Hormonal Imbalance

Since childhood, I have struggled with being able to lose weight and keep it off. After trying many different diet and exercise programs, I wrote it off as “bad genes” and figured there was nothing I could do about it. Fast forward to 2017, and I was diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). I had recently come off birth control and was having irregular periods (or no period at all), which is what I experienced prior to birth control. My OBGYN prescribed medication to try to regulate things but said there wasn’t much else we could do since I wasn’t actively trying to become pregnant.

In working with my current OBGYN, she started to educate me more about PCOS. PCOS makes it more difficult for the body to use the hormone insulin, which normally helps convert sugars and starches from foods into energy. This can make it difficult to lose weight and majority of women with PCOS are overweight or obese. She suggested I work with a nutritionist to see if I could use diet to regulate my hormones and weight.

As a result, I started working with Forum Health Clarkston in February of 2021 and within 6 weeks, I had my first period in 4 months. This was a huge win as I usually have to use a series of medications to initiate a period! Additionally, I have lost (and kept off) 10 pounds – which I have never been able to do in the past. The plan Chelsea – my nutritionist – customized for me has me eating more food (the right foods) and stabilizing my blood sugar. I am feeling more energized, healthy, and happier than I have been in a long time. Thank you, Chelsea and Forum Health Clarkston!