View source for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

== What Does It Mean? ==
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that affects ovarian function, leading to hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and metabolic disturbances. It is often associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, and an imbalance in androgens (male hormones). PCOS can contribute to infertility, weight gain, and increased risk of metabolic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

== How Did We Get There? ==

=== Root Causes: ===

* Insulin Resistance – Increased insulin levels drive excess androgen production.
* Hormonal Imbalance – Elevated androgens contribute to ovulatory dysfunction.
* Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Chronic inflammation exacerbates PCOS symptoms.
* Nutrient Deficiencies – Deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals affect hormone regulation.
* Gut Dysbiosis – Imbalances in the gut microbiome may contribute to metabolic dysfunction.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
* Excess facial and body hair (hirsutism)
* Acne and oily skin
* Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
* Fatigue and brain fog
* Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness
* Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression
* Fertility challenges and ovulation issues

=== Lab Test Findings ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Change''' 
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|Alkaline Phosphatase
|Normal
|45.00-100.00 IU/L
|-
|ALT (SGPT)
|Normal or Increased
|10.00-26.00 IU/L
|-
|Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH)
|Increased
|1.10-4.00 ng/mL
|-
|AST (SGOT)
|Normal or Increased
|10.00-26.00 IU/L
|-
|Cholesterol, Serum
|Increased
|180.00-220.00 mg/dL
|-
|DHEA Sulfate
|Increased
|150.00-250.00 ug/dL
|-
|Dihydrotestosterone, LCMSMS
|Increased
|50.00-65.00 ug/dL
|-
|Ferritin
|Normal or Increased
|45.00-79.00 ng/mL
|-
|Free Testosterone, Calculated
|Increased
|0.8-1.2 ng/dL
|-
|Glucose, Serum
|Normal or Increased
|75.00-86.00 mg/dL
|-
|HOMA2-IR
|Increased
|0.75-1.25 Index
|-
|Insulin
|Increased
|2.00-5.00 µIU/mL
|-
|Sex Hormone Binding Globulin
|Decreased
|40.00-46.00 nmol/L
|-
|Testosterone, Total
|Increased
|700.00-1100.00 ng/dL
|-
|Vitamin B12
|Normal
|545.00-1100.00 pg/mL
|-
|Vitamin D25-OH, Total
|Decreased
|45-65 ng/mL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==

=== Functional Medicine Approach: ===
The treatment strategy for PCOS focuses on reducing insulin resistance, balancing hormones, and improving metabolic function through targeted supplementation and lifestyle changes.

=== Supplement Protocol: ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function'''
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Advanced Vita-Biotic R
|Supports gut microbiome and immune function
|1 capsule with food, daily
|-
|Endura
|Enhances hydration and metabolic balance
|1 packet with or without food, three times daily
|-
|D-Mannose Powder
|Supports urinary tract health and reduces infections
|1 tsp of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Vita Microbe
|Supports microbial balance and digestive health
|3  capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|Vita Buffered C Powder
|Provides antioxidant protection and immune support
|¼  scoop of powder with food, twice daily
|-
|Magnesium
|Improves insulin sensitivity and reduces stress
|2 capsules with or without food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Digestyzyme
|Supports digestion & enzymatic function
|2 capsule 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Balance
|Helps regulate menstrual cycles and hormone balance
|2 capsules without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Candid
|Supports gut and immune function
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes prior to food, twice daily
|-
|Vita-Glutathione
|Enhances detoxification and reduces oxidative stress
|1 capsule with or without food, daily
|-
|CoQ-10 300 mg
|Enhances mitochondrial energy and antioxidant function
|2  capsules with food, daily
|-
|Vita DIM
|Supports estrogen metabolism and detoxification
|2 capsules with or without food, daily
|-
|L-Carnitine
|Supports metabolism and muscle function
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Cerenity 
|Support stress relief, relaxation, and healthy neurotransmitter balance
|6 capsules with or without food, daily 
|-
|V-Inflamma
|Reduces systemic inflammation
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita Defense
|Immune system support
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|V-Pax
|Neurotransmitter & adrenal support
|2  capsules with food, twice daily
|-
|Hormone Plus 
|Support healthy estrogen balance and endocrine function
|2 capsules without food, daily 
|-
|Vita B Methyl
|Supports methylation & energy production
|1 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita DIM
|Hormonal & detoxification support
|2 capsules with or without food,  daily
|-
|V-Collagen
|Supports gut lining & joint health
|1 scoop of powder without food, daily
|-
|Gluta Protect
|Antioxidant & gut barrier protection
|1 scoop of powder without food,  daily
|-
|SBI Powder
|Immunoglobulin support for gut healing
|1 scoop of powder in cold liquids without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Biotic
|Supports microbiome balance
|4 capsule without food, daily
|-
|Vita-Flux
|Nitric oxide & vascular health support
|2 capsules 20-30 minutes  prior to food, twice  daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Balance Blood Sugar: Focus on a low-glycemic diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
* Regular Exercise: Strength training and aerobic activity improve insulin sensitivity.
* Reduce Stress: Incorporate meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness practices.
* Improve Sleep Quality: Aim for 7-9 hours of restorative sleep per night.
* Gut Health Optimization: Consume probiotic-rich foods and avoid processed sugars.