The Pyramid of PCOS: Breaking Down the Root Causes for Better Health

Understanding PCOS Root Causes: A Comprehensive Overview In this episode, we're tackling the topic of understanding the root causes of PCOS. I've received numerous questions about how to identify the specific root causes of PCOS, especially when the symptoms and indicators can often seem contradictory or confusing. Today, we're setting the stage for a series of discussions of each root cause in detail, providing clarity and actionable insights. Decoding the Complexity of PCOS PCOS is a complex syndrome that manifests differently in everyone, which is why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. In today’s conversation, we'll explore the pyramid model of PCOS symptoms and root causes. Imagine a pyramid where the tip represents the visible symptoms of PCOS, like irregular periods and metabolic challenges. As we move down the pyramid, we uncover the layers of underlying issues drilling down to the foundational cause. Cortisol and Stress: Triggers of PCOS A key player at the base of our pyramid is cortisol, the stress hormone. Stress isn't just about feeling overwhelmed; it's about how your body perceives and reacts to various stressors. Excessive cortisol can lead to an increase in androgens, escalating PCOS symptoms. The Insulin Connection: More Than Just Sugar Moving up the pyramid, insulin resistance plays a significant role in PCOS. It's not just about sugar intake; it's about how insulin, when imbalanced, prompts the ovaries to produce excess androgens. We'll unpack the nuances of insulin management and its critical role in PCOS, emphasizing that insulin issues can arise even without overt diabetes symptoms. Inflammation: The Silent Aggravator Inflammation is another critical layer. Often overlooked, chronic inflammation can be fueled by stress, poor sleep, and dietary choices. It's a vicious cycle where inflammation leads to more insulin resistance and vice versa, exacerbating PCOS symptoms. Understanding and reducing inflammation can be a game-changer in managing PCOS. Navigating Complex PCOS Scenarios For many, the confusion doesn't stem from a single cause but a combination of factors. We'll explore scenarios where multiple root causes interact, such as post-birth control, where hormones and nutrition are thrown off balance, leading to a chaotic state. Identifying your primary root cause is akin to balancing a three-legged stool, ensuring no one cause is disproportionately affecting your health. Engage with Us: Your PCOS Journey Matters This episode is just the beginning of our journey into the root causes of PCOS. Stay tuned for the upcoming episodes, where we'll dive deeper into each cause, offering detailed insights and practical advice. PCOS Awareness Month is a great time to deepen our understanding and support each other in navigating this condition. If you have specific questions or need personalized advice, don't hesitate to reach out on Instagram @NourishedtoHealthy I hope today's discussion enlightens and empowers you. Subscribe to stay updated, and join us as we unravel the complexities of PCOS together. Until next time, take care of yourselves and keep seeking the answers that work for your unique body and lifestyle. You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here The full list of Resources & References Mentioned can be found on the Episode webpage at: https://nourishedtohealthy.com/116 Let’s continue the conversation on Instagram! What did you find helpful in this episode and what follow-up questions do you have?