Hellos sis!
Let’s talk about how probiotics might help you if you have PCOS.
As I have continued my exploration of the benefits of nutrition for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, I have become increasingly aware of the importance of our gut health. Our intestinal flora has a far and wide-reaching impact on our health and I have wondered about its impact on our PCOS.
So, I am asking the question, “PCOS and probiotics?
Should probiotics be part of my PCOS Diet?
Why You Should Care for your Gut
The microflora in our guts has a huge role to play in so many aspects of our health. Here are some of the things that they do for us:
· Produce B vitamins, including Biotin and Folic acid (I have heard of many women taking Biotin to help alleviate hair loss)
· Increase absorption of minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese
· Break down and rebuild hormones
· Promote healthy weight and metabolism
· Help control inflammation
Strategies for PCOS and gut health
The good news is that what is good for PCOS is good for the gut – they go hand in hand. From blood sugar balance to regular bowel movements – supporting your gut health will also help your hormone health.
Probiotic Supplements: Probiotic supplements can be so helpful when supporting gut health – but it is essential to remember that not all supplements are created equal (link to probiotics blog). The way they are prepared, stored, shipped all matter. Further – not all strains will be helpful. When a practitioner recommends a specific probiotic, it is likely because they know that strain, or type of bacteria, has been shown in practice to support that need. For example, the bacteria that help mood or anxiety may not be the same strain that has been shown to support irritable bowel disease. Working closely with a practitioner who can recommend the right supplement is critical – otherwise you may just be wasting your money.
General Health Benefits
We all know too well the carb cravings that go hand-in-hand with PCOS. And we’ve all given into them at some time. Well, highly processed and refined carbs stimulate the growth of harmful bacteria in our digestive tracts. These harmful bacteria will crowd out the good organisms and stop them from doing their work.
So, taking probiotics or eating food rich in probiotics will help to restore balance and improve our overall health.
Summing it Up
I am by no means saying that probiotics are going to cure your PCOS or even make a huge difference on their own. But I do think that incorporating more probiotics into your PCOS diet could make a difference to your overall symptoms, as well as improve your mood and possibly even your fertility.
If you have dabbled in the world of fermented foods or probiotics, please get in touch and let me know!
I’m always keen to hear about what you are doing to manage your PCOS.
Love, Coach Barbie
