Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) literally means a condition associated with many cysts in the ovary or ovaries. It is accompanied by a tendency to produce too much androgen (male hormones) and to ovulate erratically. Other symptoms of PCOS can include failure to menstruate, and/or to ovulate, excessive facial hair and obesity. Fat deposits accumulate around the upper body resulting in central obesity. It is probably one of the most common menstrual disorders associated with infertility and it is estimated that somewhere between six to twenty percent of women of childbearing age suffer form this disease.

Many women with PCOS and obesity also have problems associated with insulin, known as insulin resistance. Insulin levels are normal or even elevated, but the insulin is incapable of transporting glucose into the cell. Insulin resistance is often seen in the type of obesity with a high abdominal distribution of fat (apple-shaped). A genetic predisposition to insulin abnormalities is now considered to be the most likely explanation of PCOS. Seventy percent of women with PCOS have blood lipid and blood sugar abnormalities and some women also have thyroid gland abnormalities and hyperprolactinaemia as well. (Excess production of prolactin.)

Treatment of PCOS

A regime of herbal medicine and dietary modifications is often very successful in bringing about remission from or at least minimizing the symptoms of PCOS.

The aim in the treatment of PCOS is to reduce the masculininsing effects of excess androgens, stimulating ovulation and protecting
the endometrium.

Diet

A diet with a low glycemic index and a moderate-high protein to carbohydrate ratio will improve insulin irregularities as well as reduce weight. In addition a high fibre diet with plenty of bitter greens and legumes all help to lower blood fat levels. Increasing dietary fibre also stabilizes blood sugar levels.

Nutritional supplements

Chromium is involved in the metabolism of glucose and helps maintain blood sugar levels through proper insulin utilization. It is always prescribed, with magnesium, which reduces excessive insulin secretion. Magnesium also helps to decrease testosterone production due to its effect on follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), a hormone produced by the pituitary gland to signal the ovaries to initiate follicular growth. Dosage of chromium needs to be quite high to treat PCOS. A minimum of 200mcg of elemental chromium is required, with better results achieved at a range between 800–1500 mcg daily.

Herbs

Vitex agnus-castus (Chaste tree) has been successfully trialed in the treatment of PCOS as well as infertility. Vitex enhances progesterone levels, which lengthens the menstrual cycle and improves the environment in the uterus for the fertilized ovum. Vitex has been shown to decrease oestrogen and androgens which, when elevated are responsible for anovulatory cycles. Individuals who present with PCOS are often concerned about the hirsute (excess facial hair) of PCOS. Combining the herbs Vitex and Saw Palmetto and the mineral zinc, shows promising results in their ability to reduce the effects of excess androgens. Three other herbs are often also used which have a direct impact on elevated luteinising hormone, which occurs in association with excess androgen production. Black Cohosh, Hops and Leonurus, have a direct impact on luteinising hormone. The “female tonic” herbs, such as False Unicorn root and Peonia are generally used in ovulatory disorders and they have the added benefit of normalizing follicular development and reducing the incidence of ovarian cysts. Dong Quai, a strong phyto-oestrogenic herb is also commonly included in treatment protocol, as it helps to normalize ovulation.

ENZYME ENHANCING SALAD

Try to obtain organic vegetables wherever possible. These will naturally be richer in all nutrients as well as have increased enzyme power.

• 1/2 beetroot
• 1 carrot ) well scrubbed and grated a generous handful alfalfa spouts
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 2 cups baby rocket leaves
• 1 small radicchio, leaves separated
• 1 small celeriac root, well scrubbed and finely julienned the smaller leaves of the above mentioned beetroot, well washed
• 1/2 cup sunflower seeds, lightly dry roasted
• 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon dill seeds or 2 teaspoons fresh chopped dill
• Celtic salt to taste

• 2 tablespoons organic extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon organic balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh coriander juice half lemon or lime

Place all the vegetables in a large attractive bowl. (Yes, visual appeal of both ingredients and crockery is important. Think of the difference in taste of consuming a cup of pumpkin soup from a polystyrene foam cup, compared to out of your favourite fine china bowl. Aesthetics is important.)

Combine dressing ingredients in a glass jar and shake well, pour over salad, ensuring all leaves receive a generous cover. Sprinkle with roasted sunflower seeds and caraway seeds.

(Extract from the Healthy Gut Guide, Jill Thomas Penguin 2007)