Feb 12, 2008

Top Ten Tips for Living with PCOS

Living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can sometimes be a daunting task. Many of the side effects caused by the disease, such as adult acne, infertility, weight gain and excessive facial or body hair can be difficult to control. In addition, the emotions associated with the submission of self to the public response to these challenges and to a general lack of self-esteem - can, at times, seem impossible to overcome.

But there is hope! Research has shown that women with PCOS who adopt positive lifestyle can overcome the symptoms caused by this disease. Here are ten tips to live with, and managing the symptoms caused by PCOS. You might want to send this list on your refrigerator or mirror bathroom as a gentle reminder to yourself.

1. Adopt healthy eating habits. All women with PCOS can benefit from adopting healthy eating habits. Eating a diet low in carbohydrates and refined sugar, you can help reverse the imbalances of glucose and insulin in the body that cause symptoms of PCOS flair.

2. Fit exercise into your daily routine. Although everybody should find time to exercise, it is especially important for women with PCOS capable of some form of exercise into their daily routine. Whether it's a 20-minute walk, playing outside with your kids, or go to a course of Pilates, the exercise has proven to stimulate metabolism and burn calories to control insulin levels and, in turn, leads to weight loss. Exercise can also help prevent diabetes, a risk to the health of women in PCOS.

3. Avoid stimulants. After a cup of coffee (or two or three ...) has become a part of our culture that may seem impossible relinquish. However, coffee and other stimulants to cause an increase in the production of insulin, which have proven to have a negative impact on women with PCOS. If you are serious about controlling your insulin levels, you really need to consider giving up the cup of Joe.

4. Get regular physical examinations. Women with PCOS have a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and some forms of cancer. They are also more likely to suffer from hypertension and / or high cholesterol. Meeting regularly with your doctor to monitor and address these issues will help you stay healthy until symptoms under control by adopting healthy eating habits and exercise.

5. Relax. Women with PCOS are more prone to depression and mood swings. They often find themselves emotionally frustrated when their own bodies seem deliberately working against them. Whether weight problems or difficulties in designing, PCOS can take a toll on your emotional well-being, take a bubble bath, watch an old movie, or do something else that you like doing. It can make the biggest difference in how you feel on the inside.

6. Look support networks. Although it may feel like it, you are definitely not alone in your struggle with PCOS. There are thousands of women over there who are experiencing the same symptoms and the emotions that you are. Do not be shy. It is women who will lift you up when you are sad. If you can not find a group, then create one and promote it online, in local newspapers, through leaflets and schools, colleges and health clubs.

7. Ask questions. Suffering from PCOS, there is no one size fits all solution to combat the disease. The symptoms vary with each person and you really need to ask questions of your doctor and do research on your own to find a plan that will work best for you.

8. Get help if you are depressed. PCOS can make you feel melancholy, especially given the multitude of physical and emotional problems that may develop because of this disease. If you feel a little more than sad and can not shake the feeling of disillusionment associated with the condition, get help. The fact is that you can live a positive life, even when dealing with PCOS. Getting help is the first step towards achieving this goal.

9. Consult a specialist. As PCOS receives more attention by doctors, the media and other people, there are an increasing number of treatment options available. For example, Insulite Laboratories of Boulder, CO has created a five-step approach that integrates nutraceuticals, nutrition, exercise, food dependency and awareness of support networks to help reverse the symptoms caused by PCOS. If you are unable to find a doctor who will treat PCOS, you should check the state-by-state list of health professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to PCOS located on the site www.pocsupport.org PCOSA.

10. Maintain a positive attitude. Keeping a positive attitude is essential for the achievement of positive results in any aspect of life. Be positive and create opportunities for you that can help you achieve your dreams. Just because you have PCOS does not mean that you can not live your best life!