How to Treat PCOS By Healing Your Gut Microbiome

The PCOS + Gut Connection

PCOS stands for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, which is one of the most common causes of infertility today. Growing research now shows that dysbiosis and leaky gut play a significant role in the underlying factors that drive PCOS by influencing the key features: insulin resistance, high androgen levels, and chronic inflammation. Therefore, gut imbalance may not just be a significant contributing factor, but the underlying root cause.

Here are some simple ways to bring your gut microbiome back into balance, and simultaneously, help alleviate symptoms of PCOS:

1. Mediterranean-Style Diet: Aim for whole foods – veggies, fruit, whole grains, legumes, fatty fish, nuts and seeds. This way of eating is naturally anti-inflammatory, improves insulin resistance, and supports gut health.

2. Eat Higher Amounts of Protein and Healthy Fats Than Carbs: This helps to improve insulin sensitivity, decrease testosterone, and reduce symptoms.

3. Increase Fiber Intake: Aim to get 35 grams of fiber daily by getting 8-10 servings of fruits & veggies and consider adding 2 tbsp of flax seeds daily. Fiber helps feed the good bacteria in our gut, improving insulin resistance, and eliminating excess hormones.

4. Probiotics: Probiotics have been shown to improve insulin resistance and help with weight loss. They also help to increase good bacteria in your gut. Try a high-quality probiotic and eat fermented foods.

5. Increase Exercise: Exercise has positive benefits on insulin resistance, as well as promoting healthy bacteria growth in the gut microbiome. HIIT specifically has been shown to have positive effects for those with PCOS.

6. Consider Taking Berberine: Berberine is an extract of goldenseal used to treat elevated blood sugar, insulin resistance, and is beneficial to the gut microbiome.