PCOS, or polycystic ovarian syndrome, is a common condition affecting 8 to 10 percent of all reproductive age women. So, the chances of having PCOS, or knowing someone who does, is pretty high. And because PCOS is so common, it’s easy to think it’s normal. But PCOS is not normal. And there are two reasons why so many women struggle with this condition: not enough exercise and a poor diet. But here’s how you can fix that.
So, what causes PCOS? The simple answer: hormonal imbalance. But what sort of hormonal imbalance are we talking about?
When testosterone and DHEA hormone levels are too high, and estrogen levels are too low, a woman can develop PCOS.
Along with imbalanced hormones, insulin resistance is linked to PCOS, too. So, how can we address insulin levels and hormone imbalance to heal this condition?
According to Jillian Michaels, you have to improve your diet and start exercising more. Here’s why.
A poor diet can mess up your body’s insulin levels. On top of that, diets full of processed foods treated with pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals can interfere with hormonal balance and lead to PCOS.
Improving your diet and making time for exercise can help you control insulin levels, rebalance hormones and naturally deal with PCOS.
When it comes to diet, Michaels recommends “a healthy blend of macro-nutrients” like “healthy fats, clean protein and complex carbs.”
As far as exercise goes, aim for four to six sessions each week, for 30 minutes each. Michaels says HIIT intervals and resistance training can help accelerate your body’s insulin sensitivity.
