Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic endocrine disorder of hyperandrogenism present in millions of women. Featuring symptoms like absent or infrequent menstrual cycles, weight gain, acne, and hair loss, PCOS poses a quality-of-life lens for many women. Thankfully, natural supplements have today cropped up as a favorable means of tackling these symptoms and regaining order. In this blog, the best supplements for PCOS that can help eliminate the discomforts that come with it shall be delineated. These supplements range from inositol to zinc, and they comprehensively address PCOS and promote a healthier lifestyle. In this blog, we are going to discuss some of the natural yet effective PCOS supplements.
What Is PCOS?
Now that you are aware of the best PCOS supplement, let’s start by understanding what PCOS is and how it impacts the body. PCOS is commonly referred to as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. It is a hormonal disorder that occurs in the United States, with approximately 6-12 % of women of childbearing age. Who have PCOS women have higher levels of androgens – male hormones that cause a range of effects, such as ovarian cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and thinning hair. The condition is also associated with insulin resistance, which takes the situation to another level and brings other diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease, into its trail.
And yes, it is depressing that there are several uncomfortable signs of PCOS, but know that it is not a death sentence. As long as a woman incorporates the right diet, exercise, and the correct PCOS supplements, then many of these women get to lead a relatively normal life with the disease.
Top PCOS Supplements
Before we find the best PCOS supplements, we must find quality, safe supplements that suit your body. This is of the utmost importance. Researchers have studied many vitamins and herbal supplements for their role in PCOS.
1. Inositol
Myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol are two types of inositol that have recently emerged as a potent PCOS supplement. These are naturally occurring compounds in fruits, beans, and grains and have an important role in the action and metabolism of insulin. As such, for women with PCOS, inositol supplementation has been found useful in the regulation of high insulin levels, blood sugar management as well as reduction of androgen. Several studies show that the usage of inositol produces a positive effect, bringing changes in the regularity of the cycles and a decrease in acne with the course of treatment.
2. Vitamin D
Women with PCOS lack sufficient vitamin D. Thus, vitamin D is one of the identified PCOS supplements. It has been established fact that proper intake of vitamin D helps to regulate the menstrual cycle, increase the chances of conception, and help manage depression. It is best taken in combination with high-fat food products, which should be averaging in products such as avocados and nuts. Small doses of vitamin D should be taken on a daily basis, and these can greatly benefit health and lessen the danger of further difficulties.
3. B Complex Vitamins
B-group vitamins such as B12 and folic acid should be taken in order to manage insulin resistance, which is quite frequently observed in women with PCOS. Vitamin B12, for example, is vital in creating serotonin and dopamine, chemicals that are responsible for feelings of happiness and satisfaction. B6, another of the B vitamins, is useful for stabilizing mood, and research shows it can be effective in combating the depressive and anxious tendencies linked to PCOS. Taking a B complex supplement is an effective way to add the energy to tackle PCOS symptoms in a woman’s daily plan.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil supplements have been touted for their capacity as anti-inflammatory agents. Omega-3s can assist the ladies with PCOS to decrease the levels of insulin resistance and complete cholesterol levels that are very vital in controlling the situation. It is also important to note that omega-3s can be obtained naturally from foods, including nuts, seeds, and fatty fish. These have a positive impact on heart health.
5. Berberine
Isolated Berberine alkaloid, which belongs to the group of herbs, is under active consideration as a natural supplement for PCOS. It acts by increasing insulin sensitivity and amplifying insulin signaling, thus put into the same line as metformin, a drug widely used on women with PCOS. In addition to all these, berberine helps to overcome hunger and lose weight as it suppresses the enzymes involved in fat storage. However, research has it that berberine can help in boosting of ovulation rates and chances of conception in women with PCOS.
6. Magnesium
In recent studies, it has been demonstrated that magnesium is also a significant player in glucose metabolism, and the majority of the study participants with PCOS are known to suffer from an intracellular magnesium deficiency. This deficiency can lead to insulin resistance and heart diseases hence making magnesium supplementation very important to manage PCOS. Spinach, almonds, and pumpkin seeds also contribute to the magnesium diet food also. However, which form of magnesium is better to take, magnesium citrate or magnesium glycinate must be chosen to enhance the effect.
7. Zinc
Zinc is required for cell division, secretion of hormones, and modulation of the immune system, all of which are useful in controlling PCOS. PCOS causes women to present lower levels of zinc, which is important in hormonal regulation, insulin sensitivity, and control of oxidative stress. Although, Zinc supplementation can assist in replenishing these levels and probably aid the hormonal balance of women with PCOS and cut hazards of the ailment.
8. Curcumin
Curcumin, which is present in turmeric, has been considered to help in controlling PCOS. It belongs to the class of agents that influence the androgen receptor signal and decrease the production of androgens as testosterone. Curcumin has been shown to help with ovulation and can improve blood sugar, which makes it an effective PCOS supplement. Consuming turmeric in larger dishes or popping curcumin supplements that possess anti-inflammatory properties are good to consider.
Better Control of PCOS with Hormone Therapy
There are a lot of issues that women with PCOS face, and therefore, it is not easy to manage, but they can manage it with the right kind of supplements for PCOS and with a change of lifestyle. Natural therapies such as inositol, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium can also be introduced in order to normalize hormones, improve the level of insulin sensitivity, and enhance the quality of life. It is important to seek medical advice before starting on any particular supplement to meet your needs.
At Direct Preventive Care we work on the principle that the body can be rebalanced through preventive care. Medical doctors at our facility are knowledgeable about PCOS causes, and we give patients professional hormone therapy according to their situation. Start your journey towards a better you with our patient-centered treatment model.