Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects an estimated 1.4 million women in Canada. It's most common among women of reproductive age, with most symptoms being apparent in their 20s or 30s. The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
This condition causes the ovaries to produce excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and the imbalance can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
- irregular or infrequent menstrual cycles
- acne and excess hair growth on the face, chest, and back
- fertility problems from affects on ovulation
- small cysts on the ovaries
- insulin resistance, potentially increasing the risk of type 2 diabetes
- weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
In this guide, we'll explore the role of PCOS in weight gain and provide strategies for losing weight and improving overall health despite the condition.
How PCOS Affects Weight & Metabolism
PCOS can manifest in the body in many ways. Two of the most concerning are an increased risk of diabetes and weight gain, which can lead to other health issues.
With PCOS, the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone produced in the pancreas. The primary role of insulin is to regulate blood sugar levels. It does this by helping cells use glucose for energy.
The problem with insulin resistance is that the pancreas can produce more of the hormone to compensate. That surplus of insulin can decrease other metabolic fuels. It prevents the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue, negatively impacts the production of ketones (substances that break down fat) in the liver, and encourages the body to store more fat.
On top of that, insulin resistance can make you hungrier. Higher insulin levels trigger the brain to release signals related to appetite, which can cause overeating.
Why Weight Loss Is More Challenging with PCOS
In Canada, more than a quarter of women with PCOS are obese. If you have PCOS, you may find slimming down is an uphill battle.
Losing weight is so difficult with PCOS because of its effects on hormones levels and metabolic rates. Insulin resistance can increase the storage of fat in the body, appetite, and cravings. Paired with a lower metabolism level, burning calories to lose weight can be difficult.
How to Lose Weight with PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Living with PCOS can be frustrating. No matter what you do, your best efforts to lose weight may feel futile. However, it's possible to make progress with the right approach.
Health experts recommend working together to create a plan for healthy lifestyle changes that support weight loss. Generally, managing stress, improving your sleep, getting more exercise, and working on your diet can make a difference.
Stress is a major risk factor for weight gain, and with PCOS, it can exacerbate an already-existing problem. Stress raises cortisol levels, and chronically elevated cortisol hormones in your body can lead to even more insulin resistance. You can combat this cycle with stress management techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga.
Improving your sleep schedule also makes a difference when dealing with insulin resistance-related cravings. Studies show that a lack of sleep can increase the activity of cortisol and ghrelin, hormones related to hunger and appetite. Getting more sleep decreases the action of these hunger hormones, supporting healthy eating and weight management.
Finally, 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week can help you avoid additional weight gain and potentially drop pounds. More exercise can help you create a better calorie deficit. Furthermore, it may lead to a reduction in insulin resistance.
Nutrition Tips That Support Hormonal Balance
Improving your diet can also encourage weight loss with PCOS. Experts recommend avoiding highly processed foods, sugar, unhealthy fats and excess carbohydrates. A high carbohydrate intake could increase your risk of insulin resistance. Additionally, processed and sugar-filled foods add more glucose to your body that can turn into fat.
Focus on high-fiber foods instead. Fiber can reduce insulin resistance and help you lose fat. Healthcare providers also frequently recommend increasing your intake of high-protein meals. Protein helps stabilize glucose levels in the body while increasing feelings of fullness after a meal.
Of course, you should also prioritize portion control. Plan your meals with fiber, protein and healthy fats while creating portions that help you avoid overeating.
Can Medication Help with PCOS Weight Loss?
Another way to lose weight with PCOS is to explore medical weight loss. Medical weight loss refers to strategies developed and supervised by a licensed healthcare provider.
Healthcare professionals have a deeper understanding of PCOS and its effects on the body. They can help you determine if treatment is right for you.
Many medical weight loss programs include medications that can combat the effects of PCOS, helping you lose weight despite the condition's impact on your body.
Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound & Rybelsus
Medical weight loss is transforming how women with PCOS lose weight, and there are many options available. Some well-known medications include Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Rybelsus.
These medications are glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists that mimic GLP-1 hormones produced naturally in the body. Your small intestines and colon produce GLP-1 after every meal, encouraging the pancreas to produce more insulin. GLP-1 medications also send signals to the hunger centres of the brain to reduce cravings and food noise, helping you eat less and maintain the calorie deficit needed to lose weight.
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Rybelsus can essentially combat the insulin resistance caused by PCOS. This action makes medical weight loss life-changing for women struggling with PCOS.
How Telehealth Supports Canadian Women with PCOS
Prescription GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Rybelsus are more accessible than you think. In the past, access to these medications was limited, with barriers like specialist waitlists, in-person visits, and pharmacy visits slowing down the process. Telehealth clinics help tear down those barriers once and for all, allowing women with PCOS to get health support from home.
At an online clinic, a licensed Canadian provider works with you to determine if GLP-1 medications are best for your needs. If prescribed a medication, an online pharmacy can send it discreetly to your home. No need to deal with busy waiting rooms or stand in line at the pharmacy. The process also involves unlimited follow-ups online for ongoing support, ensuring you have everything you need to succeed.
Overcome PCOS Weight Gain with Medical Weight Loss
Living with PCOS can be challenging. Many women feel hopeless as they struggle to lose weight and achieve better health. But with new scientific discoveries, there is hope.
A medical weight loss plan with healthy lifestyle changes can make a big difference, including GLP-1 medications like Ozempic that can help treat the insulin resistance and weight gain caused by PCOS. Connecting with a licensed healthcare provider to explore your options is a step in right direction.
Ready to start your PCOS weight loss journey?
