Weight loss struggles in obese PCOS patients explained by FL Nurse Practitioner
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PCOS patients often struggle with obesity. Dr. Lynsey Johnson, DNP, FNP-C is a Florida Nurse Practitioner that can explain why weight loss is not easy in PCOS patients. Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) have higher levels of androgens (Hyperandrogenism). Testosterone is a type of androgen that causes symptoms such acne, unwanted hair growth, irregular periods, obesity, thinning scalp hair, and infertility. Increased testosterone increases insulin levels, which further increases androgen levels, causing increased fat deposition. The body copes with hyperandrogenism by removing excess androgens from the blood stream and storing them in fat. Weight gain increases both of these hormones synergistically, which furthers exacerbates this out of control cycle.
Insulin controls the body’s use of sugar or glucose. Over time excessive insulin is released causing insulin resistance of cells. The glucose cannot enter the cell and be used by the body. Instead, it stays in the blood. Insulin resistance can eventually lead to type 2 diabetes.
Historically, oral insulin sensitizer medications have been used to reduce insulin resistance or increase the body’s sensitivity to insulin allowing glucose to be used by the body, which reduces androgens. This improves fertility and the symptoms of hyperandrogenism and weight loss.
Schedule a PCOS Sisters Telehealth appointment (Available for patients in Florida) to determine what treatment is right for you at www.pcossisters.com. We are a PCOS specialized telehealth care clinic providing primary care and PCOS treatment for women throughout Florida. PCOS Sisters Treatment Program is derived from peer reviewed research and evidence based practice methods delivered by Nurse Practitioners.
Local offices:
Miami, FL
Tampa, FL
References:
1. Abdalla MA, Deshmukh H, Atkin S, Sathyapalan T. (2020) A review of therapeutic options for managing the metabolic aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome. Ther Adv Endocrinol Metab. 6;11:2042018820938305. doi: 10.1177/2042018820938305. PMID: 32670541; PMCID: PMC7338645.Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7338645/