How Stress Impacts PCOS Symptoms

Are you feeling extra stressed lately?

Or do feel stressed when it comes to your PCOS diagnosis?

Maybe you even suspect a stressful incident contributed to your PCOS. We may all experience stress differently. But one thing is for sure it definitely has an impact on our bodies. Honestly, when I was diagnosed with PCOS my stress levels increased. To the point that it absolutely impacted the severity of my symptoms!

This topic is close to home for me. And I imagine, if you are reading this, close to home for you as well.

Stress can absolutely impact our hormones.

Today we are going to discuss three major ways that stress can be impacting PCOS

   1. Stress and Micronutrient Depletion

When our bodies are under stress, nutrients can be used up and depleted. I see this a lot when looking at micronutrient status lab panels. (If you want to learn more about how we measure micronutrient status- schedule here!)

For instance, your adrenal glands have the highest amount of vitamin C. And this essential nutrient is used by the adrenal glands in the production of cortisol. So when we are stressed, the adrenal glands are essentially working harder. And this means, more vitamin C can be used up. So the higher the stress levels, the lower the vitamin C levels.

Micronutrients play a big role in so many processes in the body. Studies even show that when vitamin D  levels are restored in women with PCOS, insulin, blood sugar and even cholesterol levels have improved.

    2. Stress and Cortisol Levels

As I explained above, our adrenal glands will produce cortisol. As stress levels increase, cortisol production can increase. Not only do micronutrients get used up during times of stress, but the increase in cortisol production may impact HPA regulation. Disruption in HPA regulation can further exacerbate hormone related symptoms.

    3. Stress and Your Gut

While this might come out of left field for you, this is interesting and something to watch for sure. Stress can impact the gut microbiome. In fact, stressful situations can alter the bacteria within the gut. Gut bacteria play an essential role in hormone regulation.

Watch along and learn more about the stress and PCOS connection in this video!

Disclaimer

This content is from the opinion of The Healing Roots, Nutrition Services, LLC doing business as Women’s Nutrition Clinic and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of treatment or medical advice from a doctor. 

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