DEALING WITH PCOS, OBESITY & A PANDEMIC

A 38-year-old female presented with a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and obesity. She had attempted to lose weight through restrictive eating many times in her life resulting only in more weight gain and feelings of failure. She reports a poor relationship with food and her body image.

In addition, the pandemic meant she was now responsible for homeschooling her children which upended her exercise regimen. She came to The Nutrition Professionals because her life was full of stressors out of her control, and she did not know where to turn.

She was educated on sound nutrition principles, a supplement regimen beneficial for women with PCOS and regularly scheduled visits with her RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist). Together she and her RDN worked to develop creative solutions that fit into her life; this allowed her to incorporate physical movement, improve her relationship with food, better manage stress, and improve her diet.

This multi-faceted approach has brought about change in her life. She has lost 20 pounds so far, despite the multiple ‘barriers’ in her life and this approach has given her the freedom to make improved food choices without caving to the allure of the ‘quick fix’ of restrictive eating.

She has gained the confidence to trust that she can listen to her body and direct her life in a way that benefits her health and well-being. She has learned that small nutritional changes sustained over time bring big results. She is thriving in 2021!