How can a Nutritional Therapist help with PCOS?

September marks PCOS Awareness Month and, as some of you know, this is a condition that is close to my heart. I was diagnosed with the condition at age 23, and now in my 50s I am still managing it. Diet and lifestyle change are key to me keeping my symptoms under control, feeling well and energised, and staying strong and healthy.

Many of us understand, at least on a conceptual level, that adopting healthier eating habits, engaging in regular physical activity, and prioritizing self-care are vital for leading a long and happy life. However, as we are all too familiar with, the demands of modern life often get in the way of these aspirations. Balancing work and family life leaves little room for focusing on our wellbeing. And of course, convenience often takes precedence as we’re all so busy!

However, what I’ve learned is that it is essential to recognize that neglecting proper nutrition, exercise, and overall wellness gradually leads to deteriorating health – particularly when accompanied by a diagnosis of PCOS. 

Understanding nutritional support for PCOS

In the past, nutritional therapy was often dismissed as "alternative medicine." However, the tide is turning, and the scientific significance of proper nutrition is now gaining the credibility it deserves. A select group of esteemed medical professionals, including Dr Tim Spector, Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, and the late Dr. Michael Mosley, are actively endorsing the integration of nutrition science into how we care for health.

I’m delighted to say that nutritional therapists are at the forefront of this movement, applying the latest advancements in nutritional and health research to tailor a diet, lifestyle, and, when appropriate, supplement plan to address individual needs. We also offer coaching to facilitate the practical implementation of these strategies and to overcome any obstacles from the past. This can be particularly helpful in PCOS, when managing the stressors that accompany the condition.

Personalised Approach

Nutritional therapy is highly personalised. Practitioners often refer to individuals as "biochemically unique," highlighting that a one-size-fits-all dietary approach just won’t work. Plus, everyone’s health experiences, lifestyles, likes and dislikes, time constraints and time are completely different. 

A Registered Nutritional Therapist, such as me, takes into account your genes, medical history, existing symptoms, preferences, and personal circumstances to craft a tailored plan that works for you and how you live your life.

Why don't more people seek nutritional support for PCOS? 

Media headlines often discuss the latest food trends, but often fail to connect the dots comprehensively, which makes it more difficult for you to know what might work for you, as well as what might actually be safe! A Registered Nutritional Therapist can help you to probe deeper to understand what is going on for you specifically, before putting together a plan that’s tailor made.

What to expect during a PCOS nutrition programme

Your initial consultation is about 75 minutes, and prior to that session, you'll complete a nutritional therapy questionnaire, and a diet and lifestyle diary to give us an idea of how you live your life.

During the session, we'll delve into your medical history, health goals, challenges, eating habits, preferences, and lifestyle factors. The process is entirely confidential and utterly non-judgmental.

Our programmes then involve a series of sessions spread over twelve weeks dependent on the level of support you need. This structure makes sure that you receive ongoing support, helping you to implement the programme gradually and tackle any hurdles that arise.

Addressing your PCOS through nutrition

While you will probably have some information about what constitutes a healthy diet, realising sustainable progress toward better health involves more than just information. Sustaining motivation often proves to be the most challenging aspect of any health plan! A supportive partner or coach plays a pivotal role in keeping you on track and providing guidance when you veer off course. This accountability and guidance, often provided through health coaching, safeguard the progress you make from going to waste.  

If you are suffering with PCOS and would like to know more about our personalised nutrition programmes, why not book in a free health review today? Just click here and pick a time that works for you. We would love to support you.