Polycystic ovaries: the best natural remedies

He polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) It is the consequence of certain hormonal imbalances that usually affect young women. In addition to symptoms such as menstrual imbalances or hair loss, it is associated with infertility problems. Knowing what it is and what its main causes are can help to better define the most appropriate treatment for each woman.

What is polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): symptoms and possible causes

Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by a hormonal imbalance with a predominance of androgen level. This causes the follicles to not develop correctly and become encapsulated. Thus, the characteristic cysts of this disorder are formed.

The formation of cysts in the ovaries can cause ovulation failure, since the ovules do not reach the degree of maturity necessary to be released. This translates into one of the most common symptoms of polycystic ovaries: irregular bleeding.

He excess hormone testosterone in blood is the cause of other common symptoms:

Appearance of body hairHair lossSeborrheic acneHirsutism

We can establish two main causes of polycystic ovary syndrome. One of them is the insulin resistance. The other a hypothalamic disorder.

1. Insulin resistance

Insulin resistance causes hyperglycemia increases levels of luteinizing hormone (LH). High levels of LH affect, in turn, a androgen increase.

If, in addition, there is a CYP450c17A enzyme mutation, insulin resistance will occur in the ovary and the conversion of progesterone to androstenedione, a precursor hormone for testosterone, will increase. In this case, symptoms will be more severe and difficult to treat.

If this mutation does not occur, it is easier to reverse the symptoms just by improving diet and increasing physical exercise.

2. Hypothalamic disorders

The hypothalamus is a brain gland that regulates many bodily functions, including the production of gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). This hormone stimulates the pituitary gland to secrete FSH and LH.

If there is a failure in this mechanism, the release of GnRH will be altered. An increase in hormonal pulsatility usually occurs, which causes the concentration of LH to be three times greater than that of FSH. This entails a increased synthesis of androgens in the ovaries, which will prevent ovulation.

Although there may be a genetic cause, stress and emotional problems greatly influence in this type of imbalance.

Natural treatment: plants, supplements and habits

A first step in treating polycystic ovaries is curb hyperglycemia. For this, various natural supplements and medicinal plants can be useful:

The cinnamon (1-3 g/day) and the chromium picolinate (600 mcg/day) are two essential supplements when fasting blood glucose exceeds 100 mg/dL. Another effective supplement is berberine (1,500 mg/day), which, in addition to reducing insulin resistance, helps lower free androgen levels and improves the intestinal microbiota by eliminating pathogenic bacteria. Any of these remedies can be associated with the decoction of bean pods (Phaseolus vulgaris), which acts on the enzyme that regulates the absorption of starch. It is also useful to take gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre), in infusion or extract (300-600 mg per day), a plant that stimulates insulin production in the pancreas and reduces the desire to eat sugary foods.

Another strategy is to detoxify and stimulate. Help the liver process excess androgens as well as stimulate the sensitivity of the follicle to the hormone FSH are two complementary strategies that mitigate the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Take NAC (600mg/day), molybdenum (400 mcg/day) and riboflavin (100-400 mg/day) supports hepatic function androgen eliminationSupplement with 4 g daily of myoinositol for three months it increases follicular sensitivity and promotes an increase in estrogen and the development of the menstrual cycle.

A change of habits adopt healthier habits it is also important when addressing polycystic ovary syndrome. Decreasing insulin spikes in the blood, improving the sensitivity of its cellular receptors, and preventing low-grade systemic inflammation is essential to prevent the problem from developing.

The current way of life, dominated by the stressnegative emotions, sedentary lifestylefast or processed food and excess sugars, produces inflammation of adipose tissue, which alters its endocrine and metabolic function, which favors insulin resistance and increases the risk of metabolic diseases. It is important:

Eliminate sugars and dairyhighly inflammatoryBasing the diet on low glycemic index foods (vegetables, first-extraction vegetable oils, raw nuts…) combined with something with a medium glycemic index (whole grains, legumes, vegetables…)Avoid snacking outside of meals.