My PCOS Journey: Part 2
DISCLAIMER: I AM NOT A MEDICAL DOCTOR. THIS IS NOT MEDICAL ADVICE. THIS IS FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY.
The day I was diagnosed with PCOS, I found a functional medicine (“FM”) provider and dietitian who were in-network with my insurance.
My NaPro provider had recommended that I take progesterone during the luteal phase of my cycle since my levels looked a little low and was experiencing some low progesterone/high estrogen symptoms. I was open to doing that, but I wanted to talk to a functional doctor and dietitian first, since I knew that PCOS could lead to other health conditions. I knew many patients with PCOS have issues with blood sugar balance and are more at-risk for diabetes.
My experiences with my FM provider have been amazing. From the first appointment, she thoroughly answered all of my questions and accurately explained the impact of hormones. She reviewed my bloodwork and we had an hour-long conversation about what it means. Over time, we deduced that I had “adrenal-type” PCOS.
I started taking DIM-3 (for estrogen metabolization), Peony Licorice Root (to help lower testosterone), and Methyl-SP to try to balance my hormones. Once I started taking these supplements, my first cycle on them was a little longer, and I experienced more spotting, but my subsequent cycles seemed more regulated. A few months later, we did more bloodwork, and my levels were more normal.
In addition to taking supplements, I focused on reducing stress(!!!), getting enough sleep, and getting sunlight and movement.
I was also excited to meet with a dietitian. I always thought I was eating somewhat healthy, but I was always just guessing, never really knowing what my body needed. There were a few main takeaways:
MORE PROTEIN (especially at breakfast)
More Omega-3s (like in fish)
When eating carbs, pair them with a protein and/or fat
Don’t drink caffeine on an empty stomach
Incorporate hormone-supporting foods (seeds, leafy greens, etc.)
I could tell that the supplements and nutrition changes were positive changes. The biggest difference I felt was increased ENERGY. I had been experiencing fatigue regularly, and it was amazing how I felt like I could now function like a normal human day-to-day. I also no longer had to take time off of work when I was on my period.
I was surprised to learn how much more protein I needed to be healthy. A few years ago, I was really into meal prepping and healthy eating. But, I would eat a ton of vegetables, no fat (I refused to use butter), and barely any protein. No wonder I always felt weak, hungry, cold, and had gut issues.
I also love how FM focuses on gut health. That was also something I was struggling with, and we were able to address gut issues from a stool test, and we treated with probiotics (specific strains) and antimicobial/antifungal supplements. (This could be a blog for another time!)
It’s also crazy how I can notice my diet affecting me. If I eat more bread or drink more alcohol one month, I notice that I have worsening gut and PMS symptoms that cycle, for instance. It’s amazing how my body can let me know when I haven’t been supporting it the best. I still experience some symptoms or weird cycles occasionally, but I can usually pinpoint what wreaked havoc.
You may remember in my Part 1 blog post that I mentioned I experienced severe leg pain when I was on days 1 or 2 of my period. My FM provider recommended trying out chiropractic care to see if it was a structural issue. I made a chiropractic appointment, and we deduced that my scoliosis (lower back) could cause nerves to be pressed on, leading to the leg pain. When I am on my period, there is likely more inflammation contributing to that. Well, I started chiropractic care, regularly getting adjustments right before my period, and my leg pain has significantly decreased. (Also, since starting chiropractic care/massage, I have been experiencing less frequent and less severe migraines!).
Managing my PCOS is still a work in progress. Sometimes it’s hard to explain why I turn down alcohol, and it can be hard to make sure I’m eating enough protein with every meal. I am grateful to have the tools and knowledge to track my cycles, see that I’m ovulating, and also track how different lifestyle changes can affect my cycles.
Maybe a Part 3 blog will come in the future!