Ladies, have you heard of PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)?
PCOS affects as many as 5-10% of women of child bearing age and about 40% of women who are insulin resistant or have diabetes. If you have PCOS and don’t know it and aren’t treating it, you are at an increased risk for developing Type 2 diabetes, increased cholesterol levels, increased high blood pressure and increased risk for developing heart disease. PCOS occurs due to insulin resistance and leads to elevated testosterone levels.
(On a side note: insulin resistance is when your body loses it’s ability to control blood sugar levels).
Symptoms of PCOS include weight gain, resistance to weight loss, obesity, gum issues, hirsutism (hair growth where you don’t want it), infertility, irregular periods, skin/hair issues, pelvic pain, polycystic ovaries, depression, anxiety, and many more.
Unfortunately PCOS is a lifelong condition but can be well-managed by addressing diet, lifestyle and emotions.
