In this podcast, Dr. Weiss breaks down what PCOS is and gives insight into how inositol actually works in the body and provides benefits. Throughout his career he has always sought the holistic approach to curing and preventing disease. Dr. Weiss is an OBGYN expert in hormonal irregularities and reproductive health, and has been helping women with PCOS to regain control of their ovarian health for over 2 decades.

208 – How to know if your period is “abnormal” [Podcast with Dr. Erin Ellis]

207 – Is your hypothalamus out of balance and worsening your pcos? [Podcast with Deborah Maragopoulos

Living a low insulin lifestyle and it’s benefits with PCOS [Podcast with Ali Chappell]

205 - GESTATIONAL DIABETES & PCOS DURING PREGNANCY [Podcast with Lily Nicholas]

PCOS and Pregnancy (Podcast with Dr. Kela Smith) by Dr. Vinu Jyothi, MD, MPH. Dr. Kela Smith is a Holistic-Integrative Fertility and Hormone Doctor. She founded The Hormone Puzzle Society and the Hormone Puzzle Society Educational Institute for Coaches. The Hormone Puzzle Society is a health hub for fertility, hormones, and pregnancy and through this platform Dr. Kela and her team work with women/couples coaching them on how to optimize their body/mind/spirit so they can get and stay pregnant, bring home a healthy baby, have an easy postpartum as well as eliminate symptoms of hormone imbalance. Tune in as they discuss: Navigating PCOS lab testing What to eat to help with androgen balance Managing mental and emotional stress for inflammation Customizing care based on your pcos type How to nourish your nervous system

203 - How Your Gut Health Affects PCOS [Podcast with Dr. Robin Rose] by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi

Binge eating can be a common issue with PCOS because of our hormonal imbalances. Binge eating is also considered a disordered eating habit. Disordered eating, a circumstance that affects up to 75% of women. Lydia Knight is a certified health coach and eating disorder expert. On today’s podcast, Dr. Vinu talks with Lydia Knight about how our relationship with food affects our eating habits and how to change our eating habits and thought processes about food and dieting. | Read More on PCOS Diva

On today’s podcast, Dr. Vinu talks with Megan Kophamer about how she healed her PCOS and how she was able to get pregnant through diet, chiropractic care and lifestyle changes that she learned using the PCOS Diva Jumpstart program. Megan is a stay-at-home mom of 3 who was diagnosed with PCOS when she was 20 and had some fears that she might not be able to have children. Listen in as she shares how she overcame her PCOS and was able to get pregnant.

[200] Podcast Interview with Dr. Gary Kaplan by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi

Listen to this podcast interview with Dr. Gary Kaplan, DO, DABFP, DABPM, FAAMA to learn about a revolutionary new approach to break the cycle of pain and depression, autoimmune conditions, sleep, meditation, gut health, nutrition etc.

199 - IVF, Fertility Goals & Improving Egg Quality [Podcast w/ Lauren Haring] by Amy Medling

198 - Heal your hormones to bring more pleasure into your love life [Podcast with Dr. Jolene Brighten]

Izabelle Wentz Podcast MP3

Dr. Brighten Podcast May2023 by Amy Medling

We're so excited to have Magdalena Wszelaki back on the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss all things breast health with Amy Medling. Magdalena is an endocrine specialist, chef, certified nutrition coach, herbalist, speaker, and educator. Magdalena has personally battled with Graves’, Hashimoto’s, adrenal fatigue, Estrogen Dominance, and years of digestive issues. Her journey led her to look holistically at what causes hormonal imbalances in women and to inspire other women to take care of their health and hormones. Magdalena has worked with women who deal with hormonal imbalances and has found that it is rare to see a woman suffering from only one hormonal imbalance. Estrogen imbalance, thyroid issues, PMS, mood swings and irregular cycles all play a major role in PCOS. That's why this podcast is a must-listen.

On today's podcast, we get to know Dr. Vinu Jyothi, MD, MPH. Dr. Vinu is our newest member of the PCOS Diva Team. She is a physician-researcher, public health advocate, medical reviewer and women's health advocate with a passion for healing PCOS naturally. In this podcast, Amy interviews Dr. Vinu.  Here, Amy and Dr. Vinu both share a passion for holistic PCOS healing. Listen in as we get to know Dr. Vinu and hear about her personal journey with PCOS. She shares what helped her heal her PCOS symptoms and she discusses the importance of sleep, diet, intermittent fasting and more. Dr. Vinu also shares how she'll be contributing to PCOS Diva team and what her plans are for the future of PCOS Diva.

On today's podcast, we learn all about Ayurveda with Dr. Shivani Gupta. Dr. Gupta created a Modern Ayurveda program and Fusionary Formulas to fuse east and west practices for self-care, digestion, stress reduction and metabolism. PCOS Inflammation is the root cause for so many health issues. In this podcast, Dr. Gupta explains at-home remedies to reduce inflammation naturally to help with bloating, brain fog, fatigue, skin issues, depression and more. She explains that Ayurveda has three different types of Doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Everyone has a dosha that they're born with, knowing your dosha can help you live a healthier and more balanced life. It can provide insight into how you should respond to stress, what you should eat and how to personalize self-care for YOU. Tune in to learn: The 3 different types of dosha & what they mean Simple practices of Ayurvedic self-care How to manage PCOS inflammation with Ayurveda How to feel at home in your body & feel whole The benefits of Turmeric Learn how to come back to your home dosha base

Amy and co-host Dr. Vinu Jyothi interview Dr. Poppy Daniels. Dr. Poppy is an OBGYN and specializes in bioidentical hormone therapy, integrative thyroid treatment, and holistic health. On today's podcast, Dr. Poppy explains the effects the pandemic has had on women with PCOS and the fertility effects in both men and women of childbearing age. She explains what she has personally seen in her fertility clinic and the types of treatments. Listen in as we discuss: Types of treatments for PCOS during menopause How to tell the difference between "regular" PCOS symptoms vs starting menopause Saliva hormone testing vs blood hormone testing How long haul C affects women with PCOS Fertility effects in men and women of childbearing age from the pandemic How the birth control pill affects young adolescent women with PCOS

Women with PCOS tend to have an upregulated nervous system. This means there is more nerve cell firing, making it harder for your body to relax after a stressful situation. It's important to know the role of the vagas nerve and how it affects the way your body processes stress. Amy has invited Jessica Maguire on the PCOS Diva Podcast. Jessica is a knowledgeable Trauma Informed Physiotherapist. Her specialty is teaching patients about the vagus nerve and how stress-related illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and autoimmune issues can arise from dysregulation after chronic or traumatic stress. In this episode, Amy and Jessica discuss how our vagus nerve plays a critical role in our mental and physical health and tips for managing anxiety and stress with PCOS. Listen in and learn: What the vagus nerve is and the role it has Tools for managing anxiety & stress The difference between the thinking brain vs the survival brain How to pay attention to your emotions and recognize how to respond The benefits of co-regulation

190 - HACK YOUR MINDSET TO TRANSFORM YOUR FITNESS GOALS [Podcast with Bela Castro] Women with PCOS tend to be very insulin resistant, which is why exercise is so such an important piece to healing PCOS. Today we'll be talking about how mindset can help your wellness goals with Bela Castro, she is the founder and head trainer of B-FIT where she helps women to glow from the inside out. Bela explains how to reveal your inner motivation and how that can help you succeed in your health and fitness goals. Listen in and learn: How to build a healthy relationship with food & nourish your body Ways to incorporate more raw unprocessed foods in your diet Learn what your inner motivation is & how it can help you achieve your goals What it means to achieve higher energetic vibrations through food How to match your daily existence with the ideal version of you

Today we'll be talking about pathways to pregnancy with bestselling author, international speaker, acupuncturist, and high-performance coach Mary Wong. Mary is the founder of Alive Holistic Health, which combines traditional Chinese medicine with Western science to nurture the body and soul. She has helped over 10,000 women in counting overcome infertility, PCOS, and other health challenges. In her book - Pathways to Pregnancy - she explains the power of combining Western and Eastern medicine to improve your chances of having a baby. In her book she shares peoples real stories so that women can feel empowered, have hope, not feel alone, and not have shame on their journey towards motherhood. In today's episode, Mary and Amy also share their personal stories about struggling with infertility, their journeys to motherhood, and overcoming the labels Doctors put on them. Listen in and learn: The positive effects acupuncture and herbal medicine have on fertility How to let go of labels a Dr. may have put on you about your "infertility" How to manage working while going through IVF How to encourage a pregnancy and align yourself to create life The connection a demanding job has on fertility and how to manage that stress

Dr. Dana Cohen is NYC's leading Holistic Doctor and has been on the leading edge of integrative and functional medicine for over two decades. She practices with an emphasis on the individual, understanding that no two patients are alike, and limits her patient's reliance on prescription medications by using diet, lifestyle changes, and nutritional supplementation. Her recent book - Quench - explains the benefits of proper hydration and how it can dramatically affect your health, vitality, and overall quality of life. She explains the right way to hydrate and how to get the water you drink deep into your muscles, cells, and fascia (the connective tissue of your body), where it’s needed most. It's important for women with PCOS to be hydrated. Water is a major component of every cell, tissue, and organ. It plays an important role in almost every bodily function. Increasing your water intake will also help both insoluble and soluble fiber do their job to avoid digestive distress, which is a common symptom of PCOS. Listen in as we discuss: How what you eat affects how you absorb water Debunk myths about “getting enough water” Benefits of salt for hydration Tips for how to drink and absorb more water  How micro-movements throughout the day keep you hydrated  The many ways dehydration affects your mind and body

Dr. Felice Gersh is a ground-breaking thought leader in the field of PCOS. She is a multi award-winning physician with a dual board certification in OBGYN and Integrative Medicine. Dr. Gersh returns to the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss the pros and cons of a pharmaceutical drug called Semaglutide, also marketed under the name of Ozempic and Wegovy. I've heard many women with PCOS talking recently about Semaglutide as a new "magic pill" for PCOS symptoms and weight loss. And that this pill it's not only being used by women with PCOS and type 2 diabetes but it's apparently the hot new weight loss drug celebrities are using in Hollywood. In this podcast, Dr. Gersh explains how this so called "magic pill" (Semaglutide) is a chemical mimic of GLP-1 which your body naturally produces when everything is working right. GLP-1 helps to regulate your appetite and helps create energy by utilizing stored glycogen (a form of stored fat). In this podcast we discuss how a quick fix doesn't usually hold up long term. Listen in as we discuss: - Pros and cons of taking Semaglutide - The concerning effects of getting off the drug - Breaking down the study that "supports" the drug and how the study didn't include women with PCOS - The importance of informed consent - Natural ways to encourage your body to regulate your appetite to lose weight

Interview with Monique Rhodes, she is a master at teaching you how to calm your mind and live a happier life. Mental wellness is so important for women with PCOS because such a large majority of us are suffering with anxiety and depression and mood related disorders. Monique has worked with some of the most well known spiritual teachers of our time like Dalai Lama, Thich Naht Hahn, Ekhart Tolle and Pema Chödrön. She is on a mission to help people who think they can't meditate, she created The 10 Minute Mind meditation course which is used at over 70 universities and colleges. In this podcast Monique explains ways meditation can lead you to happiness and gives mediation tips for people who think they can't mediate. Listen in as we discuss: - How to take expectations off yourself while meditating - Why meditation is the answer to a lot of our problems - The steps you can take right now to create a life of happiness - How not to suppress negative emotions and deal with them as they come - Ways meditation can have a positive ripple effect in your life - How to get rid of harsh beliefs we may have about ourselves that no longer serve us

Women with PCOS often struggle with excess hair growth. Many women have tried different hair removal techniques from electrolysis, at-home lasers, waxing, or threading. I came across a product that is a natural at-home option for hair removal and I am delighted to share it with you on today’s podcast. I speak with Salome Sallehy, the founder and president of Sugar Sugar Wax. She shares all the benefits of sugar waxing and how it can really help women with PCOS. This hair removal technique is really new to me, but I've tried it out and I'm so impressed with the results. Listen in as we discuss: - What is sugaring - Why is it a great hair removal method for women with PCOS - Step by step instructions on how to use Sugar Sugar Wax - When the best time to wax is based on the different hair growth phases - Hair positivity – empowering women to not feel shame around body hair

Vitex, also called "chaste tree", is a plant used in many herbal supplements for hormonal symptoms, including PCOS. There is a lot of conflicting information regarding Vitex in the PCOS community. In today’s podcast, I speak with Jillian Bar-av, a Registered Herbalist and Licensed Nutritionist. We discuss the pros and cons of taking Vitex and where the confusion around taking Vitex for PCOS comes from. Join us as we chat about the following: - Vitex effects on reproductive health - Myths about Vitex raising Luteinizing Hormone - What type of PCOS works best with Vitex - Herbs to help with stress and anxiety

We are designed for and motivated to seek happiness. However, to be motivated but not trained can be frustrating. Sherry Fernandez Stirling uses a unique blend of memoir, sound principles, and practical tools to help you make progress toward your infinite potential and with it, happiness. Life Mastery includes training and systems necessary to reach goals and develop habits needed for success in every area of life, including: Better Relationships A Healthier Body Sounder Finances Spiritual Peace Fun and Passion

Discussion with Dr. Jennifer Mayes about her fantastic healing success using the PCOS Diva Jumpstart program & Meal Plans.  Jennifer is a Professor of English at a community college in Tennessee. She began her journey with PCOS at a very young age.  Besides being an advocate for health and continuing to research and live with PCOS, she also has a YouTube channel, Magical Muses & Monthly Musings, dedicated to her love for makeup and skincare supportive of a PCOS-friendly lifestyle.  She documents her journey with health on her Instagram, jenniferhealthwarrior, and she and her husband, Alex, love to travel and explore new cultures and foods that broaden her understanding of what living with PCOS really means for women everywhere.   Tune in as we discuss: - The negative effects of birth control and mainstream medications on her health - Why Weight Watchers didn’t work for her - long term - Why the PCOS Diva Jumpstart worked for her - Her journey from 269 to 121 pounds - Listening to subtle body cues - Anxiety management - Mindset factors for success

With Over 10 years of struggling to manage her PCOS and being dependent on pills and being disappointed with the phrase that “lifestyle change is the only solution that can help” - Nidhi Singh took control of her health. With PCOS and periods being a taboo subject in India, she felt a dire need to normalize the conversation about PCOS. She realized the lived experiences could truly help women and can be a powerful tool to find reliable resources and build a trusted community. PCOS Club India is now India’s largest PCOS-focused community. Join us as we chat about the following: - The global perspective -  how different cultures play a role in PCOS inheritance & the genetic piece that is often overlooked - The lack of reproductive health options for Indian women - Ayurvedic solutions: eat for your dosha, gut healing, popular Indian herbs and spices

I am honored to interview Dr. David Perlmutter, MD, FACN, a board-certified neurologist, Fellow of the American College of Nutrition, and five-time New York Times bestselling author. He is recognized internationally as a leader in the field of nutritional influences in neurological disorders. His most recent book- Drop Acid – explores the fascinating correlation between high levels of uric acid & an increase, or even a possible cause, in PCOS symptoms. He explains that the elevation of uric acid is not just related to things like weight gain, increased blood sugar, and increased blood pressure, but is actually playing a causative role. This is a major breakthrough in the field of PCOS research. Listen in as we discuss: - What is uric acid & why does your body create it - How high uric acid can cause PCOS symptoms - How to test your uric acid levels and what is a healthy rate - How to fix elevated uric acid level: important lifestyle and supplement additions

Women with PCOS often struggle with gut issues like gas, bloating, constipation, indigestion, and acid reflux. And most doctors are not trained to help you get to the root cause of these symptoms.  That’s why I am excited to share today’s podcast with you - all about gut health & how it is directly connected to PCOS! I spoke with Jillian Smith, a gut health dietitian with a special focus on functional medicine. She teaches that your gut symptoms are valid and they are 100% not normal. Through the RIGHT testing, proper nutrition, personalized lifestyle, and supplement interventions, she helps women heal their gut and experience life symptom-free. Listen as we explore: - The 3 steps to gut healing - The gut-brain connection and how to change your mindset around healing - How to find a gut health practitioner - The top gut health therapies

r. Felice Gersh is a double board-certified, ground-breaking thought leader in the field of PCOS. She returns to the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss taking control of your lifestyle before you enter Menopause.  In general, women with PCOS need to be extra vigilant during the peri-menopause and menopause years because we have more insulin resistance, gut issues, and inflammation. If these issues are left unmanaged, during menopause they can contribute to heightened hot flashes, mood swings, sleep problems, and weight gain. There is hope! Dr. Gersh assures us that Menopause does not have to be all gloom and doom. She shows us how to take control of our health now so we can breeze through Menopause.  Listen in and learn: - 3 stages of menopause and what to expect if you have PCOS - Why PCOS-delayed Menopause is a myth - How to take control now - Tips and best practices to start implementing at all stages of life (and before you hit Menopause) - Hot flash treatments - Why a hysterectomy is not the solution

In today’s podcast, I talk with Dr. K and Ashley, founders of the Seed Oil Rebellion. They are on a mission to help spread awareness of seed oils, their effects on our health, and how to live a seed oil-free life. Seed oils, also known as vegetable oils or industrial seed oils, are highly processed oils extracted from seeds such as soybeans, corn, rapeseed, cottonseed, sunflower, and safflower seeds.  After the seeds are harvested, they are then heated to extremely high temperatures that oxidize the fatty acids creating byproducts that are harmful to our health. Due to the high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids found in these oils, not only do they become inflammatory compounds in the pan but in your body as well. They play a significant role in chronic inflammatory diseases and a large variety of other skin, gut, and weight issues to name a few.  While they may not be present in your home as cooking oils, the truth of the matter is they are in just about everything. Most packaged foods, from tortilla chips to coffee creamer, and just about every restaurant.  The Evil Eight, as we call them, are canola, corn, cottonseed (or rapeseed), soybean, sunflower, safflower, grapeseed, and rice bran. These are the absolute worst oils and should always be avoided as best as possible. The Simple Six, which we consider the healthiest oils are ghee (clarified butter), beef tallow, butter, coconut, avocado, and olive oil. Use these to cook with and look for store-bought options including these too! Our conversation is one you don’t want to miss - get ready to have your mind blown!

I find that poor dental health often accompanies PCOS. Over the years, I have struggled with inflamed gums even though I was vigilant with my oral care. In my quest to find the proper treatment for my teeth, I came across a product that has helped me and I am delighted to share it with you on today’s podcast. I speak with Trina Felber, the founder, and creator of Primal Life Organics, an all-natural dental care company that focuses on oral health as the gateway to internal health. Her mission is to help you gain a complete mouth makeover so not only will your oral health escalate, but so will your overall health. Listen in as we discuss: - The ground-breaking dental research of Dr. Weston A. Price regarding sugar and cavities (and much more!) - How acidic foods affect the health of your mouth - The necessary toothpaste minerals needed to optimize your oral health (few products have them) - What ingredients to look out for in your dental products – more than fluoride - Mouthwash, yes or no? - What causes bad breath - Light therapy for whitening your teeth naturally

Interview with Dee McCaffrey, an organic chemist turned clinical nutritionist and internationally acclaimed author. She walks us through her method and explains how she was able to lose 100 pounds and keep it off for three decades by eliminating processed foods. Tune in to learn: How chemicals in processed food lead to addictions How to respect the natural design of your body What it means to be overfed and undernourished Deep exploration of natural cane sugar Which sugars are best for PCOS Why vegetables are the prime fuel for your body and weight loss

One of the main pillars of being a PCOS Diva is learning how to think like a Diva which means changing your mindset around the way that you view your PCOS diagnosis. On today’s podcast, I talk with Ann Papayoti, author and mindset coach. She is dedicated to helping people rise above life’s painful and challenging moments so that they can live their best lives. She shows us how easy change can be once we embrace the gift within the challenge and set our course for a lighter heart, an alternative emotion, and surrender within the moment. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - How self-healing begins with self-compassion - What are your sticky notes or self-limiting beliefs? - How to know if you are stuck in unconscious avoidance - The energy of emotions & the most powerful emotions for healing - How to “float” in your pain, not push it away

In today’s podcast, I speak with April Tesson, the founder of The Period Yogi – an online yoga membership that helps women pair their yoga with the natural rhythms of their menstrual cycle. April weaves together a holistic, therapeutic approach to menstruation and the uniqueness of the female body to create customized movement practices that nourish the four distinct phases of your cycle. Instead of working against your body’s natural ebbs and flows, her classes support your changing needs throughout the month to optimize your flow. She teaches you how to easily track your phases (and gives us a free tracker) so you can know your body on a deeper level and tap into its innate wisdom and power. The Period Yogi helps women who: - Need relief from period pain that’s dragging you down - Want help regulating stress levels - Are dealing with monthly pain from Endometriosis or PCOS and want to find holistic support - Are transitioning off hormonal birth control and want to reconnect with your cycle - Are on the perimenopause rollercoaster and want to ease symptoms naturally - Are post-menopause or not cycling and feel untethered without a cyclical rhythm

My mission on the PCOS Diva podcast is to help you get to the root cause of your PCOS symptoms. I know this can often feel like a complicated hormonal puzzle to solve. Mold toxicity is one possible root cause you may not have thought about. I sat down with mold expert, Bridgit Danner and asked her to teach us how toxic mold affects our bodies. If you are struggling with chronic health issues that just won’t go away, tune in to explore this important topic. What you will learn: - Common health symptoms of mold illness - How to identify signs of mold in your home - What’s involved in home remediation - Home testing for mold toxicity (environmental and physical) - Toxic mold detox techniques that really work

Join me for this high-spirited conversation with Dani Williamson. She is a family nurse practitioner with a thriving functional medicine practice called Integrative Family Medicine located in Franklin, Tennessee. Dani is proof that there is vibrant health after a lifelong diagnosis is handed to you. She is the author of a brand-new book, Wild & Well: Dani's Six Commonsense Steps to Radical Healing. We cover a lot of ground together. First, we explore the connection between unprocessed childhood trauma and autoimmune disease. She stresses how important it is that we address adverse childhood experiences so we can lessen their impact on the physical body and reverse disease. Then we discuss her common-sense method of holistic healing which includes the following pieces: Eat well, sleep well, move well, poop well, de-stress well, and commune well. Finally, she explains how you can AED your life: automate, eliminate and delegate everything you can to make space for YOU and your healing. You will love her sense of humor and down-to-earth approach!

With PCOS, there's an increased risk of hypertension, high cholesterol, depression, anxiety, insulin resistance, diabetes, all things that can put us at risk for heart disease. So, I wanted to start a campaign to make people aware of these metabolic connections. Ashley Levinson is a well-known PCOS advocate. She joins the podcast to talk about her viral online campaign called #Heart4PCOS which educates women on the connection between PCOS and heart disease. She wants us to know that PCOS affects many different systems and organs of the body, including the heart. Unfortunately, this is not well known in mainstream health care so she is passionate about spreading awareness. Learn how you can join in the #Heart4PCOS campaign and advocate for better research and education around this very important issue.

Anxiety is often a common state for women with PCOS. If your diet is good, you exercise, and you’re doing all the right things and still struggling with stress, you may need to go deeper. In today’s podcast, I speak with Dr. Mark Halpern. He is a chiropractor, author, lecturer, and certified HeartMath practitioner, and the author of a new book called Coherence Revolution. We talk about how HeartMath can help you overcome chronic stress and anxiety. If you are new to HeartMath, let’s start by defining what it is: “The HeartMath system empowers people to self-regulate their emotions and behaviors to reduce stress, increase resilience, and unlock their natural intuitive guidance for making more effective choices. This enables people to break through to greater levels of personal balance, creativity, insight, and health.” Dr. Halpern takes HeartMath one step further in his movement Coherence Revolution. Listen is as we explore: - The origin of chronic stress: fight/flight/freeze - Heart rate variability or HRV - What is coherence and how do you get more of it - How to create a daily coherence schedule for yourself - How to join his Coherence Revolution today

I speak with my friend and neighbor, Liz Barbour, in today's podcast. She is a chef, a cooking instructor, the founder of The Creative Feast, and author of Beautifully Delicious: Cooking with Herbs and Edible Flowers. She is passionate about helping people overcome their kitchen fears by teaching them basic, essential cooking skills. If food preparation is overly complicated or involves exotic ingredients, people get overwhelmed and resort to unhealthy food choices. She has a ton of fantastic tips to share on how to get back into the kitchen and sizzle with ease. Liz is also an avid fan of intermittent fasting, and she hosts a Facebook group called Live Free and Fast, an Intermittent Fasting Support Group. I love her approach to intermittent fasting because it's not a one-size-fits-all. With PCOS and insulin resistance, it's important to listen to your body and take things slow. Liz shares valuable insights on how to make intermittent fasting work for you and also points out the obstacles to success. Listen in as we discuss: -How to make vegetables taste delicious (so you actually eat them) -How to take simple dishes and elevate them -The disadvantages of a traditional Keto diet -Explore the different intermittent fasting protocols -How to ease into intermittent fasting -Obstacles to successful fasting

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Madiha Saeed about how to raise healthy children. She's also known as the Holistic Mom, MD. She's a family physician and bestselling author. She has a brand-new book out called The Holistic RX for Kids, parenting healthy brains and bodies in a changing world. And she is a mom of four young boys, so she knows a thing or two about getting kids to eat healthy inside and outside of the home. We share practical and accessible tips to use immediately so children can implement healthy habits long-term. Listen to discover: - What is a holistic approach to getting children to eat healthily - How to educate and empower children to be mindful of their bodies - How to be a healthy role model - Teaching children to notice how food makes them feel - Redirecting the child’s focus to her “big why” to strengthen diet changes - How to stock your kitchen for success: Providing healthy alternatives - Easy food combos for eating the whole food rainbow

So often with PCOS, doctors don’t prescribe the inner work that is absolutely necessary for healing. Instead, you are given what you hope is a magic pill that will “fix” your symptoms. When that doesn’t work, you are left with a host of negative emotions that spiral out of control and it’s easy to get stuck in a victim mentality. In this episode, I talk with Michelle Chalfant about The Adult Chair, her transformational model of self-realization that blends simple psychology with grounded spirituality. She explains that we are all made up of three distinct parts: the inner child, the adolescent, and the adult. Each part is developed separately through our lives and serves an important role in our overall emotional well-being. The Adult Chair Model uses three chairs to represent these perspectives: the child chair, the adolescent chair, and the adult chair. Unfortunately, most of us are sitting in that adolescent chair. Listen to discover: Why your inner child holds the keys to unlocking your pain Practical tools to use to connect with your inner child How to stay present in the moment and not make faulty future assumptions The importance of feeling your emotions How to love and witness all your fragmented parts to restore the whole true self

Are you ready to be inspired by the courageous story of my former client Nafsheen Luhar? I know this podcast will open your heart and help you rediscover hope that you, too, can have a happy ending.  Like so many women with PCOS, Nafsheen experienced a traumatic childhood that led to weight issues, low self-esteem, self-harm, PCOS, and uterine cancer – her final wake-up call. But Nafsheen didn’t remain a victim for long.  In her darkest despair, she found an inner power that led her out of pain.  And she learned to love herself, partner with her body, and move beyond limiting beliefs to access her creative center.   She came to understand that the suffering was precisely what she needed to fulfill her purpose. Now she expresses her soul’s work as a respected photographer, transformational coach, self-love advocate, and speaker.

I invited Courtney Marchesani to join me on this podcast to talk more about the highly sensitive person and to explore how it relates to PCOS. Courtney specializes in the often-hidden mental health and emotional struggles of Highly Sensitive People (HSP). HSP's were first written about by Dr. Elaine Aron in her book The Highly Sensitive Person. Often overwhelmed by the intensity and stimulation from the world, HSP's make up roughly 15 to 20% of the population. She won the Hay House 2017 Writer's Workshop Book Contest with her proposal Four Gifts of the Highly Sensitive which identifies four specific archetypes of the highly sensitive person. Listen in (or read the transcript below) as we discuss: - Definition & characteristics of the Highly Sensitive Person - How PCOS, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, gastrointestinal disorders, and fascia tension present in the HSP - How inflammation, which is one of the root factors of PCOS, is actually adding to the sensitivity - Tips and tricks to thrive as an HSP - The gifts of being sensitive

Dr. Renee Wellenstein is a double board-certified Ob/Gyn with over 20 years of experience. When she found herself struggling with deep burnout and found no solutions in traditional treatment, she began searching for safe, reliable, and proven natural treatments. Now Dr. Renee empowers women to take control of their health, jumpstart energy, improve confidence, and re-ignite their libido using natural techniques that work. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss her process as well as: - Why burnout and low libido it isn’t always about hormones - The role of stress, toxins, insulin, glucose, & estrogen dominance - Strategic & limited supplement suggestions - Her “Non-Negotiable” self-care habits

Aimee Raupp proudly calls herself a fertility detective. She has helped thousands of women overcome their health and fertility challenges using a Chinese medicine approach for the past two decades. She works with you on every level: emotionally, mentally, physically, and nutritionally to help you thrive and get pregnant faster. In this podcast, we explore the often overlooked first step to fertility, emotional inflammation. Listen in as we discuss: - The difference between emotional inflammation and physical inflammation - How trying so hard can actually be sabotaging your fertility efforts - Aimee’s fertility diet: 100-day elimination diet to heal the gut and improve egg quality - Transgenerational trauma: Women who heal themselves heal their children’s children - Getting your partner on board the fertility train

September is PCOS Awareness Month. In honor of this transformative event, I spoke with Sasha Ottey, founder and executive director of PCOS Challenge which leads the way in furthering the causes of research funding, patient and doctor education, and community awareness. Listen in (or read the transcript below) as we discuss: - The PCOS Challenge backstory: Origin & Mission - Advocacy Day 2021: Celebrating legislation success stories - Patient-centered research studies: Get involved and make a difference - PCOS Awareness Month: Explore this month’s themes, important dates, hashtags, and how YOU can add to this story of hope and healing for women

Regulation of blood sugar levels is a critical factor in managing PCOS. I have long advocated for glucose monitoring, but new technology like continuous glucose monitoring is making it easier, faster, and more revealing. Kara Collier is a registered dietician, nutritionist, and founding partner of NutriSense where she's the director of nutrition. More than that, Kara is the leading authority on the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology. - 4 pillars of glucose regulation: nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress - The value of data to share with your doctors - Snacks with a neutral effect on blood sugar - Supplements that seem to help people increase insulin sensitivity - Nutrient deficiencies that can cause glucose dysregulation

Phoebe Lapine is a best-selling author and award-winning food and health writer. She's a SIBO expert, gluten-free chef, wellness expert, culinary instructor, and Hashimoto's advocate and speaker. In her new book, SIBO Made Simple, she shares recipes for healthy comfort food and insights about balanced lifestyle choices beyond what's on your plate. Through her own health journey, she was able to find the middle ground between health and hedonism. If you feel overwhelmed by kind of the rigidity and perfectionism of the holistic health world, Phoebe has advice you won’t want to miss. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss SIBO and living well with a restricted diet.

If you struggle with PCOS, you may suffer from related hair loss. Beyond the physical symptom, hair loss often has a tremendous emotional component which impacts most areas of your life. This was true both for me and my podcast guest Y. I discovered Y over a decade ago when I was desperately seeking answers for my own hair loss. She was a pioneer in education and support for those dealing with hair loss then, and she remains a key figure through her work with her Women’s Hairloss Project. If you are feeling alone in your struggle, this podcast is for you. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - The birth control pill and spironolactone for hair loss - Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (PRP) - Wigs, toppers, & how to make them work - Managing the emotional component of hair loss

Dr. Heather Seay is a doctor of acupuncture and Chinese medicine who has been in practice for 12 years. She is also a fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. In her practice at Eastern Bench Holistic Healthcare in Salt Lake City, she commonly works with women who have fertility issues. As more positive research about the benefits of acupuncture becomes available, more traditional doctors are integrating it into treatments for those with PCOS. Listen in as Dr. Seay and I discuss: - What is Chinese medicine and how does it differ from Western medicine? - Benefits of acupuncture for fertility and PCOS - How to approach acupuncture with primary care or OB GYN doctors - Is it safe to practice acupuncture when using Clomid or Letrozole? - Possible treatment options for hair loss & weight loss

Dr. Aviva Romm, MD is a Yale School of Medicine trained, board-certified family physician, specializing in women's health and obstetrics, but what makes her unique is she’s a midwife and an herbalist as well. She's the author of eight books on natural medicine, and I love her brand-new book, Hormone Intelligence, the Complete Guide to Calming Hormone Chaos and Restoring Your Body's Natural Blueprint for Well-Being. Dr. Romm believes it's time for a paradigm shift in medical mistreatment of women. It’s time to give women the tools and the information to move away from dismissive attitudes, pills for every ill, and surgery as the first and only treatment options. This book and podcast are for all women who want to understand and feel empowered about their body's hormones and cycles and are ready to start healing naturally. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss how to begin healing PCOS before resorting to medication and her 8 tips for your next doctor’s visit.

Dr. Mariza Snyder has a plan for those of us in perimenopause or menopause to excel beyond the misinformation and expectations set by conventional wisdom. This is a time of life when women can be at their most powerful. Our life experience offers not only obligations, but opportunity and perspective to begin a whole new level of thriving like a PCOS Diva! Our body is ready to free up the energy it has spent on fertility for all new endeavors. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss how implementing consistent natural solutions can be the foundation for your best years yet. When are pharmaceuticals necessary? The root cause of the most common peri/menopause symptoms Lifestyle and mindset steps to take to reclaim health, energy, and vitality Dr. Mariza’s favorite essential oil blend for perimenopause and menopause

Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopath doctor, women’s health activist, and best-selling author of two books which I and countless others use as a foundation for natural management of hormones. She is a long-time friend of PCOS Diva and has contributed her uniquely accessible wisdom in many ways. Her new book, The Hormone Repair Manual, is for those of us born before 1984 though it’s food for thought for all of us. Dr. Briden’s advice can help us approach perimenopause/menopause or “second puberty” with grace and ease. She describes this time as a hormonal recalibration and an opportunity to thrive in all new ways. Listen in or read the transcript as we discus how to approach menopause as well as: - How to talk to your doctor about possible treatments - Why progestins of hormonal birth control are NOT the same thing as progesterone - Benefit of keeping your cycle going as long as possible - Insulin resistance management tips - Why a vegetarian diet may not be the right choice

Dr. Stephanie Estima has a positive, straightforward, and holistic approach to healing PCOS that will resonate with you as a PCOS Diva. She is a Doctor of Chiropractic with a special interest in metabolism, body composition, functional neurology, and female physiology. She is also the host of a high-energy podcast called “Better With Dr. Stephanie” and author of a brand new book called “The Betty Body.” What’s a Betty? You’re going to love her answer. Tune in or read the transcript as we discuss that as well as: - Small habits with big impact for healing hormones - Tips on managing your inner critic - New habits and shifts to make around bedtime - Why you need to play Tetris & have regular orgasms - The best type of movement for PCOS, high testosterone, inulin resistance, and mood dysregulation

At the heart of the PCOS Diva philosophy, we are striving for connection to our bodies rather than control over them. Today’s podcast guest Emily Francis and I agree that you must treat the physical body, the emotional body, the energy body, and the spiritual body together for true healing to occur. Healing PCOS is so much more than going on a low carb diet or beating yourself up at the gym. Listen in or read the transcript of my conversation with Emily as we discuss taking back your power and living your best possible life.

Do you have symptoms of estrogen dominance? A better question may be who doesn’t have symptoms of estrogen dominance. Does any of this sound familiar: fibroids, endometriosis, fibrocystic and lumpy breasts, mood swings, hot flashes, absent, irregular, or heavy periods, PMS, thyroid nodules, infertility and miscarriage, cellulite and hip fat, spider or varicose veins, hair loss, headaches or migraines. Getting to the root of your estrogen dominance can have a tremendous impact on your health. Magdalena Wszelaki is back on the PCOS Diva podcast to help us naturally get our estrogen balance back on track. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - 3 scenarios of why you may be low in estrogen or have estrogen dominance - What the DUTCH test can and cannot tell you - Natural steps you can take to reverse estrogen dominance - Pros and cons of flaxseed - The food that can help hot flashes

We are not certain why, but people with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) are found to have higher levels of BPA and other chemicals in their blood than those without PCOS, and it negatively impacts our hormones. We know there are unregulated man-made chemicals all around us, in our food, water, air, cosmetics, furniture, the list goes on. It can easily make you anxious and overwhelmed. We need practical advice on what to do and where to begin. Enter Dr. Aly Cohen. She is a board-certified rheumatologist and integrated medicine specialist, as well as an environmental health expert. Her new book makes the confusing understandable and the overwhelming easy. Listen in as we discuss: - Endocrine (hormone) disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and their impact on PCOS, especially insulin resistance - Practical (often free or inexpensive) tips on how to live healthy in the chemical world - Foods which help our body detoxify - Effect of toxins on epigenetics and PCOS - Nutrients you need to offset some exposures - Safer use of cell phones, tech toys, and gadgets

Acne is one of the most common, frustrating, and heartbreaking symptoms of PCOS. Dr. Shayne Peter is a functional medicine doctor and holistic dermatology specialist who's helped thousands of women resolve their acne. In this podcast we discuss nutritional deficiencies, skin care products, and the role of hormones in getting to the root cause of acne. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - clues acne can give you about your health - minerals and vitamins that can help resolve PCOS acne - skin care products that help and hurt - role of the microbiome on acne - impact of alcohol on acne

Jodi Cohen is a best-selling author, award-winning journalist, and founder of Vibrant Blue Oils. She is also the author of the brand new, fantastic book, Essential Oils to Boost the Brain and Heal the Body. Essential oils can be a powerful tool in your PCOS toolbox. Jodi offers practical advice that we can all use. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - Ways to use essential oils to manage PCOS symptoms such as sleep, stress, fatigue, anxiety, brain fog, depression, blood sugar challenges, and more - Adrenal blend for chronic stress - Inhaling vs. topical vs. ingesting essential oils - Fastest way to calm anxiety or a panic attack - Essential oils to improve vagus nerve function and why you need that

There is no such thing as a “PCOS Diet.” Each person is different, and we each respond to different foods in unique ways. The heart of the PCOS Diva message is to find the foods that fuel your body, reduce inflammation, and leave you feeling great. A plant-rich diet is key for most people, but is a vegetarian or vegan diet right for you? Registered Dietitian Martha McKittrick returns to the podcast to answer this question and many more. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - Pros and cons of a vegetarian/vegan diet - How to get enough protein on a plant-based diet without too many carbs - Practical tips on how to add more plant-based foods at every meal - How to approach soy and dairy - Supplements to consider when going vegetarian

If you have PCOS and also struggle with autoimmune issues like Hashimoto's, IBS, celiac, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or chronic fatigue syndrome, then this episode is for you. Dr. Kasia Kines, one of the world’s leading experts on the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Amy discuss the possible underlying factor of all of those autoimmune issues, as well as other symptoms that you haven't really been able to get to the root of such as celiac, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, and diabetes. Did you have mononucleosis (mono) in your youth? Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - What is Epstein-Barr virus? - Could EBV be triggering some of your PCOS symptoms? - Possible EBV symptoms including chronic brain fog, achiness, autoimmune disorders, enlarged lymph nodes, headaches, low platelets, mouth ulceration, skin rashes, mast cell issues, or allergies - Steps you can take to recover - Suggested lab tests

Stacey Robbins is an inspiration. I love her sense of humor and sage approach to illness, healing, aging, and life in general. She encourages us to use every circumstance, including a diagnosis, to transform our victim mindset, rediscover our sense of humor, and learn to love ourselves again. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss her journey through PCOS and Hashimoto’s, extreme weight gain and loss, healing, and finding the path to loving herself. Many of us will find commonality with her as she describes how it took her diagnosis to convince her to listen to her body, seize the opportunity, and heal from the soul out. No matter where you are in your journey, you owe it to yourself to hear her wisdom about how to heal and truly thrive.

If you Google "PCOS" you may or may not connect with the first set of symptoms described. PCOS is experienced in many ways. This has led the PCOS community to begin to describe “types” or phenotypes of PCOS. I asked renowned reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Rashmi Kudesia to help us make sense of the types of PCOS which are being discussed and the relative pros and cons of labeling the differences. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Getting the right diagnosis & conditions which mimic PCOS - Types of PCOS and what makes each unique - Why your PCOS type may change over time - The critical reason to understand and track your cycle whether or not you are TTC - Why there is so much hope for women with PCOS

Dr. Felice Gersh is a double board certified, ground-breaking thought leader in the field of PCOS. She returns to the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss taking control of your lifestyle before trying to get pregnant for the sake of the mother’s pre and postnatal health, ease of conception, and future health of the child. As Dr. Gersh explains, “If an unhealthy woman somehow achieves pregnancy through luck or through different techniques and gets through that pregnancy, that child is more likely to have a whole slew of issues; whether it's ADHD or even increased risk of autism, or things like metabolic syndromes, diabetes and weight gain at younger ages, cardiometabolic issues, and mood problems.” Listen in as we discuss: - The food you should include in your diet every day - The critical factor of circadian rhythm - How timed eating may help - The brain/gut/inflammation connection and how to make it work better - Benefits of aromatherapy - The dark side of alcohol

Dr. Erica Armstrong, Md, IFMCP has a realistic, holistic approach to managing cravings and insulin resistance. We agree that willpower is no match for what is physiologically going on in our PCOS bodies. Overcoming destructive cravings must be centered on balancing hormones and blood sugar to prevent cravings from taking over. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss why women with PCOS seem to struggle more than our non-PCOS peers with sugar and carb cravings and tips about how to manage them. - Why the focus should not be weight loss when working on lowering insulin - Tips on how to eat to balance blood sugar and manage cravings - Snack ideas - Supplements that help manage cravings - Pitfalls of sugar substitutes

You know how sometimes your mind wants to go, but your body says no? Jenni Hulbert is a holistic fitness specialist, and she helps women “live and sweat in sync with nature.” I love this more intuitive and mindful approach to exercise, movement, and fitness. Exercise doesn’t have to be about training harder, causing stress, overtaxing our system, and creating more problems. Jenni encourages tracking your natural ebbs and flows, whether it is syncing with your menstrual cycle or other natural rhythms. Learning when your body wants to move-it and when it needs rest can be the key to long-lasting habits. Listen in or read the transcript to learn more about how to pair movement with your natural cycles and get the results you are looking for.

The journey from infertility to fertility can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Dr. Mark Trolice, M.D. is the kind of knowledgeable and supportive doctor we all need. Double board certified in both OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, he shares the wisdom he has gained in his years of research and practice with compassion and a gift for clearly communicating options. Listen in as we discuss: - The 4 issues that can impact your fertility Managing the emotional toll - Possible impact of endocrine disruptors, caffeine, hot tubs, saunas, and cell phones - Things your partner should consider - The Type of doctor to see when you've been diagnosed with PCOS & you want to start trying to conceive - Financing options for fertility treatments

Histamine intolerance is the root of many symptoms we write off as environmental allergies such as migraines and hives and flushing, vertigo, congestion or runny nose, low blood pressure, dizziness or lightheadedness, eczema, anxiety, menstrual irregularity, and diarrhea. Dr. Becky Campbell has a solution to determine if these symptoms are actually a function of your diet and how to fix it without eliminating otherwise healthy foods that you love. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - The symptoms of histamine intolerance - The link between histamine intolerance & the development of autoimmune disorders - High histamine foods - Histamine v. food sensitivity - How to manage histamine intolerance

Nicole Zasowski is a marriage and family therapist, and in her new book, Nicole shares her story as she helps find an enduring peace and joy outside of circumstance. Many of us have felt lost after a diagnosis. We've struggled with symptoms and suffered difficulties getting pregnant and maybe even had a miscarriage. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Keeping perfectionism in check - Antidotes to anxiety - 3 things to keep in mind to feel secure in an unsafe or stressful situation - Seeking the positive

Being a PCOS Diva is centered upon empowering yourself with information so that you can take better control of your PCOS. That information can come from many sources, but there's no better information than the data that your cycles (or lack thereof) give you every month. Cycle tracking is how I discovered I had PCOS and it’s an excellent way to track fertility as well as diet, supplement, and lifestyle changes. But it is not always simple to track your cycle with PCOS. Most predictor kits don't work for us. In fact, many PCOS patients are told by their doctors that they're not ovulating. Very often that is untrue. PCOS cycles are simply different. New research indicates that there are 3 cycles unique to women with PCOS. Listen in or read the transcript as our expert guest, Kate Davies, discusses: - Fertility monitors - Types of menstrual cycles and what they mean - How to best communicate about your cycle with your doctor - Natural interventions to help women with PCOS ovulate

Intermittent fasting or time-restricted eating (TRE) is not a fad. It is a way of eating that has existed for millennia. Is it right for women with PCOS? Dr. Nadia Pateguana explains why it may be the best option for women with PCOS who wish to lose weight and/or balance their hormones. What are the benefits? What are the risks? Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Intermittent fasting and PCOS - The optimal diet for PCOS - Fasting periods- why fasting longer isn't necessarily better - Is it safe to fast with a history of disordered eating? - The role of healthy fat and how to incorporate it into our diet

Dr. Anna Cabeca is a perfect person to talk to about diet and lifestyle for PCOS. Not only is she triple board certified and a fellow of gynecology and obstetrics, integrative medicine, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine, she has special certifications in functional medicine, sexual health, and bio identical hormone replacement therapy. Whether you are TTC, struggling with perimenopause or menopause, or simply trying to get your PCOS under control, this podcast is for you. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss: - Hormones and mental health - The power of gratitude & mindset - Intermittent fasting - Alkalinity and its impact - Ways to impact your blood sugar beyond medication & diet

Anovulation (lack of ovulation) is one of the hallmarks of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but it is widely misunderstood. Award winning Fertility Specialist Dr. Rashmi Kudesia returns to the podcast to break down the basics of ovulation, dispel some mythology, and answer some of the most commonly asked questions. Whether you are trying to conceive or just figure out what is going on, tune in (or read the transcript) and learn: - Why your period may be heavy, long, short, or non-existent - Ways to increase chances of ovulation - Supplements & herbs that can help - The impact of gestational diabetes on you and your children - Do patients with PCOS enter menopause later? - Can you have a period and not ovulate? - Why is a birth control pill period not a true period? - How should women with PCOS to track their cycles? - What is the impact of insulin resistance and extra weight? - Can acupuncture help? - What is the difference between your OB-GYN and a reproductive endocrinologist?

Dr. Aumatma Shah, ND is a naturopathic doctor, nutritionist, and author. She specializes in helping women naturally boost their fertility and stay pregnant and healthy. Miscarriage is a difficult topic, and her practical and compassionate approach to not only getting pregnant, but maintaining a healthy pregnancy, even after prior miscarriage will resonate with many of us. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Managing underlying health conditions: IR, hypothyroid, hormonal imbalance, MTHFR mutation, & blood clotting - How to advocate for tests (including genetic factors) and progesterone therapy - Folate v. folic acid and the risks of supplements with folic acid - Tips to prepare for a successful pregnancy - Natural thyroid hormone replacement suggestions - Weight loss factors and tips - Metformin in pre-pregnancy and pregnancy

She’s back!  Nicole Jardim, certified women’s health coach and co-host of the podcast The Period Party has a brand-new book out in which she outlines her step-by-step natural protocol for hormone balance and to improve everything from PMS, period pain, and heavy periods to irregular cycles and missing periods. Listen in (or read the transcript) as Nicole returns to the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss this and much more including: - Thyroid, lab tests to request, and the impact of subclinical hypothyroidism - Why it is crucial for us to understand root causes of period problems - Misdiagnosis of PCOS in teenage girls - Body-wide result of altering hormones with birth control pills

Being a PCOS Diva is about creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that can help manage symptoms and heal your body long term. If somebody told me that I could never enjoy a glass of wine with a good meal or a special occasion, that just wouldn't be sustainable for me. There must be room in the PCOS Diva lifestyle for an occasional mindful indulgence. So, when PCOS Divas ask me if it is ok to have a glass of wine, my answer is YES, in moderation of course, but we also must be PCOS Divas about the wine we drink. Listen in (or read the transcript) as Todd White, founder of Dry Farms Wine explains how to choose the healthiest possible wine and shares some of the commercial wine industry’s “dirty little secrets.”

It is so important for all women to understand the benefits and risks (beyond nutrient deficiencies and blood clots) of the birth control pill. This tiny tablet that has the potential to empower us in many ways is often prescribed without an explanation of the effect on your brain. The research is clear- the pill changes women. Though women go on the pill for a handful of targeted reasons—such as pregnancy prevention and clearer skin—sex hormones don’t work that way. Sex hormones impact the activities of billions of cells in the body at once, many of which are in the brain. As a result, the pill affects sex, hunger, friendships, aggression, learning, and more. Dr. Sarah E. Hill, a leading researcher in evolutionary psychology, provides women with an even-handed, science-based understanding of how their bodies and brains work on and off the pill. She recognizes how instrumental the pill has been in helping women advance in the workplace and society. Dr. Hill credits the pill to her own ability to achieve a doctorate and career success. In turn, she’s not anti-birth control. She’s pro-woman. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss how the pill impacts: - Sexual desire - Stress response - Mental health - Level of achievement

Kirsten Karchmer is dedicated to helping women improve their health, menstrual cycles, and fertility. Her focus is on integrative medicine, and she visits the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss the power of the menstrual cycle to help women with PCOS understand what is misaligned and how to bring the entire system into balance. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - How to integrate the best of Chinese medicine, Western medicine, mindfulness, mindset, diet, and exercise - Impact of diet (vegan, keto, etc.) on menstruation - The specific menstrual cycle presentation for pregnancy success - Signals your period may be sending - Moving beyond mindfulness

“You can eat perfectly, and if you don't get those circadian rhythms in line, that leptin, ghrelin, that hunger-full satiety center will disregulate. If it does and you develop leptin resistance where the central nervous system and leptin don't talk, no matter what you try to do, your system will be dysregulated, your weight will be a problem, your hormones will be a problem, your fertility will be an issue.” – Dr. Dian Ginsberg There is a reason you have PCOS. Our ancestors developed it as a survival mechanism. Now those mechanisms are at odds with modern lifestyle conditions. Dr. Dian Ginsberg is a specialist interested in helping women with PCOS get to the root of our symptoms and naturally bringing our bodies into balance and health. As she says, PCOS doesn’t define you. “It's just something that's developed. And by unwrapping what's happened, by following some of these tips, you can reverse what you have.” Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Getting to the root of your PCOS - Why the birth control pill, Metformin and spironolactone aren't really fixing PCOS - What we can control to help our genes work better - Light and circadian rhythm - Insulin resistance vs. gut issues

There is, without a doubt, a genetic component of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). But did you know that the latest research says there is something we can do about it? The field of epigenetics is growing fast, and we are learning to control how genetics behave and even how things are transmitted from generation to generation. Listen in (or read the transcript) as Dr. Fiona McCulloch and I discuss: - What is epigenetics? - Tips for changing how your genes are expressed - The profound impact of a father’s genetics & health on a child's health - Why the 1 year before trying to conceive is a critical time - Importance of sleep and circadian rhythm, especially for women with PCOS How late shift work impacts PCOS

I can't stress enough that the more that you plan, the more that you get yourself prepared and organized, the more likely you are to succeed with your PCOS-friendly diet. You might initially feel uncomfortable because you're just not used to being in the kitchen and preparing your food from scratch. But it's going to make such a huge difference in the way that you feel and your PCOS symptoms, that you will begin to love it. And the best way to do that is to just get into the kitchen and start doing it! In this podcast, I offer advice about meal planning including: - How to avoid being overwhelmed by the process - Where I get recipes and inspiration - My own planning process & tricks - Why I only plan dinners (& snacks) - How weeknight traditions take a lot of the planning out of meal planning - “Game changer” tips

Many women with PCOS put happiness on hold. “I will be happy when I lose the weight,” “when I have a baby,” “when I get a new job,” etc. The truth is, we cannot wait. Happiness has a metabolic effect. Our health literally depends upon choosing happiness now. Margie Bissinger is an expert in this area and explains how we can take steps every day to enhance our happiness.

Is CBD effective for PCOS? Many believe that CBD can help with symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, anxiety, inflammation, and some autoimmune issues. I asked Dr. Mary Clifton, a respected expert in CBD, cannabis, and medical marijuana for her thoughts. If you’ve considered CBD, but are having a hard time finding reliable information, you are not alone. Listen in as we discuss: - How long to try it before deciding if it works for you - Best modes of delivery - How to find a good product - Difference between CBD and Marijuana - Will it show up on a drug test?

Let’s talk about emotional eating. You've tried everything to get your cravings under control. You manage your blood sugar. You take supplements like berberine and Ovasitol. You are eating a clean, PCOS-friendly diet, and you're still struggling with binge eating or compulsive overeating. If you're really struggling with sugar cravings and having a hard time getting your eating under control, listen as I talk with Tricia Nelson, author of the book Heal Your Hunger. She has fantastic insight about the causes of emotional eating and offers practical strategies for getting it under control.

Gut health is central to many of our body’s critical functions such as hormone regulation and managing the immune system, as well as digestive and neurological systems. Dr. Meaghan Kirschling has had tremendous success in her practice using low-dose immunotherapy for treatment of certain symptoms of PCOS and much more. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - The connection between PCOS and autoimmune issues (such as Hashimoto’s) - How immunotherapy works - The differences between Low-Dose Immunotherapy (LDI), Low-Dose Allergen (LDA), & Low-Dose Naltrexone - The connection between PCOS, endometriosis, yeast, and candida - Gut Health and sugar cravings

Hair issues are near and dear to my heart. Whether it is losing hair on the head or growing it in unwanted places, it is a struggle that many of us face. Women with PCOS are 60% more likely to have mood related disorders. And I know for me, when I was struggling with hair loss, it really added to my sense of depression and isolation, and it exacerbated those emotional issues. So, I invited Dr. Michelle Jeffries back to give us some answers about why we experience hair loss and what we can do about it. We discuss: - Types of hair loss and the relationship to PCOS - Hormone and nutrient deficiency testing - Suggested supplements - Alternative Treatments: Essential oils, Acupuncture, Laser, electrolysis, platelet rich plasma (PRP), Saw palmetto, Nutrafol - Topical over the counter and prescriptions - Hair transplants

Dr. Keesha Ewers understands the connection between childhood trauma PCOS. In her work, she helps women reverse autoimmune disease, heal their childhood trauma, and make friends with the women they see in the mirror. During our interview, she breaks down how to go processing childhood trauma in order to begin healing your chronic illness. Her five step approach helps patients move from batting themselves mentally and physically to finding peace and calm. Listen in (or read the transcript) she shares her process and a helpful tool to get through our most stressful moments.

One of my favorite things to do is directly answer PCOS Divas’ questions. Recently, I took a survey of what Divas would like to know, and I have answered the most commonly asked here, in this podcast. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss topics such as the “ideal” PCOS diet, signs & symptoms no one talks about, chiropractic benefits, PCOS-friendly alcohol, supplement choices, and herbs to replace Clomid, to name just a few.

Has your doctor spoken with you about taking progesterone? Are you entering menopause and considering natural hormone replacement therapy? Dr. Anu Arasu specializes in treating a variety of hormonal imbalances with bioidentical hormones and a holistic, functional medicine approach. We discuss her approach to hormonal replacement therapy for women with PCOS and much more. - Connection between inflammation, weight gain, and hormones - Suggested tests to get to the root of your hormonal imbalance - Provera vs. non-synthetic option - The role of cortisol (especially in lean PCOS) - When to sleep

If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, you may have been told, "It’s going to be very difficult for you to have children," or even, "You won't have children." Dr. Mark Trolice is here to tell you that is not necessarily true. Dr. Trolice is the Director of Fertility Care at the IVF Center in Winter Park, Florida, and is a double board-certified doctor in reproductive endocrinology and fertility as well as an OB/GYN. He spends a lot of time advocating for women with PCOS on a national level as well as helping them to conceive and have healthy pregnancies. On this podcast, we discuss fertility challenges for women with PCOS and how to overcome them. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Causes of PCOS and criteria for PCOS diagnosis - Why you have excess hair growth and when to consider electrolysis or laser hair removal - Things to consider (other than PCOS) if you are having trouble conceiving - What to do before you try to get pregnant Letrozole vs. Clomid - Pros and cons of ovarian drilling - Special considerations for women with PCOS undergoing IVF

PCOS and acne go hand-in-hand. As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michelle Jeffries is often the first doctor to pick up on the signs and symptoms of PCOS and start making the connection. Her integrative approach is a refreshing and effective method for treating acne and healing a patient’s mind, body, and spirit. In this podcast, she shares her practical advice for getting to the root of your acne (usually hormones, inflammation, stress, products, or sleep) and working with your body to calm it. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - the 3 foods to eliminate first - products & supplements specifically for acne - practices & supplements to reduce stress - treatment for deep cystic acne (hidradenitis suppurativa) - what to do about acne scarring

If you have PCOS and are estrogen dominant, you struggle with symptoms like acne, hair loss, hair growth, irregular cycles, irritability, storing fat around your hips and your thighs, thyroid nodules, estrogenic cancers, fibrocystic breasts, very sore or lumpy breasts, bloating, PMS, anovulation, mood swings, fibroids- the list goes on. Sound familiar? Magdalena Wszelaki can help. She brings to life the idea of food as medicine and offers simple, real-world/real-food solutions to estrogen dominance and other hormonal imbalance issues. Estrogen imbalance plays a major role in PCOS, so this is a podcast episode not to be missed. Listen (or read the transcript below) as we discuss: - The reason estrogen dominance is common in women with PCOS - Symptoms and tests for measuring levels of estrogen (including DUTCH, estrogen metabolite, and saliva tests) - Impact of alcohol on estrogen - 3 simple things to do to clean up your gut microbiome & balance estrogen - The rock star food for reducing estrogen and more

PCOS expert and integrative physician, Dr. Felice Gersh has published a brilliant new book called “PCOS S.O.S., A Gynecologist's Lifeline to Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones, and Happiness”. It is best described as a complete guide addressing the symptoms of PCOS and how women with the disorder can lead happy and healthier lives. Dr. Gersh is dedicated to educating women and health care providers about how to best discover and treat the underlying causes of PCOS. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss her book and much more including: - The family connection of PCOS - Why PCOS is on the rise - Impact of sleep, timed eating, fitness, and stress - Importance of regulating light and the circadian rhythm - How birth control changes a woman’s circadian rhythm

Sasha Ottey is at the forefront of PCOS advocacy. She and her non-profit organization, PCOS Challenge, lead the way in furthering the causes of research funding, patient and doctor education, and community awareness. If you are wondering what is happening in the world of PCOS and how to get involved in a large or small way, tune in as we discuss: - PCOS Challenge’s mission and offerings - The PCOS Diva/PCOS Challenge Confidence Grant and a new one coming soon - Advocacy Day in Washington DC & how to be involved there or at home - Opportunities to get involved and volunteer for PCOS Challenge - Upcoming events in cities around the U.S. including PCOS -Awareness Weekend on September 20th in Orlando

For women trying to balance hormones with PCOS, the advice is typically to eat less and exercise more. Not only is that not particularly clear or helpful, it isn’t necessarily true. Since we struggle with both insulin resistance and inflammation, we need to be especially careful about the exercise and PCOS-friendly diet we choose. Dr. Brooke Kalanick offers practical advice on how to balance your hormones in a realistic and sustainable way. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Her favorite exercise for improving insulin sensitivity - How cortisol effects our hormones and the signs of it being too high or low - The "hormone hierarchy" to follow when choosing where to begin - Cautions for long-term Paleo diet - Role of simple electrolytes in healing

There are a lot of people out there willing to tell you the best diet for PCOS. Many of them are well meaning, telling the story of what worked for them. As a result, there is a lot of confusion. Should we all eat Keto or vegan? Try intermittent fasting, low carb, no carb? The truth is this: There Is No Best PCOS Diet. It is entirely individual. Registered Dietician Martha McKittrick explains why that is true and the steps you can take to find the diet that works for you. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - 4 things just as (or more) important than diet - The diet that will help you find a diet - Role of the gut microbiome & why it may dictate your diet - Tips and tricks to figure out what works best for you - Exercise that we all need to do

I admit, acupuncture was one of my last resort therapies when I was really struggling with PCOS. I had tried countless pharmaceuticals and diets, but when I went to acupuncture, I saw a real difference. Dr. Farrar Duro practices reproductive acupuncture and shares some of the most common mistakes women make when living with PCOS. Tune in as we discuss those mistakes as well as: - What to ask your doctor about your labs and treatment options - The question to ask before you start any diet - How Chinese medicine and acupuncture can help PCOS symptoms - Resource for finding an acupuncturist

One of the most common and frustrating symptoms of PCOS is fatigue. We're tired. We have no energy. Relief is here! Karen Deichmann shares her secrets for boosting energy and what we can do to flip the switch when we're feeling drained. She identifies 5 major sources of energy and explains in simple terms how to amplify them so we can thrive each day. Her practical visualizations, tips and tricks will change how you move through your day and life.

"The most transformative thing that you and I and everybody else in the world can do for our brain health is exercise. It ignites all the key neurotransmitters in our brain. These neurotransmitters are related to our depression, to our sense of accomplishment, to our concentration, to our focus." - Maria Hortsmann60% of women with PCOS have some mood-related disorder. Maria Hortsmann has your magic pill - exercise. Before you roll your eyes and move on, listen as she explains the neurological connection between your movement and neurological activity. She offers straight forward advice about getting and staying motivated, and how to ignite the power of your hormones and neurotransmitters to combat depression, anxiety, and more. - Why you resist exercise and how to overcome it - Exercise to mood/ mental health connection -Best activities to kind of achieve mental health benefit - Best use of anti-depressants - Overcoming gym anxiety (and whether you need a gym at all)

“Women with PCOS definitely have more of an uphill battle than the average person who's perfectly healthy, but it's perfectly possible to be extremely healthy with PCOS and to have normal levels of most hormones and neurotransmitters.” -Ari Whitten Overwhelming fatigue is one of the really troubling symptoms for many of us with PCOS. In fact, roughly 20 to 40% of the general population is dealing with mild to moderate chronic fatigue. Ari Whitten is a well-known expert on fatigue and how to overcome it. He offers information and advice that we aren’t getting from our doctors. His insights into the true root causes of fatigue and practical tips on how to boost your energy will help you reclaim your life! Listen in as we discuss: -Cortisol, fatigue, and PCOS -What’s really causing your fatigue -Circadian rhythm and it impact on … everything -The surprise bonus functions of melatonin -Quick tips for blood sugar regulation

Did you know that women with PCOS are three times more likely to have an autoimmune version of thyroid disease called Hashimoto's Thyroidosis? And many of the symptoms and remedies overlap closely with PCOS. Dr. Izabella Wentz is an internationally acclaimed thyroid specialist and licensed pharmacist who has dedicated her career to addressing the root causes of autoimmune thyroid disease. She joins the podcast to discuss how food can be used as medicine and much more. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - the symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroidosis - thyroid labs to request and why TSH test is not sufficient - practical tips to advocate for yourself at the doctor's office - impact of specific foods on symptoms

"If you really want to experience the health benefits, you're drinking it at least once a day, possibly three to 10 times a day. When you're consuming something in that quantity, and with that regularity, then the purity becomes as important as the purity of your water." - Simon Cheng The research is clear, tea is strong medicine. I use tea to lessen anxiety and balance my blood sugar, but that’s just the tip of iceberg. Tea expert, Simon Cheng shares his remarkable story of healing as well as his wisdom about medicinal uses for tea. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:Tea and metabolism, insulin resistance, blood sugar issues, stress, appetite suppression, and gut/digestive healthDifference between caffeine in tea vs. coffeeIntermittent fasting teaWhy the quality of your tea matters (a lot)

If you are a woman with PCOS and/or you're using hormonal birth control, listen in (or read the transcript) because this podcast is for you. Dr. Jolene Brighten is the leading expert in post-birth control syndrome and the long-term side effects associated with hormonal contraceptives. She’s also the author of a brand-new book, Beyond the Pill. While we both agree that it is a woman's right to take the birth control pill, it is also her right to understand how to take care of her body while she takes it, what those potential side effects are, and what she should look out for. Listen in and be educated and empowered! Why doctors fail to connect symptoms like gas, bloating, depression, anxiety, acne, yeast infections, any other number of signs and symptoms to birth control. Nutrients you must supplement to reduce your risk of heart disease and neurological issues Baseline lab tests to have done before, during, and after taking the pill Why we have high rates of gall bladder issues How and when to detox The impact on your gut and how to repair it

Too stressed and busy for self-care? When we don't take time for self-care, our to-do list that might have taken us 5 hours before may take us 8 or 9. That stress is actually slowing us down. Worse, women with PCOS are much more sensitive to stress, and as a result, our cortisol levels are elevated, impacting our sex drive, fertility, immunity, inflammation, anxiety, and much more. Emily Fletcher has reframed meditation as a performance and productivity tool, and her new book, Stress Less, Accomplish More, goes deeply into the neuroscience of why stress makes us stupid, why stress is making us sick, and why stress is slowing us down. Listen in and learn about her 3 Ms: mindfulness, meditation, and manifesting

Many women with PCOS suffer with digestion issues like IBS, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. In this podcast, Dr. Marisol offers simple solutions for digestion issues that aggravate our PCOS and make us feel crummy. Her 5-step solution and suggestions for “micro-maneuvers” will help alleviate symptoms by getting to the root of the problem. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: What is the perfect poo? What it means if you’re a hyper-wiper or your poo is very smelly Why the birth control pill and metformin damage your gut and what to do about it How fixing your gut may make getting pregnant easier The impact of stress on digestion

In this episode, we discuss one of my favorite things, using essential oils to soothe PCOS symptoms, with one of my favorite people, inspirational doctor and best-selling author, Dr. Mariza Snyder. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we take a deep dive into essential oils for managing PCOS including suggested blends to: Manage hormones Morning ritual/wake up Elevate mood Reduce fatigue Energize Reduce stress Control sugar cravings and Mariza’s “superwoman blend”

Like any other vital sign, your menstrual cycle is an indicator of your overall health. If your cycle is falling outside of normal parameters on a regular, consistent basis, then that is a sign of something very specific happening health wise. Tracking my cycles was actually how I found out that I had PCOS. Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, certified fertility educator and holistic reproductive health practitioner, explains how to monitor this critical vital sign and what your pattern might be telling you. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: the menstrual cycle as a diagnostic tool what a “normal cycle” looks like how thyroid issues affect your cycle What you should know if you’re on the pill light exposure’s impact on your cycle the lowdown on toxicity and menstrual products

“The underlying mission of PCOS Diva, isn't just to help women thrive with PCOS and reclaim their fertility, femininity, health, and happiness. It's to help women move beyond the pain and struggle of PCOS, so they can live the life that they were meant to live, and do the work that they were meant to do in this world without PCOS holding them back.” In this, my 100th PCOS Diva podcast, we turn the tables. My husband, Cliff Medling, interviews me about my 10-year journey with PCOS Diva. If you’ve ever been curious about how PCOS Diva began, what my typical day is like, or what’s coming next...

We're taking supplements, exercising, working on stress reduction, and eating clean. So where do essential oils fit in to our PCOS lifestyle? I use them as a part of my daily regimen. Research shows that oils can help with everything from insulin and blood sugar control to hormone balance, stress reduction, and even help decrease the cortisol that's prevalent with PCOS women. Essential oils can also help with other common PCOS symptoms such as GI inflammation, candida, yeast, anxiety, and depression. I invited Dr. Meaghan Kirschling to explain some of the basics. Listen as she explains: How to choose the right oils and dosages for your symptoms How to identify a well-made pure essential oil When and how to choose a carrier oil Safe and effective methods for using oils

I cannot overemphasize the importance of thorough lab work. The more information you have, the better decisions you will make, the better questions you will ask, the better care you can demand. On today’s podcast, Dr. Alan Hopkins discusses labs highly recommended for women with PCOS that you doctor may not have mentioned and explains to gravity of the ones they probably have already recommended. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: the basic PCOS labs labs to request if you take metformin importance of testing for the MTHFR genetic mutation, vitamin D, inflammation markers, and food sensitivity testing tests to request for thyroid or if planning a pregnancy

Your 2019 mantra: “My health practitioners are absolutely important. They're integral to my journey. But I'm at the head of this helm.” – Melissa Christie Will 2019 be your year? Melissa Christie shares practical wisdom and tools to help make this the year you see real improvement in your positivity and PCOS symptoms. It’s all about planning, tracking, and being mindful. Make this the year you improve your relationship with your body. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - Her unique PCOS journey - Tricks for managing bad habits & building sustainable positive ones - Harnessing the power of reflection with an End of Year assessment - The 2019 PCOS Day Planner designed to help women with PCOS manage, track, understand, and take ownership of their health

Dr. Becky Campbell is a board-certified doctor of natural medicine with expertise in functional medicine and clinical nutrition. Her new book, "The 30-Day Thyroid Reset Plan" has great information for women with PCOS whether you have thyroid issues or not. Listen in as we discuss the 7 triggers that are keeping you sick. Get ready for an “ah-ha” moment or two as she connects the dots. The leaky gut- thyroid link What to do before checking for food sensitivities The stress/sleep disruption/ insulin resistance/ inflammation connection Suggested tests to tailor treatment

With the holidays upon us, I wanted to chat with nutrition and mood expert, Dr. Corey Schuler to see if he had some tips for us on how to manage Holiday sugar cravings and the Winter Blues. As I expected, he had some wonderful, practical ways to help keep cravings at bay and fend off depression and anxiety. Listen to the 30 minute interview below for all of the details!

Nicole Jardim is one of my favorite menstruation experts and co-host of The Period Party, a podcast that actually makes this sometimes-tough topic fun! Nicole joined the podcast today to break down Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) for us and answer the question, “Are Women with PCOS more likely to have PMS?” Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss this plus: the root causes of PMS the impact of stress, diet, nutrient deficiency, and environmental toxins relationship to blood sugar instability, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia how to lessen symptoms possible triggers fixes including what to eat and HOW to eat it

Every woman has been touched by breast cancer. It may be you or someone you know or love, but all of us understand, on some level, the physical, emotional, and spiritual impact of the disease. Women with PCOS do not have a higher risk of breast cancer than our peers, though we do have a slightly higher risk of endometrial cancer. Carol Lourie has dedicated her professional life to supporting women and their health. Now, she has focused her efforts on managing cancer in a functional way. Listen (or read the transcript) as we discuss: preparing yourself, your family, and your community for treatment nutrition for prevention, preparation, treatment, and recovery managing side effects setting the right mindset

Dr. Fiona McCullouch is one of my go-to naturopathic doctors when it comes to PCOS. Not only is her fantastic book, 8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS, a “mini-encyclopedia” of PCOS, she is up-to-date on PCOS-related research. In this podcast episode, we discuss the latest PCOS news and topics including: The anti-müllerian hormone study- is there a PCOS cure? New research on the connections between mood, depression, and inflammation Hyperthermia and the science behind why exercise improves our mood Why women with insulin resistance need more selenium Pros and cons of bariatric surgery and hysterectomy for PCOS

Most women with PCOS are overweight, but it is not necessary to be overweight to have a PCOS diagnosis. Many of us have a version of the syndrome called Lean PCOS. We share all the other symptoms but are often overlooked when doctors are searching for the root of our symptoms. Listen in as lean cyster Dr. Laura Dimler Radziwon and I discuss our experiences with Lean PCOS and: Androgen excess, insulin balance, and acne The journey to find a diagnosis The importance of exercise beyond weight loss Managing perfectionism in diet, exercise, and everything else How to balance stress, anxiety, mood disorders, and hormones

Women who are seeking a diagnosis for PCOS will, on average, see two to three doctors before they get a diagnosis. Even after diagnosis, women with PCOS are simply told to lose weight, take a pill, and go on their way. That’s not ok. We deserve better care. Our daughters, sisters, and friends deserve better treatment. Ashley Levinson is a well-known PCOS advocate and joins the podcast to talk about the challenges facing women with PCOS and how we all can advocate for better research and education. Listen as we discuss: - Issues such as the importance of early diagnosis and post-pill syndrome - Self-advocacy at the doctor - How to begin advocating & get involved - PCOS Awareness Month & World PCOS Day

Many women with PCOS have a combative relationship with their body and PCOS. We buy into the calories-in/calories-out myth and attempt to punish our bodies with exercise. PCOS trainer, Erika Volk visits the podcast to bust myths around PCOS and exercise as well as explain the far-reaching (and unexpected) benefits. Listen in as we discuss: - Why exercise and strength training balance your blood sugar - Exercising to regulate appetite, mood, and menstrual cycles, balance hormones, and more - Why all calories are not created equal - How you should feel after a workout - Advice for athletes who are training - Pregnancy and postpartum fitness

Dental health is clearly linked to PCOS and general health. In fact, the mouth is the first point that many issues start to present themselves. Bleeding gums, for instance, is one of the first signs of potential hormone and microbiome changes. Your mouth even communicates what type of vitamin deficiencies you may have. Dr. Steven Lin is on a mission to educate people about the connection between dental health and their overall wellbeing. Listen in as we discuss: The connection between tooth decay & gum disease and digestive, immunity, and hormone problems, as well as Alzheimer's disease and dementia The hierarchy of nutrients that your body uses and what you may be lacking Vitamin D deficiency and its cascading effects The role of the microbiome in your dental health and vice versa The problem with mouthwash How sleep fits into your dental and overall health picture

“I just felt like something was wrong with me. I didn't realize there's something wrong with the rules and the process that I was following. It just felt like I was flawed and here I was trying to lose weight and the only thing I was losing was self-worth and self-confidence.” -Cassie Bjork Many dietitians are telling you what Coke (and other big food corporations) want you to hear. It’s not necessarily their fault. Outdated interpretations of unscientific data set many of the diet standards we are taught from childhood. Cassie Bjork is not your average dietitian. She is a globally recognized industry leader and one of my go-to experts for weight loss. In this podcast she explains why low fat, low carb, calorie counting diets and exhausting work-outs are not helping you lose weight. It’s time to consider the big picture including what you eat, thyroid, stress, and sleep too. Listen (or read the transcript) as we discuss: Questions to ask your dietitian The physical and emotional power of surrender Why counting calories doesn’t work Why you must eat fat the truth about cholesterol

Endometriosis and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) share overlapping symptoms and are sometimes confused. In this podcast, endometriosis expert, Melissa Turner clears up the confusion and explains the symptoms of endometriosis, how to get a diagnosis, and possible paths to healing. Listen in as we also discuss: - Three areas to focus on when treating endometriosis naturally - Effectiveness of surgery - Her REACH technique of managing endometriosis - Nutrients you may be missing

The birth control pill is the standard prescription when a woman is diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, typically without outlining the risks posed specifically for us. For many, it manages to mask PCOS symptoms. For others, the side effects are immediately intolerable. For all, symptoms resume when we must stop taking it. Worse, many struggle with Post Birth Control Pill Syndrome. So, what can we do? Dr. Jolene Brighten and I discuss this and much more in this podcast. Listen in or read the transcript. - What is Post Pill Syndrome and what we can do about it? - Testing to have done while on the pill - Often undisclosed risks of the pill including: thyroid issues, adrenals, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, leaky gut, food sensitivities, anxiety, blood clots, yeast infections, and heightened risk of suicide - Contraceptive alternatives for women with PCOS - Why an orgasm a week is good for your health

“We are not what we eat. We are what our bodies can do with what we eat.” - Andrea Nakayama Every person has unique biology and must be treated as such. Andrea Nakayama is a rock star in the field of functional nutrition. She teaches thousands of practitioners and patients a year how to use the principles of functional nutrition to personalize diet and healthcare and heal with sustainable results. In this podcast, Andrea explains functional nutrition, its benefits, and how you can get started. Andrea Nakayama is a functional nutritionist and educator leading thousands of clients, students, and practitioners around the world in a revolution reclaiming ownership over one's own health. In the curriculum of Functional Nutrition Lab, her online school for practitioners, Andrea teaches the science and art of the functional nutrition practice through the lens of where food meets physiology. Within her own clinic, Andrea and her team of nutritionists work with the chronic ailments most providers pass over, and she is regularly consulted as the nutrition expert for the toughest clinical cases in the practices of world-renowned doctors.

We all know that PCOS impacts the lives of the women who have it. Countless studies (and our own experience) have proven that. In this podcast, Dr. Rashmi Kudesia explains the impact of PCOS on our quality of life in five main interrelated areas: infertility, abnormal uterine bleeding or irregular periods, extra body or facial hair, weight issues, and emotional health and offers steps we can take to get on track both mentally and physically. Listen as we also discuss: - Critical importance of sleep quality - Tips on how to effectively advocate for yourself or your daughter - Pros and cons of diagnosing adolescents - What she says to adolescents who may have PCOS - Why related diagnoses (thyroid, sleep apnea, etc.) are often missed in women with PCOS - The counsel she offers her own patients to improve their quality of life

What exactly is a ketogenic (keto) diet and why do people feel so strongly one way or the other about it? In this podcast, we discuss the pros and cons of keto diets, specifically for women with PCOS. Martha McKittrick reviews the current research, offers sage advice, and answers questions women commonly ask me about keto such as: How is keto different from a low-carb diet? Who should avoid keto and who should try it? Is it sustainable? Does keto dieting work for fertility? What is the keto flu? What should I know/do before I try it?

“The why is equally important because once you understand what goes on in the body and how food can impact the various parts of our body, that impact then the hormones, you are much more motivated to start making changes.” - Magdalena Wszelaki Magdalena Wszelaki is one of my favorite podcast guests and the author of the brand-new book, Cooking for Hormone Balance. She rejoins the podcast to discuss her “three-legged stool approach" to hormonal balance and offer practical advice on how to use foods (including herbs) to manage your overall health as well as specific symptoms. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: - foods to choose for gut health and hormone balance - estrogen dominance symptoms and healing - PMS & why it’s not normal - risks of removing your gallbladder - coffee consumption and alternatives

“75 percent of women report disordered eating behaviors or symptoms consistent with eating disorders; so, three out of four have an unhealthy relationship with food or their bodies” -University of North Carolina Medical School Food is often at the center of discussions involving PCOS. It should come as no surprise that eating disorders are prevalent among those of us living with the syndrome. Carrie Forrest understands the struggle. Listen (or read the transcript) as she shares her story of recovery as well as some of the coping and healing mechanisms she has employed. Among other things, we discuss: Possible triggers of eating disorders Why extreme diets (Keto, etc.) are possible red flags Healing your relationship with yourself Perfectionism and control Finding a sustainable way of eating (and indulging) and exercising to improve your quality of life

PCOS directly or indirectly impacts all of your relationships. When you’re talking about romantic relationships, whether dating or committed, issues frequently come up around libido, infertility, self-image, depression, lifestyle, and self-care. From initial conversations to advocating for yourself when making diet and lifestyle changes, Dr. Gretchen Kubacky, the “PCOS Psychologist,” has useful advice. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: Tips for getting your partner on board with your upgraded diet and lifestyle plan Learning to be proactive in your self-care How dating can help set expectations that support your health Impact of emotional trauma and stress on physical well-being

Lara Briden’s book, the Period Repair Manual, is a manifesto of natural treatment for better hormones and better periods. I recommend it all the time, so I am thrilled to have her on the podcast. Dr. Briden provides practical solutions using nutrition, supplements, and natural hormones. We both agree that ovulation matters for all women; it's not just about making babies. So, listen as we discuss: Why a period on the birth control pill is not a true period Diagnosis and misdiagnosis of PCOS Why cutting carbs might not help Why doctors in Australia may not (and should not) diagnose a teenager with PCOS Pain is not a symptom of PCOS Her protocol for each type of PCOS

Aimee Raupp and I agree- fertility isn't an on/off switch. It’s a spectrum. You might have lower fertility at certain times in your life, but it's improvable. It's changeable. It's not broken. You can heal. While there are many factors at play, we know that your thoughts not only impact your behavior, neuroscience demonstrates that our thoughts actually affect our neurochemistry. So, what we think can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. In her latest book, Body Belief, Aimee outlines 3 things you must do to heal and much, much more. Listen to today’s podcast (or read the transcript) as we discuss: Becoming wellness-focused vs. illness-focused Mindsets that keep us from thriving and healing our bodies Genetics vs. epigenetics Her trick to being in the moment and grounded

“It's very difficult to recover from PCOS with our standard societal approach, and it's very easy to feel isolated and alone, and then all these negative self-talk voices come in and you have a lot of shame and, "Why don't I look like this?", "Why can't I do that?" PCOS does not have to be a horrible sentence. It's a complex illness, but you absolutely can find the right tools and recover your health.” – Carol Lourie Carol Lourie takes a holistic approach when treating her patients with PCOS. I love her visualization of the syndrome, comparing it to spokes on a wheel. There is the insulin resistance spoke, the hormone imbalance spoke, the emotional spoke, and so many more. Effective treatment of PCOS cannot be accomplished with just a pill. In order to truly heal PCOS, we must approach it from a natural and holistic perspective. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss: Her integrative method to managing blood sugar Laser v. electrolysis When you should fire your doctor Best breakfast and the trouble with coffee Intermittent fasting Benefits of acupuncture & homeopathy

Anxiety is something with which many women with PCOS struggle. Lifestyle and food choices can help alleviate it. But if your diet is good, you exercise, and you’re doing everything “right” and still struggling with anxiety, you may need to look deeper. Megan Buer, is an author and founder of Harmony Restored, a company focused on helping individuals heal from the stress that is at the root of their physical and emotional pain. She teaches people to harness the power of mindset and working through emotions while listening to their body’s signals. Listen in and see if this is the key to resolving your anxiety.

My daughter, Lila, is 9 years old, and I am starting to think more about whether she too will have PCOS. I hear from distraught mothers almost every day. Their daughter has been diagnosed, they are not sure how to help. My podcast guest today was in the same situation not long ago. I had the privilege to coach Linda Kochiu and her daughter, Sarah, through the initial stages of healing her PCOS. Sarah is now a thriving college student. Listen in (or read the transcript) and hear about their journey, learn from their story, and know there is hope and you’re not alone. Among other things, we discuss: Talking to friends about PCOS and lifestyle changes The mindset shift that changed everything Tricks for eating PCOS friendly foods at restaurants and college How lifestyle and diet changes affected the family Supplements that work for Sarah Finding the right exercise balance Managing stress The importance of having a supportive partner/mother

"Core to making sure that you get the care that you need and deserve is to truly embrace that you are your own advocate for your care and ensuring that you have the right care team who share your commitment to always pushing the envelope and making sure that you're at the forefront of a better understanding of the technologies, tests, and treatments that can be out in the world and really exploring and understanding the importance of finding that right fit.” -Angie Lee, Chief Product Officer, Celmatix The Fertilome test is the world's first multi-gene panel designed specifically to help women understand what their genetic signature may be saying about their reproductive health. It looks at specific markers or variants in your genes associated with common reproductive conditions, including PCOS, endometriosis, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, and more. These are all conditions that we know can have an effect on fertility and family building in the short and long term. The mission is to give women more complete information so they gain proactive control over their fertility journey. I spoke with two women at the forefront of this new test, Angie Lee and Indrani Chatterjee. Listen in as we discuss: The Fertilome test and how it works Why the genetic component important The difference between Fertilome’s test and others like 23andMe How the Fertilome test can help with the fertility journey Tips for finding the right doctor and the importance of a good fit

January 14, 2018 Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of PCOS. In this podcast, fatigue expert Dr. Evan Hirsch outlines the 15 underlying causes and offers practical advice on what you can do to fix your fatigue and start feeling energized. The relationship between hormones and sleep The role of nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, b12, vitamin D) Labs to request that get to the root of your fatigue The role of emotions and mindset.

November 28, 2017 PCOS is complicated and a lot of women with PCOS have other things. They have thyroid issues, Hashimoto’s, or they have other autoimmune, or they have food intolerances, or just other stuff that ties into the PCOS or is worsening the PCOS, and they just need somebody who can orchestrate and dig deep.” – Dr. Carrie Jones It is important for women with a PCOS diagnosis to find the root of their PCOS symptoms. Only then can you find true, lasting relief. PCOS is a broad diagnosis, and testing beyond the basic blood and ultrasound tests is necessary to begin healing your PCOS in a sustainable way. Dr. Carrie Jones joined the podcast this week to recommend the tests we should consider and offers some helpful, practical advice on relieving our symptoms. Listen as we discuss: cutting edge testing options tips for balancing cortisol and getting better sleep recommended lifestyle changes and supplements how stress and cortisol impact other hormones like progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid easy stress busters the DUTCH test and how it can help.

November 6, 2017 Discoveries in quantum physics can be applied to nutrition, wellness, medicine, and the helping professions such as psychotherapy. Understanding vibrational frequency is fundamental to being happy and supercharged in your health, your work, and your relationships. You are vibrating right now. So is your liver, and your brain. So is whoever is sitting next to you. The words you speak have vibration. The food you eat. On the podcast today, Robyn Openshaw explains the power of vibration for women with PCOS. There is a vibrational connection around your food, your thoughts, the people that you spend time with. Harness that power, and you can truly thrive! I love this hopeful message about gaining positivity and control. Listen in as we discuss: Why diet fads like Paleo and Keto only kind-of work The principle of quantum physics which can help you begin to heal in this moment How to choose the right foods for the short and long term Her “6 quick things” routine to boost your vibe.

October 30, 2017 You have sugar cravings, and you often give in to them. Good news- there is a reason. It isn’t that you lack willpower, your body is betraying you, or that you are a weak person. It means something in your body is out of balance, either emotionally or physically. Many, many women with PCOS struggle with disordered eating- be it binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, or something else. Add to that the 43% of women who eat to manage emotion, and you have a real problem. Emotional eating expert and clinical nutritionist, Stephanie Dodier, visited the podcast to discuss: How to identify the source of your cravings Tools for managing cravings when they hit Why no amount of will power is going to help you move beyond poor blood sugar regulation The roles of nutritional deficiency and microbiome imbalances in cravings.

October 27, 2017 “Every woman should understand the short and long-term side effects, risks, and recovery. Otherwise, that isn’t informed consent.” -Dr. Poppy Daniels The Depo shot is a widely prescribed hormonal birth control which comes with a litany of possible life altering side effects that are not typically explained to patients before they begin taking the drug. One of my favorite podcast guests, Dr. Poppy, returns to explain the dangers as outlined in her book, The Dangers of Depo: The World’s Most Dangerous Birth Control. Even if you’re not on or considering Depo, listen in to learn more about the risks of Depo and gain a better understanding of hormonal birth control and other options. Did you know? Depo increases risk of: HIV, bone loss, immune system suppression, decreased estrogen, increased testosterone, worsened insulin resistance, hypertension, depression, and breast cancer Depo is a steroid and carries all of the steroid side effects.

October 18, 2017 “What else can we be doing to tap into our self-healing capabilities? We can’t just accept and hand over this diagnosis that the doctor gives us. There’s so much more we can be doing that we have control over.” –Joanne Verkuilen- founder and creator of Circle and Bloom Your mind is a powerful thing. The science behind the mind-body connection and how your thinking generates physical response in the body is at the center of Circle and Bloom’s mission and programs. Joanne Verkuilen, founder and creator of Circle and Bloom joined the podcast to discuss how meditation and visualization work and how we can tap into it to help manage our PCOS, fertility, and much more. Self-care like this is critical to living like a PCOS Diva.

September 21, 2017 “Herbs can play a beautiful role of really amplifying and speeding up the healing process so quickly.” My dear friend, health coach Magdalena Wszelaki shares some of her favorite herbs and spices with us and explains how they can help us heal our PCOS and balance hormones. Cinnamon is popular for managing sugar levels, but what type is best and how much do you use? Matcha Tea offers a sustained boost to your energy levels. What’s the best way to prepare it? Chasteberry (Vitex) is popular for restoring ovulation and regulating your luteal phase, but there are some who should avoid it.

September 8, 2017 I receive questions almost every day about thyroid disease & PCOS. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and other thyroid issues are very common in women with PCOS, and many of us don’t even know we have it because it can take years to show up on a blood test. Hashimoto’s expert Shannon Garrett, explains that Hashimoto’s is a 3-legged stool and how you must balance thyroid, adrenal glands, and sex hormones to truly begin healing. Do you have Hashimoto’s? Listen in as we discuss: The connection of inflammation to Hashimoto’s and PCOS Lesser recognized symptoms of low level chronic inflammation: acid reflux or heartburn, chronic acne, chronic dry eye, recurrent urinary tract infections, PCOS, dermatitis or periodontal disease. Classic low thyroid symptoms like fatigue that worsens over time, weight loss resistance, brain fog, skin change conditions (like scaly skin), or losing hair. What is the best kind of diet for Hashimoto’s (keto? AIP, PCOS Diva)? Role of stress management & proven techniques The 2-3 supplements you should be taking.

August 29, 2017 If you regularly follow PCOS Diva, you know I love the OvuSense monitor. I am all for anything that puts knowledge and power in a woman’s own hands. Recently, I invited Rob Milnes, CEO of Fertility Focus which produces OvuSense, to the podcast to discuss exactly how OvuSense works and why women with PCOS should be especially interested (whether we are TTC or not). Rob has a great way of explaining, in simple terms, the science behind the role of progesterone and the luteal phase in a woman’s cycle as well as exactly how the OvuSense monitor works. He clearly broke down: OvuSense monitor system vs. ovulation predictor kits, the Creighton model, basal body temp. charting or other apps Why OvuSense can have a 96% accuracy rate when predicting ovulation and not give false positives like other products How OvuSense can help diagnose PCOS How to use OvuSense to monitor the effects of supplements and pharmaceuticals on your cycle and health The new pricing structure.

August 22, 2017 Did you know that only .0.1% of the National Institute of Health budget goes to PCOS research despite being the #1 hormone syndrome in women? Two major events are happening in the world of PCOS! Sasha Ottey, founder of PCOS Challenge, a leading patient support and advocacy group visited the podcast to share the news | Read More on PCOS Diva

July 27, 2017 “Think of PCOS symptoms like the rays of the sun. They’re all peripheral to that one pivotal central situation, which is your hormone imbalance.” -Dr. Margarita Ochoa-Maya, MD Dr. Margarita Ochoa-Maya, MD is a functional endocrinologist, author, PCOS Diva, and personal friend of mine. She joins the podcast to explain why a functional integrative approach to PCOS can be the most effective treatment. If you are looking for a way to treat PCOS which considers your type of PCOS and aims to treat the cause instead of only individual symptoms, listen in as we discuss: The difference between an endocrinologist and a functional integrative approach The role of biology and micro and macro nutrient levels Facilitating the elimination of excess hormones which can relieve acne, hair loss, and more Emotional and spiritual health as an important component of biological health How to develop the best doctor patient relationship.

May 18, 2017 Inflammation is at the heart of many of your PCOS symptoms regardless of your body weight. Diet and lifestyle can play an important role in either increasing or decreasing inflammation. Today’s podcast guest, well-known registered dietician Martha McKittrick, shares her approach to help you tame the flames of inflammation with your diet and lifestyle choices. She offers practical and specific nutrition and lifestyle tips to decrease inflammation as well as info about what tests you should request for inflammation indicators and what you should consider when exercising. You will want to take notes on this one. Grab a pen. Listen as we discuss: what causes inflammation (specific foods and lifestyle choices) top lifestyle tips to help decrease inflammation suggestions for an anti-inflammatory diet food sensitivity testing options.

April 14, 2017 Women with PCOS typically have low progesterone. Symptoms include absent, irregular or very heavy or long periods. Unfortunately, it also increases the risk of miscarriage. Whether you are TTC or not, it is important to get your progesterone balanced. Dr. Poppy joins the podcast today to explain why women with PCOS have low progesterone and what we can do about it. Listen in to this important conversation as we discuss: Why the pill is not a good long term choice for women with PCOS Progestin v. progesterone v. Provera Her pregnancy protocol for progesterone treatment What test you should ask for and when you should take it The connection between progesterone, your thyroid and adrenal glands.

March 30, 2017 For me, it’s not about being on the perfect diet; it’s about tuning in to your body and figuring out what your body needs at this time and what’s not serving it. – Dr. Izabella Wentz Women with PCOS are three times more likely to have Hashimoto’s Disease, a condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid and the most common cause of hypothyroidism. In fact, there is quite a lot of overlap between Hashimoto’s and PCOS (fatigue, weight challenges, changes in brain function, depression, feeling unmotivated, anxiety, panic attacks, constipation, hair loss). Dr. Izabella Wentz has developed an effective protocol that may be helpful to women with PCOS whether they have Hashimoto’s or not. Listen in as we discuss: Symptoms of Hashimoto’s Diesase and labs you should request The role of toxins, adrenals and gut balance in thyroid and overall health The necessity of detoxification and suggestions for liver support Healing foods and the myth of cruciferous veggies Protocol for healing your adrenal and cortisol issues

March 21, 2017 “Every body is a good body, and we have to honor this body that we have. No one ever got anywhere, no one ever got happy, hating it into change. Embrace the body that you have and make it the best body it can be.” – Dr. Brooke Women with PCOS are prone to adrenal fatigue and hormone shifts, making exercise a tricky, though very necessary, thing. I asked Dr. Brooke, a well-known expert on metabolic nutrition, fat loss resistance and fitness to help us navigate the delicate balance between our hormones and exercise. During our conversation, we discuss what your symptoms are trying to tell you about your work-out and how you can best tailor your exercise to your ever-changing hormones (whether due to menopause, PCOS, thyroid issues, or stress). Listen as we talk about: If you love intense training (marathons, CrossFit, etc.), how can you avoid exhaustion and adrenal issues? What testing should we consider for adrenal issues? What are your ACES (appetite cravings, energy & sleep) telling you? Have you reached metabolic adaptation or stagnation?

March 8, 2017 Just like we’re not a victim of our trauma, we’re not a victim of our genetics. We’re not a victim of our circumstances; we actually have the power if we put attention and consider ourselves important enough to heal.” -Dr. Keesha Ewers Low libido is a common concern for women, maybe especially those with PCOS. Why? Dr. Keesha Ewers has researched the topic extensively and developed a theory of 5 root causes. Women with PCOS will almost certainly relate to many of them including “fighting with your body” and feeling it has betrayed you, but it goes much further. As Dr. Keesha says, “What’s in your head goes to your bed.” Listen in as we discuss: PCOS, how it can affect our libidos, and what we can do about it The pill and its impact on libido Five root causes for low libido The biology of stress causing low libido.

March 3, 2017 “Food is medicine, and specific foods are medicine for specific people.” – Dr. Margrit Mikulis As you might expect, I am very careful about the foods I choose. I am living proof that food is medicine. Eliminating inflammatory foods like gluten and dairy made all the difference in healing my PCOS. Inflammation is at the root of many of our PCOS symptoms, and eliminating common irritants can, in some cases, yield almost immediate relief. This summer, I took a food sensitivity test that examined my reaction to 132 foods. The results were surprising, and when I acted upon them, I felt even better! My naturopath, Dr. Margrit Mikulis, understands the link between PCOS, inflammation and diet. Listen as she explains: How food sensitivities increase inflammation in women with PCOS The difference between food sensitivity testing and food allergy testing The correlation between cardiovascular health, gut health and inflammation The difference between food allergies, food sensitivities and food intolerances How to get tested for food sensitivity.

February 1, 2017 “One of the first things about maintaining a sustainable approach towards dealing with PCOS is acknowledging and addressing these inner symptoms and feelings. How can we help the woman feel better about herself and who she is and accept certain realities about her body type and then work toward a healthy lifestyle and see if anything changes, but not think, ‘I have to starve myself skinny.’ That’s not how it works with PCOS.” – Carol Lourie This summer I met a kindred spirit. Carol Lourie is a functional medicine practitioner, naturopath, acupuncturist and homeopath with over 30 years of experience in helping women with PCOS recover using an integrative approach. She and I agree that a combination of a healthy lifestyle and the correct supplements is the way to attend to the PCOS imbalance from the inside out. Listen as we discuss: creating a sustainable, healthy PCOS lifestyle how to approach PCOS with your teenage daughter her recommended diet (& how to eat away from home) her recommended supplements (including the right way to take berberine) how to decrease your inflammatory quotient.

January 12, 2017 “The unexpected solution to self-healing is really about self-awareness and intuition, listening to our body’s messages and our body’s wisdom.” – Dr. Mariza Like many of us, Dr. Mariza Snyder ignored the signs of impending health issues until she literally could no longer get out of bed. She has long since overcome her family lineage of hormone issues and her own lifestyle choices and is truly thriving! Now, Dr. Mariza is a best-selling author, functional medicine doctor, and essential oils expert…among other things. In her practice, she helps women dealing with things like stress, exhaustion, mood issues, weight gain, hormone conditions, headaches, and more bring balance back to their lives. Her path to healing is inspirational, and her advice will get you on the path to healing right away. Listen as we discuss the unexpected solutions to self-healing and: Self-care rituals that invigorate and balance the mind, body and spirit The power of a “joy list” Versatility, benefits and use of matcha tea for PCOS (including for symptoms like hirsutism, hair loss, & acne) How to use essential oils for hormone balance, brain fog, hair loss, hirsutism, acne, exhaustion, sleeplessness and more.

December 1, 2016 “When people are really fed up with chasing their triggers, constantly managing symptoms, and working around their migraines, then they’re ready to work at the root-cause level.” – Erin Knight Erin Knight’s combination of migraine prevention and management techniques centers around getting to the root cause of your migraine. Her approach offers long-term, whole body health and healing. As she says, I know you’re not crazy when you tell me you have not just migraines, but skin issues and everything else.” If you are tired of migraines impacting your earning potential, productivity, and relationships, don’t miss this podcast. Listen as Erin shares: tips for managing migraines without ibuprofen or painkillers recognizing the layers of internal and external stressors which cause your migraines ways to balance your triggers while living your life her best stress reduction techniques (and gadgets)

November 2, 2016 “If you’re listening and you think that the only way to regulate your cycle and induce ovulation is with Clomid or you’ve been told Metformin’s going to do it, I can assure you that for ninety-five percent of you listening, you can do it in a different way that’s more natural.” – Dr. Marc Sklar What can you do to prepare for a healthy pregnancy? One of my favorite fertility experts, Dr. Marc Sklar, is here to share his philosophy, protocols and wisdom. Every woman with PCOS needs to hear what he has to say about finding “your secret recipe,” of your personal combination of diet, exercise, stress reduction and supplementation needs in order to ovulate and maintain a healthy pregnancy. Listen as we discuss: How does your PCOS phenotype impact your treatment plan? Diet & lifestyle protocols for PCOS, especially to avoid gestational diabetes during pregnancy Suggested tests (including for thyroid and the Dutch test) and how to advocate for the right testing Why women who are under stress during their fertile window, have a forty percent less chance of conception Changes to make to avoid pharmaceuticals (Metformin)

October 29, 2016 Every woman experiences hormonal changes in midlife. For women with PCOS, the challenges are magnified because we are at a higher risk of adrenal issues and the cascade of symptoms that result. Dr. Karen Leggett is a women’s midlife health specialist and has joined the podcast to explain the benefits and challenges of being a woman with PCOS during perimenopause and menopause. Listen as she addresses some very common questions: What is estrogen dominance and what are the resulting health risks? Is natural hormone progesterone supplementation a good idea? What are the concerns with the Pill and Provera? What supplements should I consider? Can my diet help reduce estrogen dominance and my risk of breast cancer? Does alcohol affect my estrogen levels?

October 19, 2016 Ovulation Predictor Kits (OPKs) are popular whether a woman is trying to conceive or using them for contraception. Unfortunately, not every woman is able to use OPKs, especially if they have PCOS. Why? Our luteinizing hormone (LH) levels show different patterns than non-POCS women, so the average kit most often gives a false positive/negative. It leads to confusion and frustration. So what can we do? Expert, Kate Davies, joined the podcast to explain the hows and whys of OPKs and fertility monitoring. Listen as we discuss: How to use OPKs to self-advocate at the doctor’s office Alternative methods of fertility monitoring Which kit works where others fail Her favorite mobile apps for tracking fertility How to prevent the act of trying to conceive from becoming mechanical and losing the intimate connection between you and your partner.

October 5, 2016 Acne, particularly cystic acne, plagues many women with PCOS. Robyn Srigley, the Hormone Diva, knows how to help. Her story may seem familiar to you. She treated her persistent acne with everything- birth control pills, Accutane, other pills, creams, antibiotics- never finding a permanent solution. She finally discovered the secret through her practice in holistic nutrition and health coaching. She is here to share her best tips and tricks to treat your hormonal acne. Listen in and learn: The link between stress, cortisol and acne Foods to eat and avoid The roles of gut health and food allergies The difference between jawline acne, facial and body acne Suggested topical remedies, treatments and cleanser | Read More on PCOS Diva

September 30, 2016 The connection between PCOS and mood is absolute. In fact, medical literature suggests that the prevalence of depression in women with PCOS varies between 28 to 64 percent, and anxiety rates range from 34 to 57 percent. Trudy Scott is on a mission to educate and empower women about the healing powers of whole foods and amino acids for eliminating anxiety and emotional eating. If you’ve ever thought, “My depression is so serious, there’s no way that food and nutrients could have an impact. I’m the kind of person who definitely needs medication.” Or if you’ve been told that, “You’re going to have anxiety forever. Here’s some medication. Go to therapy. You just need to manage it.” That’s definitely not the case; it can be completely resolved. Listen in as Trudy explains: What your gut, adrenals, inflammation, intolerances, and diet have to do with anxiety What to eat, what to avoid, and whether vegetarianism is the answer The fast, natural way to manage sugar cravings Dosage and timing of amino acids for managing mood, energy and more What are you missing that causes winter blues? Seasonal Affective Disorder? Perfectionism? Effectively kicking caffeine and sugar addiction.

September 1, 2016 There is no pill that can cure PCOS. Why not? PCOS is a very complex metabolic condition. No two women have exactly the same PCOS symptoms, though there are a few common factors we all share. Dr. Fiona McCulloch, one of my favorite PCOS physicians and thought leaders, has written a new book outlining 8 factors to consider and address in order to best treat your PCOS. Listen in as she explains: the single most important factor in healing PCOS exactly why extremely restrictive diets can never work for women with PCOS what the Insulin Index is and why is it more helpful than the Glycemic Index why women with PCOS are better off without dairy the right way to snack and structure meals & a snack combination to absolutely avoid.

August 7, 2016 There is no one-size-fits-all PCOS diagnosis. “To see everyone with PCOS as having the same condition would be like to see everyone who has a headache as having the same condition,” says Dr. Lara Briden. In her years of clinical experience, she has found 5 types of PCOS, each with unique requirements for treatment. Listen as this renowned expert discusses: The 5 types of PCOS Recommended (and not recommended) supplements or herbs for each type (including peony, licorice, Vitex, berberine, Inositols, selenium, zinc and vitamin D) Foods to avoid Questions for your doctor and the right way to ask them The relationship between PCOS, Hashimoto’s, and Thyroid.

July 14, 2016 Persistent acne is the bane of many women with PCOS. If you believe the ads, there are countless magical products out there which will give you a perfect complexion in 30 days. “It’s pretty preposterous,” says master aesthetician, Valerie Tukey. Val successfully treats many clients with PCOS and finds several common elements, particularly inflammation. Listen in to our conversation as she explains the expected and unexpected (pillowcases & toothpaste!) ways that your pores become clogged as well as: How to find a knowledgeable aesthetician Things that you can do to improve cystic acne 3 supplements she recommends to her clients Foods to avoid if you’re acne prone Is coconut oil the best natural moisturizer alternative?

July 14, 2016 By popular demand… When Dr. Lana Asprey learned that PCOS would keep her from conceiving, she began a journey of research and experimentation that led to 2 healthy children and a protocol for helping other women with PCOS achieve health and fertility. A combination of diet that crowds out inflammatory foods, carefully chosen supplements, and gentle detoxification is the key to her success. Listen in as Dr. Asprey shares about: Her battle with PCOS and candida Liver and gut health and their effect on hormones and estrogen dominance Endocrine disruptors, their impact, and the unexpected sources Recommended tests Epigenetics and using lifestyle to control those factors that might influence our offspring.

July 14, 2016 “You can’t hate yourself happy, and you can’t criticize yourself thin, and you can’t shame yourself healthy. That’s the strategy that so many women are using and it’s important to address the emotional side of weight loss and to take a different approach.” –Jessica Ortner Who am I to take care of myself when so many people depend on me? I hear this all the time. The fact is that self-care is not a reward. It is an essential ingredient to living, to surviving, to having a healthy life. “Tapping” is a technique I use myself of literally tapping with your fingers on acupressure points in order to relax your body and/or change your mindset. It is useful for alleviating cravings, stress, anxiety, and much more. Tapping expert Jessica Ortner stopped by the podcast to explain how tapping can help a woman understand the motivation behind certain behaviors and consciously reprogram her response. Listen as we discuss: The practice of tapping and how to begin The critical importance of self-care and pleasure Why we feel that we need to practice diet and deprivation The reason behind the clenching feeling in our stomach, back pain, or insomnia.

May 26, 2016 Erin Stutland has cracked the code. She has developed a method of exercising which will inspire you, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Her unique combination of joyous movement (imagine looking forward to your work-out) and mantras comes together in a powerfully positive mind/body experience that can change how you feel about, well… everything. You’re only one workout away from feeling good again, but it has to be the right type of workout. Listen as we discuss how movement in your body creates movement in your life.

May 13, 2016 “Honoring yourself is not about why and how to pamper yourself, and it’s not about turning your back on those who need you. The issues surrounding giving and receiving are much deeper. When you honor yourself you are respecting, appreciating, and giving birth to your best self, so that you can give creatively and abundantly in ways that honor others.” –Patricia Spadaro Self-care is possibly the most important part of thriving with PCOS. Without it, all the diet and lifestyle changes are diminished. It also may be the hardest part for many women (like me). Ask yourself: Am I “allergic” to saying no? Do I confuse constantly being busy with being strong? Is constant giving the source of my chronic stress? Where am I on my to-do list? Do I feel guilty when taking time for myself? Is sacrificing an excuse to avoid rejection or confrontation? Patricia Spadaro says it is time to open your heart and say, “I deserve to bring forth my gifts.” In this podcast we discuss how to establish the healthy habit of honoring yourself. It is a habit that will improve your life; I promise.

April 20, 2016 I often interview men and women who are on the front lines of PCOS research, finding innovative solutions so women with PCOS can move forward. Sonya Satveit is such a trailblazer. Her latest initiative, Open Source Health, is focused on building a bridge between the latest research, the greatest experts and providers, and patients in order to close the gap and eliminate the fragmentation of service in health care. Listen as we discuss a study her team is about to begin, employing the latest in Precision Medicine for research in PCOS. What is Precision Medicine? How can analysis of your DNA be used to personalize care? Can Precision Medicine offer earlier detection of life-altering diseases or suggest preventative measures? How can you help or be involved in this study? | Read More on PCOS Diva

April 11, 2016 “Our responsibility is not to match the standard of beauty that we’re given in the advertising world. Our responsibility is to feel well enough so we can go out and do what’s purposeful and passionate for us.” -Rosie Molinary I think of PCOS Diva and the work that I do as helping women move beyond the pain, struggle and symptoms of PCOS so that they, in turn, can live the life they were meant to live and shine their light without PCOS holding them back. Self-acceptance is a really important piece of that. I often recommend Rosie Molinary’s book, Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self-Acceptance to my clients, family and friends. Rosie’s message of radical self-acceptance is powerful and potentially life changing. Listen in as we discuss: How to build a positive, healthy relationship with ourselves Recognizing that your worthiness is your birthright The body warrior pledge Defining your own beautiful.

March 23, 2016 I sat down with fertility expert, Brigit Danner and asked her one key question. “If a woman with PCOS who is trying to get pregnant has changed her diet and her lifestyle, has added some appropriate nutritional supplements and is seeing a fertility specialist, but she’s still having a hard time getting pregnant, what are some of the other factors that she should be thinking about and considering?” Listen in as she shares some fertility considerations and tips you may not have thought about including: How does your age but also the age of your partner factor into fertility? Does a partner’s stress, nutrition, supplements and lifestyle impact his fertility? How can you best approach discussing fertility with your partner? What role does your relationship with your partner and your own mindset play?

March 23, 2016 “It’s helpful for people to come in and make sure they understand what’s going on, rather than making assumptions or going off of what their friend told them or what they read online. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, unfortunately.” – Dr. Rashmi Kudesia Fertility drives many women to their PCOS diagnosis. Then questions then swirl about the challenges of becoming pregnant, maintaining a healthy pregnancy and ensuring a healthy baby after delivery. Will lifestyle changes help? Is IVF the answer? In this podcast, I spoke with Dr. Rashmi Kudesia, a Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist at Reproductive Medicine Associates of New York. She is an award winning, practicing fertility doctor, and she answers some of your most burning questions. Most importantly, she explains what you can do to increase your chances of welcoming a healthy baby. Listen in as we discuss: Who is a good PCOS candidate for IVF? What advice does she give overweight or underweight patients? Are there risks of ovarian hyperstimulation for a woman with PCOS? Do women with PCOS have an advantage as they age? Should we worry about elevated risks during pregnancy? What can you do to boost your health and fertility?

March 23, 2016 “The idea that we have to experience ourselves and be treated as if we are ill and wrong rather than individuals with our inherited physiology with some common experiences related to that is what I want to change our minds about.” Nancy Dunne is a pioneer in holistic handling of PCOS and was instrumental in my own healing journey. Her positive spin on PCOS, focusing on the benefits of being a high androgen, inherently insulin resistant woman are life changing. In her view, “We are human beings with highly androgen influenced nervous systems and fundamentally feminine emotional hearts which is a very beautiful and very powerful combination of characteristics that should be developed and celebrated rather than suppressed and hidden.” In short, women with PCOS must adopt a powerfully positive lifestyle and perspective in order to truly thrive. Listen in as we discuss: The positive aspects of PCOS The 2 steps you must take to alleviate your suffering The importance of spirituality in healing | Read More on PCOS Diva.

March 5, 2016 You have a lot of questions about Ovasitol, inositols and male fertility. I invited Dr. Mark H. Ratner, an expert on all of these topics, to join the podcast and answer your most burning questions. Every woman considering getting pregnant will benefit from his clear explanations and sage advice. Listen in as we discuss: What are Ovaitol and inositols and how do they work? Why many doctors don’t understand the benefits of inositols for PCOS Can I take Ovasitol with metformin or if I am pregnant or nursing? Supplements that benefit sperm quality and motility Current research and clinical trials on inositols, Ovasitol and male infertility Dr. Mark H. Ratner is the Regional Director of Male Reproductive Medicine at Shady Grove Fertility Center in Washington, DC. He is also the Medical Director of Theralogix, a DC-based company which develops products focused on nutrition and reproductive health.

March 5, 2016 Women diagnosed with PCOS are often told that they will suffer the symptoms their entire lives. Dr. Meaghan Kirschling and Health Coach Wendy Borhauer, founders of Beyond the Basics Health Academy, disagree. Diagnosis is just the first step toward balance and healing. Whether you are a teenager being told you will “grow out of it” or woman in menopause, there are actions you can take today to begin healing. Listen in as we discuss: Signs, symptoms and treatment of PCOS in adolescents Why women with PCOS often feel better than ever during menopause 3 things they tell women to do in order to lose weight and balance hormones Why and when you should detox How your relationship with food affects PCOS, no matter your age The supplements they recommend.

February 18, 2016 “A lot of women who follow this journey are in a lot of pain because of the inflammation. You can’t do a high-impact workout. You can’t do P90X. You can’t even think about Insanity. CrossFit? Don’t even look at the building as you’re driving by.” – Diamond Dallas Page I’m an early adopter of DDP Yoga. It is a strenuous cardio workout that doesn’t overtax my adrenals and leave me exhausted. At the end of a workout, I feel rejuvenated, strong and flexible– exactly the way you should feel after some great exercise. Many women with PCOS are dealing with chronic inflammation and elevated levels of cortisol, as well as weight and joint issues which make it hard to do high-impact exercise. I want everybody to know that there are alternatives (like DDP Yoga)-exercise that you can do at your own pace and level and see real results. Yoga is proven to be very beneficial for PCOS. In a recent study, adolescents with PCOS who spent one hour a day in yoga practice, significantly improved their anxiety, hirsutism, menstrual frequency, glucose and lipid levels, as well as their insulin resistance values. So listen in to my interview with DPP Yoga founder, Diamond Dallas Page and learn how DDP Yoga can transform your mind and body. PCOS Diva is not affiliated with DDP Yoga. I’m just a fan.

January 22, 2016 Fertility is one of the main concerns I hear about from women with PCOS. Not many women clearly understand their fertility cycles and even fewer feel like they have any control over them. Fertility expert Hannah Ransom visited the PCOS Diva podcast this week to share information with other women with PCOS that want to take more control of their fertility using fertility planning and awareness methods. Listen as we discuss: The difference between natural family planning and fertility awareness How to use fertility awareness as a birth control or family planning method The best time to test for pregnancy or progesterone levels What your cervical fluid is trying to tell you Using fertility awareness to make your cycles more regular Helpful fertility app.

January 6, 2016 You likely won’t hear about the MTHFR genetic mutation in your doctor’s office, but 60% of the population has this condition. If you have the MTHFR mutation, it means that (among other things) your body cannot convert folic acid into folate that you need for a healthy baby and your own cell replication. Listen in as I speak with expert, Angela Heap about: what is MTHFR what tests can determine whether you have the MTHFR mutation the difference between folic acid and folate how MTHFR affects women trying to conceive and those that have suffered multiple miscarriages what supplements for folates and B12 you should take if you have the MTHFR mutation.

December 30, 2015 The simple shift in focus from infertility to fertility can make all the difference when a woman with PCOS is trying to conceive, says Aimee Raupp, a well known author, acupuncturist, and herbalist. In her New York practice, Amy has treated countless women with PCOS who have found their fertility by embracing their physical and emotional health first. Listen as Aimee guides us through: the power of optimism and why it works how letting go of grief, fear and jealousy boosts your fertility the wisdom we can gain from the mind-body link of Chinese medicine how self-care prepares a healthy space for your child and you for motherhood.

December 16, 2015 PCOS Diva Menopause “Now is a great time; every day is great time to make a lifestyle improvement and know that there is a payoff that comes with that, regardless of having the PCOS diagnosis.” -Dr. Rashmi Kudesia Menopause is increasingly on my mind. As I enjoy my mid-forties, menopause is looming in my immediate future. I have a lot of questions, starting with, “How will menopause affect me, as a woman with PCOS?” Dr. Rashmi Kudesia, a nationally respected reproductive endocrinologist, accomplished lecturer, and author of numerous scientific research articles and manuscripts in leading medical journals offers answers. In our recent podcast, she answered many of my burning questions about PCOS and menopause and offered her analysis of current PCOS/menopause research. In fact, she answered many of the questions that Divas frequently ask me about the topic. Listen in as we discuss Why women with PCOS and lifelong irregular menstrual cycles often have regular cycles as they approach menopause The differences between women with and without PCOS as they transition into menopause Whether there is an increased risk of cancer, heart disease and type II diabetes as we age The latest protocol for using Metformin, Letrozole, and Clomid Whether women with PCOS have a lengthened reproductive span Recommendations for hysterectomy.

November 25, 2015 Millions of women around the world struggle with PCOS. That number would make you think that PCOS research would be popular and well funded. For many reasons, this is not the case. The good news is that research physician Dr. Frank González and many who share his passion are undertaking research right now that will change the lives of women with PCOS. Dr. Gonzalez is studying the link between PCOS and inflammation. We know that inflammation is the underpinning of most major diseases and health problems (cancer, diabetes, heart attack, stroke). Now we can add PCOS to the list. Listen in as Dr. Gonzalez explains the “epigenetic phenomenon” that leads an overweight mother to predispose her fetus to obesity for their lifetime the effect of inflammation on ovarian dysfunction how to reverse the damage inflammation has caused already and prevent new damage his research on asprin-like drugs on PCOS and inflammation the usefulness of natural anti-inflammatories (like ginger).

November 21, 2015 “(Management of) stress is just as important as diet and exercise in the management of PCOS. It’s a piece that has to be addressed because, unless you do, you can’t get the hormones in check.” – Dr. Shawna Darou Stress hormones inter-play with the hormones we most often hear associated with PCOS. Progesterone, testosterone, estrogen, and thyroid hormones either bring your body balance or wreak havoc on your health. For women with PCOS, they often worsen symptoms like abdominal weight gain, acne, facial hair growth, or hair loss on the head. Dr. Shawna Darou recently sat down with me to explain the role of stress on hormones in women with PCOS and left us with some important take-aways on how to reduce stress and its effects. Listen in and learn about: unexpected sources of chronic stress tips for controlling stress how stress effects the thyroid hormones and makes your blood work appear normal when it’s not why stress causes weight around the central abdomen, particularly in women with PCOS the danger of over-exercising adrenal fatigue and how you can test for it.

November 17, 2015 Are you a stress eater? A reward eater? A comfort eater? You’re not crazy. You’re not lazy. This is not about will power. There’s a reason why this destructive eating behavior is going on. Women with PCOS are often told, “You need to lose weight and go on a low carb, ketogenic or paleo diet.” For a lot of us, the thoughts of going on a strict food plan leads to a sense of denial and a cycle of stress/emotional eating. Dr. Melissa McCreery is a well-known psychologist and author who can suggest some reasons for our eating habits and practical ways we can avoid pit falls. Listen to my interview with her and learn: How to live, eat well, and have the health that you want without feeling deprived, miserable and overwhelmed The power of adopting a transformation mindset What’s your why? Is your overeating biological, emotional, a coping mechanism, or all of these? Practical holiday eating tips.

October 28, 2015 “The most critical factor in all of the issues facing women with PCOS is systematic inflammation and its origin which is probably in the gut,” explains Dr. Felice Gersh in our most recent interview. Dr. Gersh is a doctor of integrated medicine and a renowned expert on PCOS. Our conversation was wide ranging as she clearly explained the origin of many of our toughest symptoms. The gut-brain-hormone link can be a delicate balancing act, but once we get it worked out, Dr. Gersh assures, our physical and emotional health will radically improve. Listen in and learn: Why the gut is called the 2nd brain What steps to take in order to calm and treat GI inflammation The impact of stress, emotions and anxiety on your gut and overall health The link between nutrient deficiencies, leaky gut, insulin resistance, acne, hair loss, Hashimotos and other auto immune disorders How mouthwash is ruining your arteries Foods and supplements that can help repair your gut and reduce inflammation The extreme dangers of pharmaceuticals like Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium.

French women are well known for their easy elegance and style. What is their secret to making fabulous look simple? Jamie Cat Callan has made a life’s study out of answering just that question. I was inspired to interview her and learn more about the nuances behind French women’s “joie de vivre” after reading her latest book, “Bonjour Happiness.” The book is a serious, but light hearted guide to capturing the essence of living well. The philosophy fits very well with the PCOS Diva mantra, “A Diva is Powerfully Positive.” Listen to our conversation as we discuss how self-love is the cornerstone of happiness and a positive life how French women eat what they want without guilt the French life-affirming philosophy and methodology around food how finding your “secret garden” will better your life and the lives of those around you.

August 27, 2015 Interview with Dr. Tom O’Bryan, who is an internationally recognized expert on Celiac Disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Inflammation due to gluten sensitivity is a central concern to women with PCOS, so I was thrilled to interview him for our latest podcast

August 17, 2015 Does any of this sound familiar: chronic fatigue, apathy, depression, brain fog, memory lapse, mood swings, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic attacks, weight gain, hair loss, low body temperature, or joint pain? You may have a thyroid disorder. As a woman with PCOS, your likelihood of having Hashimoto’s Disease is 3 times greater than other women. Many of us suffer from this or some other type of thyroid disorder. With this in mind, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Izabelle Wentz, a prominent thyroid expert and pharmacist. Her search for the root cause of Hashimoto’s Disease offers hope to all of us who suffer from thyroid issues. During our conversation, we discussed: Hypothyroidism vs. Hashimoto’s Disease Tests you need to ask your doctor about to be properly diagnosed Common and often overlooked or misdiagnosed symptoms Actions to take when you are diagnosed Possible benefits of pharmaceuticals Causes and results of not properly treating thyroid issues | Read More on PCOS Diva August 17, 2015 Does any of this sound familiar: chronic fatigue, apathy, depression, brain fog, memory lapse, mood swings, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, OCD, panic attacks, weight gain, hair loss, low body temperature, or joint pain? You may have a thyroid disorder. As a woman with PCOS, your likelihood of having Hashimoto’s Disease is 3 times greater than other women. Many of us suffer from this or some other type of thyroid disorder. With this in mind, I had the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Izabelle Wentz, a prominent thyroid expert and pharmacist. Her search for the root cause of Hashimoto’s Disease offers hope to all of us who suffer from thyroid issues. During our conversation, we discussed: Hypothyroidism vs. Hashimoto’s Disease Tests you need to ask your doctor about to be properly diagnosed Common and often overlooked or misdiagnosed symptoms Actions to take when you are diagnosed Possible benefits of pharmaceuticals Causes and results of not properly treating thyroid issues.

July 25, 2015 So, what’s your type? Dr. Philip Goglia, nutritionist to pro and semi-pro athletes, stars like Chris Hemsworth, Chris Pratt, Ryan Gosling and even a PCOS Diva, can tell you. He specializes in metabolic nutrition and divides the population in to 3 types of metabolisms. I was inspired to interview him after reading his book, “Turn up the Heat – Unlock the Fat Burning Power of Your Metabolism.” His message of eating to your metabolic type spoke to me, and I think you will benefit from what he has to say as well. Listen in and learn: 3 types of metabolism and how to get the most out of yours are you eating enough food? his guidelines of what starches and sugars to eat and avoid (hint: avoid “fluffy and mushy”) how to build an eating pattern that will heat up your metabolism what to eat at bedtime to help you sleep better Please listen until the end. He has a important and special message just for PCOS Divas.

June 30, 2015 PCOS Diva has a fundamental purpose of empowering and educating women about their health and fertility. That is why I am thrilled to get behind a Kickstarter campaign to turn Holly Grigg Spall’s book, Sweetening the Pill: or How We Got Hooked on Hormonal Birth Control into a documentary. Ricki Lake and Abby Epstein plan to make this thought-provoking book into a documentary. The goal is to empower and educate women so they can make an informed choice about their fertility and birth control. Too often, women are given the birth control pill as a first line treatment for PCOS. They are never informed of the countless side effects they can expect while on the pill or the post-pill syndrome they can expect when they stop taking it. We are rarely educated by physicians about the rhythms of our body and how to regulate our cycles with lifestyle choices and supplements. I had the opportunity to interview author Holly Grigg- Spall this week. Listen to my interview with Holly and learn about: The benefits and side effects of hormonal birth control (the pill and its cousins) Difference between a period on the pill and a period on your own Regulating your period without pharmaceuticals What is body literacy and why it is important How you can help make this documentary project happen!

June 20, 2015 Menstrual cycle wheel. Average menstrual cycle. Bleeding period and ovulation. Nicole Jardim is a leading expert in the area of menstruation and women’s hormones. During our interview, we explored her work addressing the root cause of period abnormalities. Rather than simply treating or masking the symptoms, she strives to find the root of the irregularities and repair the problem naturally. She gives practical advice about figuring out why your period may be irregular and suggests the type of proactive changes you can make to start ovulating regularly and get your cycle sorted out. Listen in as we talk about: what is a normal period? what can your period tell you about your health? how and why to chart your cycle the relationship between estrogen dominance and your cycle the effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in our environment on your period is the pill a solution?

June 11, 2015 The natural treatment of PCOS is a passion of mine. I am happy to share this passion with Dr. Lara Briden, a well respected naturopathic physician. Dr. Briden is my “period guru.” Her new book, The Period Repair Manual, was on my list of vacation reading. For every woman who has ever thought, “I will never have a regular period,” this interview is for you. In our 40 minute interview, she addressed many of the questions I get about herbal supplements for treating PCOS symptoms including insulin resistance, hirstuism and ovulation issues. In our time together, she explained: Why doesn’t the same herb work for all women with PCOS? What herbs are best for different symptoms? Is it safe to take herbs while you are taking fertility drugs, pregnant or breastfeeding? What are the benefits and constraints of herbs such as vitex, peony, licorice, spearmint, turmeric, saw palmetto, myo-inositol, berberine and more?

May 6, 2015 Got stress? Trying to conceive? Dr. Maizes, respected educator, doctor of integrated medicine and author of Be Fruitful: The Essential Guide to Maximizing Fertility and Giving Birth to a Healthy Child recently sat down with me to discuss stress and its impact on women with PCOS, particularly those trying to conceive. During our 45 minute interview, she made clear the link between fertility and stress as well as provided some excellent, easy to use advice and coping strategies. Listen in and hear about: 7 Tried and True Relaxation Techniques The link between stress, your hormones and fertility Managing stress and well-being with Chinese medicine and Ayurveda Preconception care and the “Fetal Origins Hypothesis".

April 23, 2015 Most women with PCOS struggle with fertility; I know I did. I frequently hear from women who are not only concerned about getting pregnant, but about maintaining a healthy pregnancy. I am often asked if there are there increased risks in pregnancy with PCOS and whether supplements help. My recent conversation with Rebecca Murray, APRN, outlined many ways that women can best prepare for pregnancy as well as what they can do to enjoy a healthy, issue-free pregnancy. During our 45 minute interview, Rebecca’s integrative approach to fertility touched on important topics including: 3 things to do before you even think about getting pregnant Tests you should consider before and during pregnancy Progesterone related miscarriage and how to prevent it Supplements you should take during pregnancy Managing your risk of gestational diabetes The link between preeclampsia and magnesium deficiency

March 18, 2015 Pelvic pain is a common symptom for women struggling with PCOS. With multiple organs tucked into a very small space, irritation can become widespread and extremely painful. In my interview with Jessica Drummond, a well-respected pelvic physical therapist and owner of a private women’s health clinical nutrition and coaching practice, she stresses the importance of getting to the root of your pelvic pain including hormone imbalances, endometriosis, cysts, muscle fatigue and stress. No woman with PCOS needs to live with pelvic pain. There are steps you can take now to start relieving your PCOS pelvic pain. Listen and learn about: How stress and elevated cortisol can throw your hormones out of balance and increase your pain 2 types of foods your need to reduce or eliminate to dispel your pain Supplements that may help alleviate your symptoms Effective self-care education and techniques How to find a pelvic physical therapist near you.

March 6, 2015 If you have polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), you have chronic body-wide inflammation. Recently, I spoke with Dr. Felice Gersh, M.D., a leading expert on the subject. Dr. Gersh is one of the top integrative gynecologists in the United States and an expert in the field of PCOS. Her philosophy involves looking at a patient’s whole being in order to help them achieve optimal health. She believes that doctors don’t heal people; they merely help patients resource their own healing abilities and find the right balance in their bodies, ideally through the right mix of exercise, nutrition and lifestyle. In our recent interview, she delivered cutting edge information about PCOS and its causes as well as practical advice on how to begin healing. Listen and you will learn: How gut inflammation is the root of many of your toughest PCOS symptoms The 5 steps you need to take today to reduce inflammation How to protect your children from PCOS starting even before birth Whether a hysterectomy will cure your PCOS How to monitor your inflammation levels.

February 23, 2015 Most women with PCOS struggle with reproductive as well as metabolic issues including obesity. Questions about how the two might be related are the center of Dr. Dan Dumesic’s work. I was fortunate enough to interview Dr. Dumesic and ask about his research and recent findings. Listen, and you will learn about: How reproductive and metabolic issues may be intertwined Dumesic’s cutting edge research at UCLA examining PCOS in lean women to determine the link between androgen excess and body fat Possible anti-androgen medication to treat PCOS How location of fat in your body can effect different areas of your health What is fatty liver? Medications available, in addition to lifestyle changes, to improve your health. The risk of obesity damaging the long term health of a child.

February 2, 2015 The average doctor examines a woman with PCOS, prescribes the pill, tells her to lose some weight and sends her on her way. Dr. Dian Ginsberg is not your average doctor. Listen to our information-packed 43 minute interview to learn her 5 Magic Elements for treating PCOS. Dr. Ginsberg is a respected traditional doctor who has branched out into functional medicine. Her goal is to help patients heal themselves by understanding the underlying causes of PCOS and achieving balanced wellness naturally. In our interview, she shares a wealth of information about micronutritional deficiencies as well as practical advice about sleep, diet, stress and proper exercise for women with PCOS. Her thoughts on the PCOS diet and the PCOS lifestyle are not to be missed.

December 23, 2014 It is always a pleasure to speak with someone knowledgeable about PCOS, so I was excited to interview Dr. Mark Perloe, an OBGYN and PCOS fertility expert. He shared that PCOS is less about a woman’s ovaries and more about her insulin resistance. His analogies of the way our bodies process insulin to a car engine and subway train rang true and made a complicated issue very accessible. Listen as he explains why treating PCOS is a 3 legged stool involving your exercise, relationship with food and insulin sensitizers. He offers practical advice on the most effective way to exercise to both lower insulin and lose weight, how to change your relationship with food, choose a doctor and what supplements to consider as well as his thoughts on PCOS and pregnancy

December 2, 2014 I recently had the privilege of speaking with well-known Fermentationist, Summer Bock. Our conversation changed the way I think about fermentation and healing of our gut through natural probiotics. While people have long understood the benefits of probiotics and fermented foods, it is only recently that science has begun to link the two and really explore the far reaching benefits of healthy bacteria in our guts. Listen in as Summer reveals the one fermented food we should all be eating daily to help heal your gut. The goal is to establish a healthy ecosystem in your gut which contains a balance of good and bad bacteria. The result will be a stronger immune system, clearer skin, lower sugar cravings and lessened anxiety and depression symptoms.

November 18, 2014 It isn’t often that I hear rave reviews about a PCOS practitioner. I certainly hear lots of horror stories, so when I repeatedly hear wonderful things about a doctor who has a wonderful bedside manner, and treats her PCOS patients with kindness and respect, I have to take notice. For the past several years, I kept hearing great things about Dr. Katherine Sherif, so I invited her to join me on a PCOS Diva Podcast. Katherine Sherif, M.D. is Professor and Vice Chair of the Department of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. She is also Director of Jefferson Women’s Primary Care. Dr. Sherif, an internist, became interested in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in the 1990’s when she was studying insulin resistance. She started treating women with PCOS and in 2000, she established the country’s first academic program for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Besides PCOS, Dr. Sherif interests include menopause and hormone therapy, omega-3 fatty acids heart disease in women. She published a textbook on women’s health in 2008, and a medical handbook on hormone replacement therapy in 2013. In the podcast below, Dr. Sherif walks us through typical visit with one of her PCOS patients. She also shares her thoughts on fatty liver and using supplements to manage PCOS. You’ll want a pen and paper ready to take notes!

I often hear from Divas that their sex drive is low or even non-existent. There are lots of underlying reasons for low libido – from The Pill, depression, stress, anxiety, to low self-esteem and hormonal imbalance. I have called in one of my favorite experts to chat more about how women with PCOS can increase libido. Dr. Jen Landa is a Hormone Expert MD. She’s an Ob/Gyn, Sexpert, and Chief Medical Officer of BodyLogicMD. She’s also the author of The Sex Drive Solution for Women and creator of Rewire Your Desire, a program to help women face life with renewed energy and passion. Dr. Jen lost her spark when she was 28 years old, newly married, and just beginning her career as an Ob/Gyn. Her determination to bring it back sent her on a journey that lasted many years. She found the answers she needed in integrative medicine using hormones, nutrition, supplements, and other lifestyle changes. Dr. Jen has created a framework of easy-to-follow practices that helped her, helped her patients, and is now helping women everywhere restore their energy, their health, and their sex lives. As wife, mother and physician, Dr. Jen’s friendly, accessible style has made her a favorite among women seeking solutions for health issues from PMS, baby blues and low libido, to hot flashes, vaginal dryness and menopausal mood swings. She’s been featured on Dr. OZ, Fox News with Dr. Manny Alvarez, Shape Magazine, Elle,Men’sHealth and more.

I feel as if I have found a kindred spirit in Dr. Lara Briden. A few months ago I discovered her Healthy Hormone Blog (http://www.larabriden.com/). She has worked with women with PCOS for the last 2 decades. I am very passionate about spreading the word regarding the risks of the pill as a treatment for PCOS. Dr. Lara is as well. She shared her thoughts with me during this 40 minute interview.

I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Andrea Dunaif earlier this month. Dr. Dunaif is the Charles F. Kettering Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism, and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Medicine at the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University. Dr. Dunaif held faculty appointments at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and Harvard Medical School. She served as the first director of women’s health at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She also established and served as chief of the Division of Women’s Health in the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and led the Harvard Medical School National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health. Dr. Dunaif is an internationally recognized expert in endocrinology and women’s health. Her research on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the most common hormonal disorder of reproductive-age women with prevalence rates of 5-10% worldwide, has shown that PCOS is a leading risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Further, this research has revolutionized the treatment of PCOS with insulin sensitizing drugs. Dr. Dunaif is the Director of the National Institutes of Health-supported Northwestern University Specialized Center of Research on Sex Differences and leads an international effort to map the genes for PCOS. She also oversees two National Institutes of Health-supported training programs, the Northwestern University Building Interdisciplinary Careers in Women’s Health institutional K-award program and the Northwestern University Program in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hormone Action, an institutional Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award. Listen in and you’ll hear our 40 minute discussion of recent PCOS research, genetics and more.

I have been following Dr. Fiona McCulloch’s blog for several years now. She offers a refreshing view of managing PCOS. Dr. Fiona in fact has PCOS and is a board certified Naturopathic Doctor who has been in practice for 13 years in Toronto, Canada. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree (Biological Sciences) from the University of Guelph and went on to graduate from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. She is the founder and owner of White Lotus Integrative Medicine, a busy clinic specializing in women’s health and fertility. Her clinical focus is on the treatment of fertility and hormonal conditions, and she is an avid writer and researcher, having published articles in major naturopathic journals. She also has a special interest in the treatment of PCOS. Fiona has been able to reverse her own PCOS symptoms with natural methods and is thrilled to be able to share what she has learned with other women suffering through the same concerns. She lives in Toronto with her husband and 3 boys. In this interview we chat about some of the positive PCOS research and answer some questions posted by Divas. You won’t want to miss it! Also, you won’t want to miss Dr. Fiona’s article on PCOS Diva about PCOS and Stress.

I recently had the pleasure to chat with one of the leading PCOS Researchers and experts, Dr. Richard Legro. Dr Legro is a Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Penn State University College of Medicine in Hershey, Pennsylvania. His research and clinical practice are focused on PCOS diagnosis, treatment and genetic/environmental causes. He established one of the first clinics devoted to the treatment of women with PCOS at the M.S. Hershey Medical Center. Dr. Legro is currently an investigator in an ongoing Genome Wide Association Study (GWAS) in PCOS and is the lead investigaor of the multicentre U.S. National Institute of Health (NIH)- sponsored trials, Pregnancy in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome I and II. He is the head of the steering committee on several multicenter infertility trials currently underway in China, including PCOSAct, a trial of clomiphene and acupuncture in women with PCOS. I have recorded my 30 minute interview with Dr. Legro and you can listen to it in it’s entirety. We discuss his current studies.

I am thrilled to share the recording of my conversation with Dr. Walter Futterweit from earlier this month. Dr. Futterweit was a godsend to me early on in my PCOS journey. His book, A Patient’s Guide to PCOS

Ricardo Azziz is one of the preeminent PCOS researchers in the world today. It was an honor to speak with him this month. Prior to the interview, I asked Divas on Facebook to send me their questions. I had over 200 submissions! Listen in to hear our discussion and his answers to some of your burning questions.