What PCOS is
PCOS is a condition characterized by an imbalance of reproductive hormones, which can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, cysts on the ovaries, and symptoms such as acne, hair loss, weight gain, and infertility. The exact cause of PCOS is unknown, but it is often linked to insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and genetic predisposition. While conventional medicine often addresses PCOS symptoms with medications like birth control pills or insulin-sensitizing drugs, functional medicine takes a root-cause approach to restore balance naturally.
PCOS like symptoms:
Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
Excess androgen levels, leading to acne and excessive hair growth
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
Insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes
Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
How PCOS is Treated?
The Functional Medicine Approach
Unlike conventional medicine, which primarily focuses on symptom relief, functional medicine seeks to identify and address the underlying triggers of PCOS. This holistic approach considers diet, lifestyle, gut health, and environmental factors. Here are some key functional medicine strategies for managing PCOS:
1. Balancing Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels
Since many women with PCOS experience insulin resistance, stabilizing blood sugar levels is crucial. Functional medicine practitioners recommend:
Avoiding refined sugars and processed carbohydrates
Incorporating intermittent fasting when appropriate
Using natural supplements such as inositol and berberine to improve insulin sensitivity
Some herbals such as cinnamon, and gynmema sylvestre to normalize blood sugar levels and decrease
2. Hormonal Balance Through Diet and Lifestyle
Managing hormone levels naturally involves:
Consuming anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and omega-3 fatty acids
Reducing dairy and processed foods that may contribute to hormonal imbalances
Practicing stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, and tai-chi
Optimizing liver function to support hormone detoxification
3. Gut Health and Inflammation Control
Inflammation and gut dysbiosis play a major role in PCOS. To promote a healthy gut:
Eat probiotic-rich foods like fermented vegetables and yogurt
Increase fiber intake to support gut microbiome diversity
Reduce inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, and refined sugar
Address food sensitivities that may trigger inflammation
4. Supporting Ovulation and Fertility
Many women with PCOS struggle with infertility due to irregular ovulation. Functional medicine supports fertility by:
Regulating ovulatory cycles through nutrient-dense foods and lifestyle changes
Supplementing with key nutrients such as vitamin D, magnesium, chromium, and zinc
Using herbs like maca root, ashwagandha, and vitex to support hormonal balance
Other therapies such as acupuncture recommendation, chiropractic recommendation, and castor oil treatment.
PCOS Treatment
PCOS is a multifaceted condition that requires a personalized approach. Functional medicine offers an effective way to manage PCOS by addressing root causes such as insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone imbalances. Through diet, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplementation, women with PCOS can achieve symptom relief and improved overall well-being. If you are struggling with PCOS, consulting with our functional medicine practitioner Doris Fregoso, DC may be the first step toward restoring balance and reclaiming your health. If you have any questions, schedule an appointment with Dr. Fregoso by scheduling online or calling DuPage Health and Physical Therapy at 331-401-5900.
Works Cited
"Natural Treatment for PCOS: Herbs, Supplements, and Lifestyle Changes." Healthline, Healthline Media, 27 Oct. 2021, https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/natural-treatment-pcos#herbs.
"Natural Treatments for PCOS." NatureMed, NatureMed, https://naturemed.org/natural-treatments-for-pcos/.
"PCOS Treatment & Care." Institute for Functional Medicine, Institute for Functional Medicine, https://www.ifm.org/articles/pcos-treatment-care.