manage both physical and mental stress by potentially reducing the activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This action may regulate how much cortisol is distributed throughout the body, aiding in stress management.

The Benefits of Ashwagandha for PCOS

Explore various studies that have investigated ashwagandha's effectiveness in reducing perceived stress, enhanced athletic performance, and potentially aiding in conditions such as anxiety and depression. Discussions include dosage recommendations and insights into the specific benefits for PCOS symptoms.

Who Should Consider Ashwagandha?

I will also cover important considerations and precautions for those thinking about adding ashwagandha to their supplement regimen. Special attention is given to its appropriateness for pregnant women, individuals with autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, or liver issues, and the recommended duration for its use. You will learn how ashwagandha can fit into a broader PCOS management strategy that includes nutrition, exercise, and medical treatments.

For a deeper dive into PCOS supplements here is my detailed guide. This guide offers comprehensive insights into the supplements that may help manage PCOS effectively, along with exclusive discounts for podcast listeners.

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:
https://nourishedtohealthy.com/134

In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, we tackle a hot topic that has stirred many questions among our listeners—what to eat to help improve PCOS symptoms. Whether it’s the occasional sweetener in your coffee, weekly pizza nights, or navigating gluten-free options, today’s discussion aims to address these concerns and more, guiding you towards making informed nutritional choices for managing PCOS.

PCOS Nutrition: Beyond Good and Bad Foods

It’s time to learn about the world of nutrition where no food is inherently good or bad. Explore how to transform your approach to eating by focusing on nourishment rather than labeling foods. This episode debunks common misconceptions about carbohydrates and introduces the concept of food as just food—essential supplies for your body’s needs.

Build Sustainable Dietary Habits

Discover how to create a sustainable way of eating that transcends the typical diet mentality. Learn the importance of prioritizing nourishment and how to approach dietary changes with a long-term perspective. You will also learn the harmful effects of crash dieting and the benefits of a balanced, nourishing diet.

Become Your Own Nutrition Expert

Learn how to become an expert on your own body’s nutritional needs. This episode will discuss the importance of personalized nutrition and dispels one-size-fits-all diet myths, offering insights into how to adapt your eating habits based on personal health goals and the underlying causes of PCOS.

Strategic Enjoyment of Food

Incorporate the strategic enjoyment—how to incorporate favorite foods into your diet without compromising your health goals. This part of the episode discusses how to enjoy foods responsibly and how occasional indulgences can fit into a healthy lifestyle without leading to setbacks.

Personalized Nutrition

When you finally understand and address the root causes of PCOS through diet. While listening to this episode you will discover the importance of identifying personal triggers and tailoring your diet to combat specific symptoms, whether they are related to weight, energy levels, or hormonal balance.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

The PCOS Root Cause Boot Camp

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:
https://nourishedtohealthy.com/133

Welcome back to the PCOS Repair Podcast! Today, we delve into a compelling research article that connects the dots between inflammation and it’s connection with insulin resistance and ovarian dysfunction in PCOS. This episode builds on our previous discussions about the multifaceted nature of PCOS, where stress, insulin and inflammation significantly impact the condition.

Inflammation and Its Impact on PCOS

Inflammation is often a buzzword in health discussions, blamed for everything from hormonal imbalances to digestive woes. In this episode, you'll gain a focused understanding of how inflammation specifically affects PCOS and worsens symptoms through increased androgen production and insulin resistance.

Key Insights from Recent PCOS Research

The discussion centers around the research article, "Inflammation in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Underpinning of Insulin Resistance and Ovarian Dysfunction," which sheds light on how inflammation acts as a major contributor to PCOS. You will learn how dietary triggers can induce oxidative stress and greater inflammatory response as well as strategies for managing PCOS effectively.

Personalizing Your Approach to PCOS Management

We’ll discuss the importance of recognizing the unique aspects of your PCOS condition. Learn to look beyond generalized symptoms and identify your specific inflammatory triggers that may differ vastly from other women. By understanding and managing underlying inflammation, you can significantly alleviate PCOS symptoms and improve overall health.

Alright, let’s dive in! Happy listening

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:
https://nourishedtohealthy.com/132

Welcome to a New Year of PCOS Health!

In this week’s episode of the PCOS Repair podcast, we’ll kick off the new year by exploring the impactful difference between setting New Year’s resolutions and creating an intentional, actionable plan for your PCOS health. Grab your pen and paper—this interactive session is designed to help you start the year with clarity and purpose.

Understanding Resolutions vs. Intentions

The episode begins by diving into the definitions and implications of ‘resolutions’ versus ‘intentions.’ A resolution often represents a firm decision to do or not do something, which can sometimes lead to disappointment if not followed through. This episode encourages a shift towards setting intentions, which allows for more flexibility and adaptability in achieving your goals, particularly in managing PCOS.

Setting Intentional Goals for PCOS

I’ll guide you through my step-by-step process to set meaningful and realistic goals for your PCOS journey. Whether it’s managing weight, improving hormonal balance, or enhancing overall health, this section helps you define what you truly desire from your efforts and how to envision the lifestyle changes needed to get there.

Actionable Steps to Achieve Your Goals

As you transition from broad intentions to specific, actionable steps that align with your personal health objectives. This episode emphasizes the importance of breaking down your goals into manageable tasks, prioritizing them, and confronting any obstacles that may arise, ensuring a structured path toward your PCOS management.

Building Sustainable Habits for PCOS Management

You’ll explore strategies to transform your actionable steps into sustainable habits. This section provides insights on integrating new routines into your daily life, making them as natural and automatic as brushing your teeth. The focus is on consistency and gradually building a lifestyle that supports your PCOS health without feeling overwhelmed.

Interactive Guidance and Personal Reflection

Throughout this episode, I encourage you to actively participate by writing down your thoughts, reflecting on your current habits, and identifying areas for improvement. This interactive approach enhances understanding and empowers you to take concrete steps toward a healthier year.

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The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:
https://nourishedtohealthy.com/131

Welcome back to the PCOS Repair podcast! In this episode,I’m excited to share a case study that highlights the complex relationship between diet, lifestyle, and PCOS symptoms. Join me to explore the journey of Lily, whose experiences with PCOS and food sensitivities offer valuable insights into managing PCOS holistically.

Food Sensitivities and PCOS

Lily was diagnosed with PCOS in her early twenties after experiencing years of irregular periods and hormonal imbalances indicated by lab tests. Despite leading a healthy lifestyle, Lily faced challenges due to her PCOS diagnosis and unrelated food sensitivities. This episode delves into how these elements intertwined in her journey toward starting a family and seeking a healthier life.

The Impact of Diet on PCOS

Throughout the episode, you'll learn about the myths and realities of how certain foods affect PCOS symptoms. Discover why blanket dietary restrictions like cutting out gluten or dairy may not be necessary for everyone and how individual responses to food can significantly influence PCOS management. The discussion emphasizes the importance of personalized dietary approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Lily's Path to Understanding Her Body

Follow Lily's experiment with eliminating and reintroducing various foods under guidance, which led to fascinating discoveries about her body's specific reactions to gluten and dairy. This process not only helped Lily manage her PCOS symptoms better but also empowered her to make informed choices about her diet. The story of Lily reinforces the concept that managing PCOS effectively requires a deep understanding of one's body and the factors that uniquely affect each individual.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at:
https://nourishedtohealthy.com/130

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