high insulin & pcos symptoms
How high insulin affects PCOS
High insulin (hyperinsulinemia) is a huge driver of pcos but how exactly does it work?
This chart shows a simplified view of the ways insulin changes the expression of hormones and creates the conditions that express pcos.
Interestingly, you can have pcos and still have regular periods. You can have cysts and still have regular periods. There is a range of expression in pcos and likely other genetic and environmental variables that make you unique.
Remember, anytime something is a syndrome is because we don't fully understand it yet!
I think folks are often under the impression that it's the hormones that are causing pcos, that somehow we are just born with excess testosterone that throws everything off. It's true that the testosterone causes issues, but looking deeper we see that testosterone isn't really the enemy, just another symptom of underlying dysfunction.
The cool thing about this is it means you aren't inherently dysfunctional. It gives us some hope that if we can change how we express some root issues, we could reverse our symptoms. I've seen it enough times to know it's possible.
One of the main reasons I created PCOS Foundations was to get this information out into the world and help as many as possible- to show you and teach you practical ways to help with this that go more in depth than im able to do here! You can find all the info in my bio link.
#pcosdiet #pcosnutrition #pcoslife #pcoslifestyle #insulinresistance
High insulin levels in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperinsulinemia, play a critical role in the development and expression of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). When insulin is excessively produced with each meal and remains elevated, it signals the ovaries to generate more testosterone. This overproduction of testosterone disrupts ovarian function by preventing normal follicle growth, which is essential for ovulation. As a result, luteinizing hormone (LH) remains chronically elevated, further inhibiting the ovulation process. No ovulation means no progesterone production, which is necessary for the uterine lining to shed properly, leading to the characteristic symptoms of PCOS such as irregular or absent menstrual periods. Interestingly, PCOS is highly variable; some individuals may experience cysts on their ovaries or hormonal imbalances yet still maintain regular menstrual cycles. This variation underscores the complexity of PCOS and suggests that genetic and environmental factors influence the syndrome's manifestation. Understanding that testosterone excess is a symptom rather than the root cause of PCOS opens avenues for hope and treatment. Since high insulin drives these hormonal imbalances, addressing insulin resistance through lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, and medical interventions can effectively reduce symptoms and potentially reverse PCOS features. The existence of support platforms like PCOS Foundations aids in disseminating in-depth information and practical strategies for managing this condition. From a clinical perspective, managing insulin resistance not only improves PCOS symptoms but also reduces the risk of associated metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Dietary adjustments focusing on low glycemic index foods, regular physical activity, and, in some cases, medications like metformin can improve insulin sensitivity. Additionally, monitoring insulin and hormone levels through periodic testing helps tailor individualized treatment plans. To summarize, high insulin affects PCOS by promoting excess androgen production, disrupting ovulation, and altering hormonal cycles. Recognizing insulin’s central role enables a shift from symptom management to addressing underlying causes, offering improved outcomes and quality of life for those with PCOS.
