Podcast Summary
The High Cost of Undiagnosed PCOS in Women's Health: PCOS, an often undiagnosed condition affecting 1 in 10 women, costs the healthcare system $8B annually due to undiagnosed cases and resulting health complications. Women from ethnic minorities and those struggling with weight or infertility are at higher risk.
Key takeaway from this episode of Doctor's Kitchen podcast is that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which affects 1 in 10 women, is an often undiagnosed and under-researched condition that costs the healthcare system $8,000,000,000 annually in the US alone. The reason for this high cost is that many women with PCOS go undiagnosed, and when they do receive a diagnosis, they face significant health complications such as type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, and increased risks of heart disease and cancer. Women from ethnic minorities, including the Asian population, are disproportionately affected by PCOS, and those who struggle to conceive or carry excess weight are also at higher risk. Despite these statistics, many doctors and health professionals are unaware of the prevalence and impact of PCOS. This lack of awareness and prevention leads to expensive treatments for the health complications that result from the condition. It's important for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of PCOS, and for healthcare professionals to prioritize early diagnosis and prevention efforts. For more information, check out Doctor Nitu Bajikol's book "Living PCOS Free" which she co-authored with her daughter and nutritionist, Rohini Bajikol.
Misunderstood Hormonal Condition: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: PCOS is a common hormonal condition affecting 1 in 10 women, driven by insulin resistance and increasing risk of metabolic disorders. It's essential for those with a family history to be aware and seek proper management by endocrinologists.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a common hormonal condition affecting 1 in 10 women and potentially 1 in 4 in certain subgroups, is a complex, genetically-driven endocrine condition. Although named "polycystic ovary syndrome," there are no cysts in the ovaries. Instead, it affects the function of the ovaries and is often mistakenly managed by gynecologists when it should be managed by endocrinologists. The main driver of PCOS is insulin resistance, which affects about 75% of those with the condition and is characterized by cells in the body becoming resistant to insulin. This condition increases the risk of metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and heart disease, not only for women but also for men with family members diagnosed with PCOS. It is essential for both women and men with a family history of PCOS to take extra care and be aware of the potential symptoms.
Hormonal Disorders: Impact of Hormonal Imbalances on the Body: Hormonal disorders like PCOS result in hormonal imbalances, causing symptoms like irregular periods and signs of androgen excess. Genetics and environment influence PCOS, and seeking accurate diagnosis from healthcare providers is crucial.
Hormones, such as insulin, act as chemical messengers in the body, traveling from their source to distant organs to elicit a response. However, when the receptors for these hormones are impaired or blocked, the body may respond by producing more hormones, leading to conditions like insulin resistance and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a hormonal disorder commonly managed by OBGYNs, and it's not just about cysts in the ovary, but a complex interplay of hormonal imbalances. The name "polycystic ovary syndrome" comes from the diagnostic criteria that require two out of three symptoms: irregular periods and signs of androgen excess. It's essential to understand that PCOS is a condition influenced by genetics and the environment, and it's not a result of personal failure or lifestyle choices alone. Remember to be compassionate towards yourself and seek professional help if you suspect you may have PCOS. A good healthcare provider will ensure an accurate diagnosis and avoid misdiagnosis, which can lead to unnecessary treatments.
Understanding PCOS: Missed Periods, Androgen Excess, and Enlarged Ovaries: PCOS is marked by missed periods, signs of androgen excess, and enlarged ovaries, but painful periods are not a feature. Insulin resistance, linked to various health issues, plays a significant role in PCOS development. Healthcare professionals should consider coexisting conditions for accurate diagnoses and treatments.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition characterized by missed periods, signs of androgen excess, and an ultrasound showing enlarged ovaries with numerous small follicles. However, it's essential to note that painful periods are not a feature of PCOS, and other conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or pelvic infections could be causing the pain. Additionally, insulin resistance is a significant factor in the development of PCOS and is linked to various other health issues like type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancer. Environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors contribute to insulin resistance. It's crucial for individuals with PCOS to be aware of the signs and symptoms and not assume that all their health concerns are related to PCOS alone. Healthcare professionals should listen carefully to patients' stories and consider coexisting conditions to provide accurate diagnoses and effective treatments.
Exercise improves insulin sensitivity: Strength training and regular activity can make cells more responsive to insulin, leading to better blood sugar management. Consider meal timing, diverse foods, and a healthy gut microbiome for additional support.
Exercise plays a crucial role in improving insulin sensitivity, particularly through strength training and regular activity. This can help cells become more responsive to insulin, leading to better blood sugar management. Additionally, paying attention to meal timing and incorporating a diverse range of foods, including those that support a healthy gut microbiome, can further support insulin sensitivity and overall hormonal health. It's important to remember that insulin resistance is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and lifestyle choices, and addressing these influences holistically can lead to significant improvements.
Eating for a Healthy Gut: Reduce Risk of Estrogen-Fueled Conditions: A diverse, plant-rich diet supports gut health and reduces risk of breast cancer, PCOS, fibroids, and endometriosis. Gradually add colorful fruits and veggies, minimize toxins like BPA, and maintain a holistic approach to eating.
Nurturing the gut microbiome through a diverse and plant-rich diet can help reduce the risk of estrogen-fueled conditions like breast cancer, PCOS, fibroids, and endometriosis. This doesn't mean eliminating all "forbidden" foods, but rather focusing on what to add to your plate, such as colorful fruits and vegetables. It's important to meet people where they are in their eating habits and gradually introduce new foods. Environmental toxins, such as endocrine disruptors like BPA, can also contribute to insulin resistance. To mitigate this, try to minimize exposure by avoiding plastic containers and choosing fresh, whole foods whenever possible. Remember, a holistic approach to eating is key, allowing for occasional treats while focusing on the consistency of a nutrient-dense diet.
Reducing Exposure to Hormonal Disruptors: Using natural menstrual products, switching to eco-friendly laundry detergent, and storing food in glass jars or stainless steel containers can help reduce exposure to hormonal disruptors. Stay informed and make informed choices.
Exposure to synthetic chemicals from various sources, including menstrual products, plastic containers, and certain foods, can disrupt hormonal health, potentially contributing to conditions like obesity, cancer, and PCOS. While it may not be feasible to eliminate all plastic use or synthetic chemicals entirely, simple steps like using natural menstrual products, switching to more environmentally friendly laundry detergent, and storing food in glass jars or stainless steel containers can help reduce exposure. It's important to stay informed about the latest research on environmental pollutants and take proactive steps to minimize exposure, while also acknowledging the benefits of living in a city and enjoying occasional treats, like takeaway food, without excessive anxiety. As independent practitioners, it's our responsibility to weigh the evidence and provide informed advice to help individuals make informed choices about their health and the environment.
Misconceptions about estrogen dominance: Focus on reducing overall estrogen levels through lifestyle changes and medical interventions as needed, while being informed and critical of health information.
It's important to strike a balance between lifestyle choices and medical interventions when it comes to managing hormonal health conditions. The concept of "estrogen dominance" can be misleading, as the body is complex and the presence of excess estrogen doesn't necessarily mean that estrogen is "dominant." Instead, focusing on reducing overall estrogen levels through lifestyle changes and medical interventions as needed is key. Additionally, it's crucial to be informed and critical of health information, as misinformation can lead to harmful consequences. There is no need to adhere to strict labels or rules when it comes to health and wellness, and a balanced approach is often the most effective.
Recognizing Signs and Symptoms of Hormonal Disorders: Being aware of your body and recognizing signs of potential hormonal disorders like PCOS is crucial. Track your menstrual cycle, know symptoms like irregular periods, adult acne, hair growth, and weight gain, and don't hesitate to ask questions during medical appointments to ensure proper care.
Understanding your body and being aware of the signs and symptoms of potential hormonal disorders like PCOS is crucial for advocating for yourself during medical appointments. Misunderstandings and misuse of terminology can lead to incorrect assumptions about one's health. Knowing your body, tracking your menstrual cycle, and recognizing symptoms like irregular periods, adult acne, hair growth, and weight gain are essential steps in identifying potential hormonal imbalances. Additionally, being aware of medical bias and discrimination based on factors like race, sex, and size is important to ensure that you receive proper care and attention. Don't hesitate to ask questions, write down your concerns, and seek professional help if you suspect that you may have a hormonal condition.
Understanding the Complexities of PCOS: Healthcare professionals should approach PCOS with a holistic perspective, addressing various physical and mental health symptoms beyond weight loss, and utilizing evidence-based tools like telemedicine and telenutrition to improve patient care and outcomes.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition with various physical and mental health symptoms, including infertility, excess weight, period issues, mental health disorders like obsessive compulsive disorder and suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression, sleep issues, and skin changes. These symptoms often go undiagnosed or misunderstood due to societal stigma and lack of awareness. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these symptoms and take a holistic approach to patient care, focusing on health goals rather than weight loss. Telemedicine, at-home investigations, and telenutrition can be valuable tools in managing PCOS, but it's important to ensure that resources and services are evidence-based and expert-validated. Empowering patients with reliable information and resources can lead to better health outcomes and reduced healthcare utilization.
Empowering Patients with Lifestyle Changes for Better Health: Doctor's role is to provide clear guidance on healthy lifestyle choices, such as a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plant-based proteins, to reduce inflammation and improve health outcomes. Beans and other plant-based proteins are beneficial additions.
While medications are important for managing conditions like acne and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), lifestyle and behavioral changes should not be overlooked. It's crucial to provide people with clear guidance on what healthy lifestyle choices look like, as telling them to make changes without providing specifics can be unhelpful. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can prevent millions of deaths and help reduce inflammation, which is a common factor in various health conditions. Doctors should empower patients to take responsibility for their health while providing them with the necessary knowledge and resources. The art and science of medicine both play essential roles - the science informs the use of pharmaceuticals and nutritional medicine, while the art involves guiding patients to adopt sustainable, healthy lifestyles. Beans and other plant-based proteins are great additions to a diet focused on reducing inflammation and improving hormonal health.
Eating a Balanced Diet with Whole Grains, Legumes, Vegetables, and Soy: A healthy diet consists of various whole grains, legumes, vegetables, herbs/spices, and soy for optimal nutrition and blood sugar control.
A healthy diet includes a variety of whole, minimally processed grains such as brown rice, quinoa, barley, and oats. Legumes, which include beans, peas, and pulses, are also essential due to their high fiber and micronutrient content. Starchy vegetables like potatoes and sweet potatoes, as well as tubers and mushrooms, should be incorporated. Herbs and spices are important for adding flavor and stability to blood sugar levels. Focus on cooking at home, but don't be too hard on yourself if you need to use canned foods or have the occasional meal out. Soy, a versatile plant-based source of protein, is a healthy addition to the diet despite some negative press. Remember to prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods and give yourself time to adjust to a new way of eating.
Exploring the Health Benefits of Soy: Soy, rich in fiber, protein, and isoflavones, promotes bone health, reduces risk of osteoporosis, hot flashes, and certain cancers. Incorporating 2-4 portions daily can lead to these benefits.
Soy is a versatile food with numerous health benefits. It contains fiber, protein, micronutrients, and plant estrogens called isoflavones. These plant estrogens work on the beta receptors in cells, promoting bone growth and reducing the risk of osteoporosis, hot flashes, and certain types of cancer. Consuming 2-4 portions of soy every day, such as soy milk, edamame beans, tempeh burger, or tofu, can lead to these benefits without displacing other healthy foods. Soy does not need to be avoided due to its plant estrogens, but rather celebrated for its health advantages. Additionally, it's essential to note that cultural foods, including those rich in beans and legumes, can be adjusted to fit a plant-based diet. For those experiencing bloating while transitioning to a whole food plant-based diet, starting with smaller, more easily absorbed beans, ensuring they are completely cooked, and incorporating a diverse range of plant foods can help minimize discomfort.
Transitioning to a plant-based diet requires patience and gradual introduction: Patience and gradual introduction are key when transitioning to a plant-based diet. Properly cook beans, introduce new spices, and go slow to avoid digestive issues.
Transitioning to a plant-based diet requires patience and gradual introduction to avoid bloating and digestive issues. Undercooked beans can lead to stomach problems, so it's important to rinse canned beans, soak and cook them properly. Start with small amounts of beans and vegetables, and introduce new spices like hing or asafoetida to help reduce bloating. Avoid consuming large amounts of animal products all at once, as the gut microbiome can struggle to process plant-based foods if introduced too quickly. Instead, make the transition a journey, gradually increasing the amount and variety of plant-based foods in your diet. Remember, it's not about deprivation, but rather finding joy in the new foods you discover. As with any major lifestyle change, it's important to go slow and be patient with yourself. The speed at which you make the transition can greatly impact your experience, so take it one step at a time. And, as with weightlifting or running, don't expect to jump into a plant-based diet at its peak all at once. Instead, gradually build up your intake and find joy in the journey.
Focusing on other lifestyle pillars before nutrition: Identify areas for improvement by discussing sleep, stress, exercise, alcohol intake, smoking, and community support before diving into nutrition.
When working with patients on lifestyle changes for better health, it's important to approach the conversation in a way that makes them feel comfortable and not judged. Dr. Sri Ramaswamy shared her method of focusing on other lifestyle pillars before diving into nutrition. By asking about sleep, stress, exercise, alcohol intake, smoking, and community support, she can identify areas where her patients may need improvement and where they are most motivated. This approach allows for a more positive and effective conversation. Dr. Ramaswamy also emphasized the importance of understanding one's own biases and matching interventions to the individual's unique needs and motivations. She shared her personal journey of discovering the importance of lifestyle medicine and how it has brought joy and fulfillment to her career in medicine.
Finding joy through relationships, work, and self-care: Valuing family, work, and self-care contributes to a fulfilling life. Acknowledge challenges and seek support to maintain balance.
Finding joy and fulfillment in life comes from various sources, including personal relationships, professional achievements, and self-care. The speaker, a retired doctor, finds joy in her family, her love for the National Health Service, and helping others through her practice. She also values self-care, such as walking her dogs, watching light-hearted entertainment, and practicing gratitude. However, she emphasizes that everyone has ups and downs, and it's essential to acknowledge and address the challenges, such as anxiety and self-doubt, to lead a balanced and fulfilling life. The speaker's journey underscores the importance of self-reflection, seeking support, and striving for personal growth.
Focus on being your best self, not comparing: Sleep deprivation and comparison negatively impact well-being. Practice gratitude and understand uniqueness of life journeys. Therapists should consider cultural backgrounds and parenting styles for effective treatment. Focus on personal growth and happiness.
It's essential to focus on being the best version of yourself rather than comparing yourself to others. Sleep deprivation and competing with yourself or others can negatively impact your well-being. Instead, practice gratitude and understand that everyone's life journey is unique. Moreover, understanding the evolutionary roots of comparison can help us work towards healing it. Parenting styles and cultural backgrounds can also significantly influence our mindset, and therapists should be more aware of these nuances to provide effective treatment. Ultimately, we have one life to live, and it's crucial to make the most of it by focusing on our personal growth and happiness.
Understanding the impact of identity and experiences on pressure: Recognizing the historical stressors and their impact on underrepresented individuals is crucial for creating inclusive spaces and empowering them to make positive changes.
The experiences and identities of individuals, particularly those from underrepresented communities, can significantly impact their perception of pressure and influence their choices. Naina shared how her parents' Indian heritage and professions unintentionally put pressure on her and her sister to follow similar paths. This phenomenon, known as mimetic behavior, is often underappreciated and can have significant impacts on health and wellbeing. It's crucial to recognize and appreciate the historical stressors and their impact on current generations, as well as create platforms and opportunities for underrepresented individuals to see themselves represented and empowered to make positive changes. This conversation highlights the importance of understanding the complex ways in which identity and experiences shape our lives and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all.
