PCOS and Endometriosis

The gut is responsible for much more than digestion and nutrient absorption. In fact, the health of your gut also has a major influence on hormone balance and inflammation. For example, your gut bacteria significantly impacts estrogen levels. Imbalances in gut bacteria, known as dysbiosis, impairs estrogen metabolism and results in either too much or too little active estrogen. Having a healthy gut to balance estrogen levels is crucial in both PCOS and endometriosis.

Some people may require a comprehensive plan to treat complex gut imbalances. However, you can promote overall gut health by eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fiber and reducing gut disruptors. 

Our Gut Health Bundle includes digestive enzymes, our favorite probiotic, and our gut health rebalance powder to heal the intestinal lining and reduce inflammation. 

Poor sleep and high stress levels can worsen hormonal imbalances and inflammation in PCOS and endometriosis. These lifestyle factors significantly impact your overall health and shouldn’t be ignored! 

 

Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Reduce sleep disruptors, like alcohol, close to bedtime and avoid drinking caffeine after 1pm. If you struggle falling or staying asleep, consider a trial of magnesium before bedtime. Furthermore, while it is not realistic to eliminate all stress in your life, engage in stress-reducing activities to mitigate the effects it has on your body. Set aside at least 10 minutes of your day for a stress-reducing activity like yoga, meditation, reading, deep breathing, or walking.

Inflammation is a primary root cause of both PCOS and endometriosis. Following an anti-inflammatory diet and treating gut issues are foundational to treating inflammation throughout the body. However, we may use targeted supplements to support this intervention as well. Omega-3, N-acetyl cysteine, and turmeric are a few examples of supplements we may recommend for anti-inflammatory benefits in women with these conditions.

PCOS and endometriosis are two chronic conditions that affect 10 to 20 percent of women. Both of these conditions can cause irregular periods, infertility, and hormone imbalances. While it is not common, it is possible to have both PCOS and endometriosis. By reducing inflammation and treating hormonal imbalances with diet, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation, you can treat the root causes of these conditions.

Looking for 1:1 guidance?  Join our functional medicine membership program.  Our doctors and dietitians are experienced at treating both PCOS and Endometriosis.