Poor gut health is one of the underlying causes of PCOS. Gut health research has exploded in the last decade or so. The more I learn, the more I realize how metabolic health is intricately linked to gut health. Optimal health cannot be achieved without addressing gut issues, which is why improving gut health is an important part of the work I do with my clients.
While PCOS is a hormonal issue, there is no consensus on what causes it. Underneath all the symptoms that get categorized as PCOS, there is a complex picture where hormones intersect with circadian rhythms, blood sugar regulation, mineral deficiencies, gut health and more!
What am I referring to when I say gut health? Our intestines contain farms of bacteria. The human body has created a mutually beneficial relationship with these bugs overtime. Many of the by-products that are produced by bacteria are used directly by our body. These include vitamin K, B vitamins, and short-chain fatty acids (like acetic acid, butyric acid, etc).
Unfortunately, many environmental factors in the modern world (yet again!) create an imbalance in the good and bad bacteria in our gut (referred to as gut dysbiosis) and cause intestinal inflammation. Which then cause widespread inflammation in our body. Gut dysbiosis has not only been linked to conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or SIBO, but also obesity, depression, anxiety, and diabetes.
Research is beginning to show that gut health may also play a significant role in the development of PCOS and is therefore, an important piece of the puzzle when trying to reverse it.
“When compared with women with obesity or PCOS alone, obese women with PCOS possessed a more serious dysbiosis of gut microbiota. The dysbiosis of gut microbiota, as increasing LPS-producing bacteria and decreasing protective bacteria, may correlate with the development of metabolic disorder in PCOS.” PMC5328957
Are you interested in working with a nutritionist who can help you address underlying gut health issues associated with PCOS? Let’s talk. Schedule a free information call here: Schedule Call
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