PCOS...COULD NUTRIENT DEFICIENCIES BE THE CAUSE?

     Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a serious syndrome that can only effect women.  While not well understood, doctors have attributed several different symptoms to PCOS.  The three most commonly associated symptoms are infertility, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance.  

   Infertility is a rising condition in more and more women these days.  Hyperandrogenism involves the production of too many male hormones, notably testosterone.  This overproduction can cause a plethora of health issues, including acne, increased facial hair growth and PCOS.  

     Insulin resistance is often caused by Hyperinsulinemia, meaning too much insulin.  Hyperinsulinemia is worsened by insulin resistance in a vicious cycle ultimately leading to the development of type 2 diabetes.  Both insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism cause inflammation in the body.  This inflammation is believed to be the cause of PCOS.  

     The question then is what can be done to prevent PCOS and what can be done to treat PCOS in patients who have already developed the syndrome.  The answer to this question may lie in the levels of micronutrients circulating throughout a woman's body.  There are several vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients that have been show to positively affect inflammation and ultimately PCOS.  If you would like to read more about what those specific nutrients are, please click here.