What does Andrew say about PCOS?

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has discussed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in several episodes of the . Here are some key insights:

  1. Incidence and Diagnosis: PCOS is often underdiagnosed, with prevalence estimates ranging from 10% to 20% of women. Symptoms such as androgen excess, insulin resistance, and oligomenorrhea are common indicators, and many women discover their condition in their 30s due to fertility issues 1.

  2. Causes and Risk Factors: Insulin resistance is a significant factor. Elevated insulin levels can stimulate the ovaries to overproduce testosterone, leading to PCOS symptoms. This condition is also linked with obesity and metabolic issues 2.

  3. Symptoms and Criteria: Symptoms include androgenic acne, hair growth in unusual places (hirsutism), male-pattern baldness, and oligo-ovulation (irregular menstrual cycles). Though often associated with cystic ovaries, a diagnosis doesn't require the presence of ovarian cysts 3.

    Understanding PCOS

    PCOS is often underdiagnosed, with prevalence rates ranging from 10% to 20%. Many women discover they have the condition in their 30s, typically presenting symptoms like hormonal acne, excessive hair growth, and irregular menstrual cycles. Key indicators include insulin resistance and androgen dominance, which can significantly impact fertility.
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    Dr. Kyle Gillett: How to Optimize Your Hormones for Health & Vitality | Huberman Lab Podcast #67
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  4. Impact on Health: Beyond reproductive issues, PCOS is a risk factor for cardiometabolic diseases as women age. Elevated androgens and insulin resistance contribute significantly to long-term health risks 4 2.

  5. Treatments: Common treatments include birth control to regulate ovulation and manage androgen levels. For obese patients, weight loss can restore ovulation. New treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists show promise in reducing PCOS symptoms and improving fertility 5.

Understanding PCOS's full spectrum and considering it a lifelong condition rather than just a reproductive issue can help tailor more effective treatments and support 4.

RELATED QUESTIONS

Can reducing insulin resistance help with pcos?

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Yes, reducing insulin resistance can help with PCOS. Here are some insights from the :

  1. Improving Insulin Sensitivity: discussed with that myoinositol can significantly help with PCOS. Myoinositol helps the body be more sensitive to insulin, reducing insulin resistance. Metformin is another treatment known to decrease testosterone levels by improving insulin sensitivity in the ovaries 1.

  2. Metabolic Improvements: Another discussion highlighted by and Dr. Kyle Gillett noted that optimizing body composition, reducing body fat, and treating metabolic syndrome can help manage or prevent PCOS. Metformin and myoinositol were mentioned as tools for insulin sensitization, thus reducing the symptoms of PCOS 2.

  3. Hormonal Balances: Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia (high insulin levels) can trigger the ovaries to overproduce testosterone, leading to PCOS. Lowering insulin levels can help reduce this effect, addressing the hormonal imbalances central to PCOS symptoms 3.

    PCOS Supplements

    Natalie discusses the benefits of myoinostatol in PCOS, including its role in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Andrew warns men about the potential side effects of metformin on testosterone levels. They also touch on other supplements that can support fertility and overall health in women.
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    Dr. Natalie Crawford: Female Hormone Health, Fertility & Vitality
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Overall, strategies to reduce insulin resistance, like using insulin sensitizers (e.g., metformin, myoinositol) and adopting lifestyle changes (e.g., improving diet and exercise), can be beneficial in managing PCOS.

RELATED QUESTIONS