Diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in my teenage years, I was instantly burdened with its myriad of symptoms: missed periods, weight gain, and unwanted facial hair growth due to heightened androgen levels. In attempts to manage these unwarranted changes, I was introduced to birth control pills. These pills, however, bore side effects of their own, inducing mood swings and hormonal imbalances that inadvertently chipped away at my self-esteem. The ensuing cycle of negative self-talk, eating disorders, and sleep problems rendered me perpetually discontent with my body and overall health.
The conventional medical approach I initially adopted offered little hope. Centered predominantly around medication and weight loss, it overlooked crucial elements such as nutrition and dietary guidance. While birth control pills were ubiquitously prescribed, they merely masked the symptoms without addressing their root causes. Moreover, the singular emphasis on weight loss proved to be an ineffective solution.
In search of real healing, I was prescribed Metformin, a medication aimed at managing blood sugar levels due to the insulin resistance associated with PCOS. While it brought temporary relief, the medication fell short of providing a sustainable long-term solution. My many health challenges persistently lingered, nudging me to explore ways to minimize my dependence on medication.
It was in the midst of this struggle that I stumbled upon functional medicine- a biology–based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease. I gained access to personalized nutrition plans and practical lifestyle changes, including the embrace of an alkaline diet and reduction of processed sugars and foods. To my surprise, my symptoms started to fade, and this new lifestyle became the cornerstone of my treatment. Connecting with a functional medicine doctor was particularly instrumental in healing my gut health, which had deteriorated over time, affecting digestion and significantly limiting my dietary options.
The holistic lifestyle changes I incorporated thanks to functional medicine not only allowed me to cease prescription medications but also gave me back my energy. I began to sleep better and my menstrual cycle normalized. The visible and invisible signs of improved physical health translated into renewed confidence and a significant enhancement in overall well-being.
Motivated by my own life-changing experience, I decided to become a certified health coach, specializing in nutrition and lifestyle changes for women dealing with PCOS, Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, and IBS. My personal journey revealed the incredible potential of holistic approaches in addressing health issues by considering the whole body, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to empower individuals to make informed choices about their health and help them reconnect with their bodies. I aspire to assist others in finding holistic solutions that can significantly enhance their lives, just as they did for me.
