In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, discover insights from a recent research review titled “Nutrition Strategy and Lifestyle in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.” This comprehensive article explores the latest research on dietary patterns, supplements, and lifestyle changes shown to support PCOS symptom relief. You’ll learn why tailored strategies matter more than one-size-fits-all solutions and how to apply the findings to your own health journey.

The Variety in PCOS Presentation

This episode highlights the wide variability in how PCOS presents itself. While one woman may struggle with acne and irregular cycles, another may be more affected by weight gain or fertility challenges. Yet underneath these symptoms, the same key root causes are to blame: the insulin effect, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress. These root causes create hormonal imbalances, which drive the array of symptoms that make PCOS so challenging to diagnose and manage.

Genetics and Environment in PCOS Development

While PCOS has a genetic component, lifestyle factors heavily influence how and when it shows up. Nutrtion, movement routines, stress, and exposure to ultra-processed foods—especially during childhood—can activate genetic vulnerabilities. Understanding this interplay empowers you to make choices that can calm your symptoms and possibly reverse them altogether.

Approaches for PCOS Symptom Management

The reviewed article explores a range of nutrition strategies, many of the recommendations seem contradictory, so finally this episode will help you will get clarity as to why and what to follow for your specific PCOS root causes and unique self.

This episode highlights research-backed supplements that support hormone balance, insulin regulation, ovulation, and inflammation reduction. Herbal supports were also reviewed, with several natural compounds showing promise for improving PCOS symptoms. However, the importance of individualized plans and safety especially during pregnancy is underscored.

Be sure to check the show notes for the full research article and subscribe to the PCOS Repair Podcast to stay up to date on new insights and actionable guidance for your PCOS journey.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

Nutrition Strategy and Life Style in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome—Narrative Review

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In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, we’ll explore the role genetics play in PCOS. While PCOS does have a genetic component, it doesn’t follow the straightforward hereditary patterns seen with eye color or height. Instead, it involves gene variants that affect how the body handles insulin, hormones, inflammation, and reproductive function. Not everyone with a genetic predisposition will develop symptoms, and how those genes are expressed can vary widely, even within the same family. These variables are what we will discuss in this episode.

Why PCOS Symptoms Can Look Different in Every Family

Many women wonder why they have PCOS when other family members don’t. This episode explains how previous generations may have had undiagnosed PCOS or related symptoms like irregular periods, fertility issues, or type 2 diabetes that were never linked to PCOS. You’ll hear how increased awareness and testing today are revealing more about how PCOS can run in families, even if it didn’t look like classic PCOS symptoms in the past.

How Lifestyle Plays a Role in PCOS Development

A key takeaway from this episode is how lifestyle factors influence whether PCOS symptoms appear, how severe they become, and more importantly can they be reversed? Even with a genetic predisposition, your environment, such as diet, exercise habits, stress, and overall health, can either trigger or help suppress those genes. You’ll learn how past generations may have unknowingly protected themselves with simpler diets and more physical activity.

The genetic involvement in PCOS is what is termed epigenetics, meaning they’re highly responsive to lifestyle changes. You’ll discover how you can "turn down" the expression of these genes and reverse symptoms such as irregular cycles, inflammation, cravings, fatigue, and more by addressing your root causes and making consistent, targeted changes.

Final Thoughts on Genetics, PCOS, and Taking Control

This episode offers hope and encouragement for anyone feeling stuck with their PCOS. Genetics may set the stage, but they don’t have to determine the ending. With a deeper understanding of where PCOS comes from and how to support your body, you can move forward with freedom from PCOS.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

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In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, I get to share the inspiring journey of Annie, a former client who overcame PCOS symptoms, found healing, and reached her weight loss goals, all while honoring her mental health and navigating a history of disordered eating. Annie’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when you take a compassionate, root-cause-driven approach to managing PCOS.

The Emotional Side of Health Goals

This episode highlights the emotional weight of health journeys, especially when past struggles with body image or disordered eating are involved. Annie had previously done the work with therapists to address her eating disorder, but when she gained weight due to PCOS, she wanted to be cautious in her next steps. She recognized the importance of approaching her weight loss from a place of self-awareness, healing, and mental wellness.

Rather than diving into restrictive diets or fast fixes, Annie chose a slower, steadier pace that protected her emotional well-being. With continued support from her therapist, Annie and I worked together with a root-cause PCOS plan.

Why This Story Matters for Your PCOS Journey

This episode encourages you to rethink and personalize your approach to weight loss, health goals, and PCOS healing. Annie’s story demonstrates that sustainable results come from understanding your root causes, building nourishing habits, and protecting your mental and emotional well-being along the way. Whether you’re just starting or looking to recalibrate, this story offers hope and actionable insight for a more empowered path forward.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

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In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, you’ll discover what it really means to live a PCOS-friendly lifestyle—and more importantly, how to design one that fits your unique needs. While the phrase "PCOS-friendly" gets thrown around a lot, it can often feel vague or even overwhelming. This episode offers a clear framework to help you stop guessing and start building a lifestyle that actually supports your body and your goals.

Understanding the Foundation of a PCOS-Friendly Lifestyle

A PCOS-friendly lifestyle isn’t about following a rigid formula or cutting out everything you enjoy. Instead, it’s about giving your body the nourishment and support it needs while also making sure your lifestyle works with your real life—not against it. Whether you're dealing with shift work, family obligations, food sensitivities, or just a packed schedule, your PCOS lifestyle has to be sustainable for you.

The Four Areas You Need to Know

In this episode, you’ll learn how to create that sustainable lifestyle by first understanding your PCOS root cause. This is essential for knowing which habits will actually move the needle for you. You’ll also reflect on your current health goals—whether it's energy, fertility, weight loss, or something else—as well as what your current life priorities allow for. From there, it’s all about taking aligned action to support your body in a way that feels doable, not overwhelming.

The Four Pillars of Hormone-Friendly Living

We will break down the four core pillars of a PCOS-friendly lifestyle: nutrition, movement, stress management, and emotional well-being. Each of these plays a crucial role in hormone balance and symptom relief. Rather than aiming for perfection, the goal is to build habits that are both effective and realistic for your daily life. You’ll hear why small shifts in these areas can lead to big improvements over time.

Making It Personal and Sustainable

This episode also walks through how to personalize your routine without falling into the all-or-nothing trap. You’ll learn how to start small, adjust as you go, and find the rhythms that feel natural and energizing. This isn’t about following someone else’s version of a “healthy lifestyle”—it’s about creating one that supports your health while also honoring your current capacity and real-life responsibilities.

Actionable Next Steps to Get Started

You’ll walk away from this episode with practical next steps, including taking the PCOS Root Cause Quiz, clarifying your main health goal, identifying your current priorities, and choosing a few simple habits to begin supporting your body today. This is the same framework I use with my own clients, and it’s one that can grow with you as your life evolves.

If you’re ready to stop following generic advice and start creating a lifestyle that works for your hormones, your body, and your life, this episode is a must-listen. Be sure to hit subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes—and if you haven’t yet, head to the show notes to take the PCOS Root Cause Quiz and begin building a lifestyle that truly supports your PCOS healing journey.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

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Understanding the Importance of Vitamin D for PCOS Health

In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, the spotlight is on vitamin D—a nutrient often mentioned in PCOS conversations but not always fully understood. Commonly referred to as the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D plays a critical role not only in bone health but also in glucose metabolism, inflammation reduction, and immune system support. These are all key factors in managing PCOS. This episode explores how vitamin D influences these processes and why it’s especially important for women with PCOS to monitor and maintain healthy levels.

How Your Body Absorbs and Utilizes Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, meaning it needs dietary fat to be absorbed properly. Whether you're getting it from food, supplements, or sunlight, understanding how absorption works is essential. This episode explains the best ways to ensure your body can utilize vitamin D efficiently, including the types of foods that support absorption and the limitations of relying solely on sun exposure—especially in less sunny climates or during winter months.

Common Risk Factors for Vitamin D Deficiency

Even with efforts to eat well and spend time outdoors, many people still have low vitamin D levels. This episode covers some of the reasons for that, including certain chronic health conditions, higher body fat percentages, and issues with the body’s activation process of vitamin D through the liver and kidneys. You’ll also hear why a low-fat diet or poor nutrition in general can impact your ability to maintain adequate levels.

Testing for Deficiency and When to Supplement

If you’re unsure whether you’re getting enough vitamin D, the most reliable method is a simple blood test. In this episode, you'll learn what those lab results mean, how to interpret them beyond just the "normal" range, and when to retest. It also offers practical suggestions for choosing a supplement and how to avoid overdoing it—especially since vitamin D is stored in the body and can accumulate over time.

Why Vitamin D Matters in Your PCOS Journey

While no single supplement is a fix-all for PCOS, vitamin D can play a significant supporting role. From improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation to helping regulate hormones, this nutrient may be a crucial piece of the puzzle for those with a deficiency. This episode breaks down how correcting low levels of vitamin D can be a powerful first step toward feeling better—without overcomplicating your routine or chasing a quick fix.

Be sure to check out the free PCOS Supplement Guide at supplementsforpcos.com. It includes trusted product recommendations, dosing guidelines, and additional insight to help you choose the right supplements for your unique needs.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

Supplement Guide

Vitamin D

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Understanding the Link Between PCOS and Weight

In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, the spotlight is on one of the most talked-about PCOS symptoms—weight. Whether it’s the frustration of weight gain, the confusion around how to lose it, or the struggle to maintain progress, weight is a concern for many women with PCOS. But contrary to what some might hear from doctors or online sources, weight is not the cause of PCOS—it’s a symptom. That said, excess weight can exacerbate root causes like insulin resistance and inflammation. This episode walks you through the key myths around PCOS and weight and introduces a new way of thinking about your health and your ideal weight.

The Problem with “Just Lose Weight” Advice

You’ve likely heard it before: “Just lose weight and your PCOS will improve.” But that kind of oversimplified advice ignores how complex and sensitive PCOS metabolism can be. In this episode, you’ll discover why the way you approach weight loss matters just as much as the weight loss itself. Crash diets, excessive calorie restriction, and high-stress methods can actually worsen hormonal imbalances, shut down reproductive hormone production, and make you feel worse overall. Instead, in this episode, you’ll learn how to shift toward a more balanced and personalized approach that prioritizes long-term metabolic health.

How to Approach PCOS Weight Loss the Right Way

This episode explores how small changes in how you eat, move, and rest can lead to steady fat loss while preserving muscle, boosting your metabolism instead of tanking it. You’ll also hear how increasing muscle mass improves insulin sensitivity and helps reduce inflammation, which are two major drivers of PCOS symptoms.

Weight loss that lasts doesn’t come from shame or punishment. It comes from self-awareness, self-compassion, and understanding your body’s unique needs. In this episode, you’ll hear the key to breaking the cycle of yo-yo dieting. You'll learn how approaching your PCOS journey with grace and curiosity helps you stay consistent and build a lifestyle that supports your health goals without burnout. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being kind to yourself while moving toward your best health.

Discovering Your Ideal PCOS Weight

I have helped 100s of women find their “ideal” weight with PCOS. It’s about finding the weight range where your body feels strong, your energy is stable, your symptoms improve, and your habits feel sustainable. This episode breaks down what that looks like and how to identify your personal sweet spot. It’s not about what the scale says—it’s about how your body functions and how you feel day to day. This section helps you reframe weight loss as a process of discovery, not restriction.

Once you’ve found that sweet spot where your PCOS symptoms are improving and your lifestyle feels livable, it’s time to transition to maintenance.

This episode wraps up with a reminder that your PCOS health journey is not about reaching a specific weight or fitting a certain size. It’s about reclaiming your energy, confidence, and hormone balance so you can feel like yourself again. The goal is progress, not perfection—and with the right support and understanding, you can absolutely find a weight and lifestyle where your body thrives.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

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In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, you'll discover how targeted nutritional supplementation can help reduce oxidative stress and improve hormone and metabolic function in women with PCOS. This discussion is based on a recent research article titled The Effects of Nutritional Supplementation on Oxidative Stress and Hormonal and Lipid Profiles in a PCOS-Affected Female. If you’ve been wondering whether certain nutrients—like vitamin D or omega-3s—can actually help with PCOS symptoms, this episode breaks it down in a practical and research-backed way.

Oxidative Stress and PCOS

Oxidative stress is a type of internal cellular stress caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. It’s not the kind of stress you feel emotionally, but rather the kind that leads to cellular damage and accelerates aging. In PCOS, oxidative stress is particularly concerning because it contributes to insulin resistance, increased androgens, chronic inflammation, and even fertility issues. It can also impair egg quality and affect ovulation, adding another layer of complexity for women trying to conceive.

Oxidative Stress Biomarkers (Labs)

This research highlights a few key biomarkers to assess oxidative stress levels, including malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), glutathione (GSH), and nitric oxide (NO). Each of these indicators can help reveal the degree of oxidative damage in the body and how effectively your systems are working to counteract it. In women with PCOS, these markers are often out of balance, showing both elevated oxidative damage and diminished antioxidant defense.

Supplements That Help Reduce Oxidative Stress

This episode explores several key nutrients that play a powerful role in reducing oxidative stress for women with PCOS. These nutrients help lower inflammation, support metabolic function, and improve insulin sensitivity—all of which are essential for hormone balance. Some have been shown to lower testosterone levels and enhance the body’s ability to manage blood sugar, while others support thyroid health and overall inflammation regulation. Some nutrients promote gut health, which is closely tied to hormone regulation, and even those that support better sleep while offering antioxidant benefits that may positively influence fertility. One of the most exciting findings from this study is the suggestion that certain nutrients can influence how genes express themselves. Some support IGF-1 levels, which are important for egg development and ovulation, while others impact insulin sensitivity through specific genetic pathways. There’s also evidence that certain nutrients may reduce the expression of genes involved in chronic inflammation. While more research is needed, this emerging science highlights the potential for nutrition to make meaningful changes at a cellular level.

Supplements in Your PCOS Strategy

No one supplement will fix PCOS, but using the right nutrients can significantly reduce oxidative stress and improve hormone function. As always, quality matters. Choose third-party tested brands and remember that supplements should complement, not replace, lifestyle interventions.

If you're looking for trusted supplement recommendations, you can download the free PCOS The Supplement Guide. I’ve included a list of high-quality brands and tips for getting started.

Improving oxidative stress through nutrition is a powerful tool for managing PCOS. From fertility to energy levels to long-term hormone balance, this episode offers a fresh perspective on what’s possible with the right support.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here.

In this episode of the PCOS Repair Podcast, the spotlight is on one of the most frustrating and commonly misunderstood symptoms of PCOS: fatigue. Whether it's that mid-afternoon slump, the struggle to get out of bed, or the sense of always running on empty, energy issues affect many women with PCOS, and today’s conversation dives deep into why that happens and how to fix it.

Understanding the Link Between PCOS and Fatigue

Fatigue isn’t just about being tired—it’s often the result of a disrupted circadian rhythm. This internal clock controls when you feel alert or sleepy and can easily be thrown off by inconsistent sleep schedules, poor light exposure, or high stress. Even without a formal diagnosis like Addison’s or Cushing’s disease, subtle imbalances in cortisol can dramatically affect how energized you feel throughout the day.

Caffeine and sugar might offer a quick boost, but they often set you up for a hard crash. In this episode, you’ll learn why starting your day with balanced meals instead of quick fixes is crucial for avoiding that roller coaster of energy highs and lows. Learn how even intense workouts can leave you depleted if you don’t support your body with proper nutrition and hydration afterward.

Identifying the Root Causes of PCOS-Related Fatigue

While daily energy dips are frustrating, long-term fatigue that builds over weeks or months is another level entirely. This deeper exhaustion often follows prolonged stress or trauma and is commonly seen in women managing PCOS. When your body has been running on adrenaline for too long, your energy systems begin to falter, leaving you constantly drained.

Fatigue can show up differently depending on your PCOS root causes. Inflammation can make your body feel heavy and sluggish, an overactive stress response burns through your energy reserves too quickly, and insulin resistance leads to sugar crashes that zap your energy. Often, it’s a combination of all three. In this episode, you’ll discover how understanding your root causes is a critical piece of reclaiming your energy.

If you’ve been feeling run-down and tired all the time, this episode is your invitation to shift your focus. Start by creating a more consistent sleep schedule, balancing your meals, building movement into your week, and reducing unnecessary stress. These small changes can create powerful momentum.

You can take the quiz to discover your root cause here

Other Links for the Episode

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https://nourishedtohealthy.com/ep-143