5 Natural Ways to Help Treat PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)

How did you find out you had PCOS or PCOS symptoms? It's common for most women to only discover the diagnosis of PCOS once they have difficulty becoming pregnant. It's true, some PCOS symptoms often go unnoticed or ignored. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that women with PCOS usually experience two or more of the following symptoms:

• Periods that are irregular, heavy, or don't occur at all
• Excessive body or facial hair is often a sign of high androgen levels
• Two or more cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on the ovaries

PCOS symptoms include, but are not limited to the following:

• Infertility
• Oily skin and acne
• Irregular bleeding
• Weight gain or obesity
• Pelvic pain
• Skin thickened, dark, and velvety (acanthosis nigricans)
• The risk of PCOS may also be higher in women whose mothers or sisters have PCOS.

Is it effective to treat PCOS by using natural remedies?

Yes, PCOS can be effectively treated with natural remedies. A woman with the polycystic ovarian syndrome can manage her symptoms, but she cannot cure it. 

The natural approach may be preferred by some people. It has been shown, however, that natural remedies can also relieve the symptoms of PCOS, which can include irregular or nonexistent periods, thin hair, acne, ovarian cysts, abnormal hair growth, obesity, and recurrent miscarriages.

Natural ways to improve symptoms of PCOS

PCOS affects so many women that they feel hopeless, don't worry let's discuss how to treat PCOS. There are, however, natural ways to soothe unpleasant symptoms and regulate hormones, according to experts who take a holistic approach to treatment. You should consult a physician before embarking on a treatment plan since treating the condition requires a comprehensive approach that may include medication and lifestyle changes.

1. Using herbs for PCOS

Various herbs and spices provide both health benefits and are non-toxic. As a result, they are better equipped to deal with PCOS. The following are a few of them.

Cinnamon

Sweet and savory dishes use cinnamon. The effect of it is to reduce blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is considered anti-diabetic. Anti-inflammatory properties are also associated with it. Cinnamon has both of these attributes, making it a useful component of a PCOS diet. Additionally, cinnamon reduces insulin resistance and helps with fertility issues. Furthermore, it reduces the levels of testosterone and stimulates the levels of progesterone, thus balancing the hormonal activity in order to treat PCOS. The overall effect of cinnamon is to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Mix cinnamon with warm water to consume it. It is also suitable for tea, juices, and soups. There are many Indian dishes that use cinnamon, especially desserts.

Basil

Medicinal properties and antioxidants of basil make it an excellent herb. This herb is anti-inflammatory. Known as Tulsi, basil acts as an anti-androgenic, controlling male hormone. It is helpful in managing PCOS. Hair growth on the face and body is controlled by it. Blood sugar levels are also regulated by basil. By reducing cholesterol levels and preventing weight gain, it reduces the risk of PCOS.

Basil leaves can be consumed as such. It can be infused with tea, for example. Additionally, you can infuse drinking water with basil leaves.

Turmeric

The healing properties of turmeric are well known. As well as boosting immunity, it promotes a healthy lifestyle. The menstrual cycle is also regularized by turmeric. It can also help you lose weight. Turmeric's curcumin also has anti-inflammatory properties that control cholesterol and sugar levels. PCOS patients benefit from its ability to improve insulin resistance.

Warm water can be used to consume turmeric. It can also be mixed with milk. It is common to find turmeric in almost every Indian dish.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a helpful treatment for PCOS symptoms. It is also called Indian ginseng. By lowering cortisol levels and lowering psychological and physiological stress indicators, this herb assists in stress management. Weight loss occurs as a result of improved eating habits. You can also use Ashwagandha to regulate blood sugar levels and manage PCOS-related hair loss. 

Ashwagandha powder is included in a full dose alongside 6 other vitamins and minerals in Ovary Good by S’moo, which can be added easily to smoothies, juices and protein shakes.

Fenugreek

Blood sugar levels are reduced by using fenugreek in diabetes management. A study found that fenugreek also improves insulin resistance and manages insulin levels. Additionally, fenugreek water aids in weight loss.

Consuming fenugreek raw or soaking it overnight and drinking the water can benefit our health.

Shatavari

PCOS can be decreased with Shatavari. Ovulation and follicular development are affected by it. Furthermore, it plays an important role in maintaining a regular menstrual cycle. Fertility-enhancing nutrients such as calcium and zinc are contained in this fruit.

In powder form, Shatavari can be mixed with tea, juice, and soup.

Ginger

Many microbial diseases can be treated with ginger. Antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant properties make it a valuable food item. Moreover, it contains anti-inflammatory components like gingerol and zingerone, which reduce inflammation caused by PCOS and other diseases. Research suggests that ginger can also relieve period pain and cramps.

There are many dishes that use ginger. The juice of ginger can be extracted by grating it. Water, tea, and other beverages can be mixed with this juice. 

2. Controlling your body weight 

Often the first treatment option suggested to women with PCOS is Weight loss. That is because Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can be significantly improved by losing even five to ten percent of weight. Making it very important for women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), if their weight exceeds the prescribed limit, to control her weight and exercise regularly.

Though losing weight is usually the first step in managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) it isn't always easy. Menstrual irregularities and metabolic parameters can be improved by losing weight though the majority of women with PCOS find it difficult to lose weight. You can help yourself by following these steps:

Steps to lose weight:

Lessen your carb intake: – Your insulin levels can be managed by reducing your carb intake.

Practice mindful eating: –The practice of mindful eating helps people become aware of their core eating cues as well as helps them lose weight. Women with PCOS, who are likely to suffer from eating disorders, may benefit from it.

Consume excessive fiber: – Fiber-rich diets can help women with PCOS lose weight, reduce insulin resistance, and reduce extra body fat.

Eat enough protein: – Weight loss can be aided by consuming more protein. In particular, high-protein foods like eggs, nuts, and seafood can be beneficial to women with PCOS.

Regular exercise is the best approach for weight loss: – Weight-training and cardio exercises can both improve insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS. PCOS women who exercise regularly and eat healthily can easily lose two kilos a month if they follow a healthy diet and exercise routine. By maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly, she can lose 7-8 kilos within three to four months. The recovery from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) symptoms depends on this.

3. Taking supplements

For women with PCOS, several supplements and PCOS vitamins have been shown to improve female fertility, reduce hormonal imbalances, and promote ovulation.

• Inositol
• N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC)
• Carnitine Supplements for PCOS
• Fish Oil
• Probiotics
• Zinc 
• Vitamin D Supplements for PCOS
• Magnesium
• B Vitamin Supplements for PCOS
• Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q10)

Ovary Good by S’moo is our best selling hormone balance supplement that includes 7 vitamins, minerals and herbs per serving including Inositol, NAC, Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Zinc, Chromium Picolinate and Ashwagandha.

4. Changing your diet

People with PCOS find that by changing their diet and lifestyle, they can alleviate symptoms and reduce health risks.

Foods to add

• Broccoli is a high-fiber vegetable
• Protein from lean sources, such as fish
• Tomatoes and turmeric are anti-inflammatory foods
• Insulin resistance can be combated by eating foods high in fiber, which slow down digestion and reduce blood sugar levels. PCOS sufferers may benefit from this.

The following foods are high in fiber:

• Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are all members of the cruciferous family
• Almonds
• Berries
• Arugula, and red leaf lettuce are among the greens
• Red and green peppers
• Lentils and beans
• Winter squash
• Pumpkin
• Sweet potatoes
• A lean protein source such as tofu, chicken, or fish does not provide fiber but is very filling and nutritious for those with PCOS.

It may also be beneficial to consume foods that reduce inflammation. Foods such as these include:

• Tomatoes
• Kale
• Olive Oil
• Spinach
• Almonds and Walnuts
• Strawberries and blueberries are fruits
• Salmon and sardines are omega-3-rich fish

FOODS TO LIMIT

• Bread and muffins high in refined carbohydrates
• Drinks and snacks that contain sugar
• Red meat and processed foods are inflammatory 

The consumption of refined carbohydrates causes inflammation and exacerbates insulin resistance, so they should be avoided or severely limited. Foods that are highly processed include:

• White bread
• Sugary desserts
• Muffins
• Breakfast pastries
• Anything made with white flour
• Semolina, durum wheat flour, or spelled flour is commonly used in pasta noodles, often resulting in high carbohydrates and low fiber. As an alternative to flour, pasta can be made with bean or lentil flour.

Diets for PCOS should limit sugar, which contains carbs. Read food labels carefully to identify sugar by its various names, such as: 

• Sucrose
• Dextrose
• High fructose corn syrup

5. Physical activities

Exercises such as jogging, cycling, swimming, and walking can be beneficial for patients suffering from PCOS. You can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes by exercising, which increases your body's sensitivity to insulin. As well as weight loss and depression symptoms, doing 30 minutes of exercise a day can also improve menstrual cycles and ovulation.

Conclusion

PCOS is a complex condition. Conventional and alternative treatments are available to manage symptoms and complications, but there is no cure for the disease. Healthy diet and well balanced lifestyle is the best PCOS natural treatment. Though you aren't alone! There are tons of women who have learned about their PCOS condition and are working through it to make a healthier life. Connect with some of those women at SmooBabes.com, a free community of women working through PCOS and other hormone imbalances. You've got this! 

Medical disclaimer:

*The content in this article is provided for informational purposes only. This is not intended to prevent, diagnose, treat, or cure any health conditions. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or consultation. Talk to your doctor before making changes to your healthcare regimen.