Shows
PCOS Diva Podcast215- [Podcast with Dr. Barbara Paldus] Healing Hormonal acne from the inside - The gut connection215- [Podcast with Dr. Barbara Paldus] Healing Hormonal acne from the inside - The gut connection by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2025-07-1634 min
PCOS Diva Podcast213- [Elizabeth Dall] How to break the cycle of emotional eating and find balance with food213- [Elizabeth Dall] How to break the cycle of emotional eating and find balance with food by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2025-05-0131 min
PCOS Diva Podcast212- Traditional Chinese Medicine for Migraine Care [Podcast with Diane Ducarme]Diane Ducarme is the Founder & CEO of Migraine Heroes, is a leading figure in migraine investigation, blending the wisdom of Eastern Medicine with Western science and advanced technology to uncover the true roots of migraine disease.
Diane’s approach uniquely emphasizes adding functional foods instead of eliminating them, shifting away from restrictive practices to focus on nourishing the body. Diane’s dedication continues to transform lives, offering a holistic path to relief, resilience, and wellness for those navigating migraine disease.
Dr. Vinu and Diane discuss how 1 in 5 women have migraines and how migraines triple to quadruples for women once they reac...2025-03-1132 min
PCOS Diva PodcastEPISODE 211 - Women’s health and fertility - what your cycle is telling youEPISODE 211 - Women’s health and fertility - what your cycle is telling you by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2025-02-0331 min
PCOS Diva Podcast210 – Cheating your way to good health [Podcast with Dr. Dana Cohen]210 – Cheating your way to good health [Podcast with Dr. Dana Cohen] by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2024-10-2528 min
PCOS Diva Podcast204 – PCOS and Pregnancy (Podcast with Dr. Kela Smith)PCOS and Pregnancy (Podcast with Dr. Kela Smith) by Dr. Vinu Jyothi, MD, MPH.
Dr. Kela Smith is a Holistic-Integrative Fertility and Hormone Doctor. She founded The Hormone Puzzle Society and the Hormone Puzzle Society Educational Institute for Coaches. The Hormone Puzzle Society is a health hub for fertility, hormones, and pregnancy and through this platform Dr. Kela and her team work with women/couples coaching them on how to optimize their body/mind/spirit so they can get and stay pregnant, bring home a healthy baby, have an easy postpartum as well as eliminate symptoms of hormone imbalance.
Tune...2024-01-1828 min
PCOS Diva Podcast203 - How Your Gut Health Affects PCOS [Podcast with Dr. Robin Rose]203 - How Your Gut Health Affects PCOS [Podcast with Dr. Robin Rose] by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2023-12-0634 min
PCOS Diva Podcast202 – EATING DISORDER & OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD [PODCAST WITH LYDIA KNIGHT]Binge eating can be a common issue with PCOS because of our hormonal imbalances. Binge eating is also considered a disordered eating habit. Disordered eating, a circumstance that affects up to 75% of women. Lydia Knight is a certified health coach and eating disorder expert. On today’s podcast, Dr. Vinu talks with Lydia Knight about how our relationship with food affects our eating habits and how to change our eating habits and thought processes about food and dieting. | Read More on PCOS Diva2023-11-0135 min
PCOS Diva PodcastPCOS Infertility Success Story with Megan KophamerOn today’s podcast, Dr. Vinu talks with Megan Kophamer about how she healed her PCOS and how she was able to get pregnant through diet, chiropractic care and lifestyle changes that she learned using the PCOS Diva Jumpstart program.
Megan is a stay-at-home mom of 3 who was diagnosed with PCOS when she was 20 and had some fears that she might not be able to have children. Listen in as she shares how she overcame her PCOS and was able to get pregnant.2023-10-1728 min
PCOS Diva Podcast[200] Gut Health, Sleep & Reclaiming Your Health - Podcast Interview with Dr. Gary Kaplan[200] Gut Health, Sleep & Reclaiming Your Health - Podcast Interview with Dr. Gary Kaplan by Amy Medling & Vinu Jyothi2023-08-1843 min
PCOS Diva Podcast[TEST VERSION] Dr. Brighten Podcast 2023[TEST VERSION] Dr. Brighten Podcast 2023 by Amy Medling2023-05-0232 min
PCOS Diva Podcast196 - PMS, Breast Health & Estrogen Dominance [Podcast with Magdalena Wszelaki]We're so excited to have Magdalena Wszelaki back on the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss all things breast health with Amy Medling.
Magdalena is an endocrine specialist, chef, certified nutrition coach, herbalist, speaker, and educator. Magdalena has personally battled with Graves’, Hashimoto’s, adrenal fatigue, Estrogen Dominance, and years of digestive issues. Her journey led her to look holistically at what causes hormonal imbalances in women and to inspire other women to take care of their health and hormones.
Magdalena has worked with women who deal with hormonal imbalances and has found that it is rare to see a woman suff...2023-04-1136 min
PCOS Diva PodcastAmy interview with Dr. Vinu JyothiOn today's podcast, we get to know Dr. Vinu Jyothi, MD, MPH. Dr. Vinu is our newest member of the PCOS Diva Team. She is a physician-researcher, public health advocate, medical reviewer and women's health advocate with a passion for healing PCOS naturally.
In this podcast, Amy interviews Dr. Vinu. Here, Amy and Dr. Vinu both share a passion for holistic PCOS healing. Listen in as we get to know Dr. Vinu and hear about her personal journey with PCOS. She shares what helped her heal her PCOS symptoms and she discusses the importance of sleep, diet, intermittent fasting and m...2023-03-2235 min
PCOS Diva Podcast193. How PCOS Affects Menopause & Fertility [Podcast with Dr. Poppy Daniels]Amy and co-host Dr. Vinu Jyothi interview Dr. Poppy Daniels. Dr. Poppy is an OBGYN and specializes in bioidentical hormone therapy, integrative thyroid treatment, and holistic health.
On today's podcast, Dr. Poppy explains the effects the pandemic has had on women with PCOS and the fertility effects in both men and women of childbearing age. She explains what she has personally seen in her fertility clinic and the types of treatments.
Listen in as we discuss:
Types of treatments for PCOS during menopause
How to tell the difference between "regular" PCOS symptoms vs starting menopause
Saliva hormone testing vs blood...2023-02-2451 min
PCOS Diva Podcast192. The Vagus Nerve, Anxiety & Tools to Manage Stress [Podcast with Jessica Maguire]Women with PCOS tend to have an upregulated nervous system. This means there is more nerve cell firing, making it harder for your body to relax after a stressful situation. It's important to know the role of the vagas nerve and how it affects the way your body processes stress.
Amy has invited Jessica Maguire on the PCOS Diva Podcast. Jessica is a knowledgeable Trauma Informed Physiotherapist. Her specialty is teaching patients about the vagus nerve and how stress-related illnesses such as anxiety, depression, and autoimmune issues can arise from dysregulation after chronic or traumatic stress.
In this episode, Amy...2023-02-1535 min
PCOS Diva Podcast190 - Overcome PCOS Fertility ChallengesToday we'll be talking about pathways to pregnancy with bestselling author, international speaker, acupuncturist, and high-performance coach Mary Wong.
Mary is the founder of Alive Holistic Health, which combines traditional Chinese medicine with Western science to nurture the body and soul. She has helped over 10,000 women in counting overcome infertility, PCOS, and other health challenges.
In her book - Pathways to Pregnancy - she explains the power of combining Western and Eastern medicine to improve your chances of having a baby. In her book she shares peoples real stories so that women can feel empowered, have hope, not feel alone...2023-01-2039 min
PCOS Diva Podcast147- Epstein-Barr Virus the Root of Your Symptoms?If you have PCOS and also struggle with autoimmune issues like Hashimoto's, IBS, celiac, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, or chronic fatigue syndrome, then this episode is for you. Dr. Kasia Kines, one of the world’s leading experts on the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Amy discuss the possible underlying factor of all of those autoimmune issues, as well as other symptoms that you haven't really been able to get to the root of such as celiac, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, IBD, and diabetes. Did you have mononucleosis (mono) in your youth? Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- What is...2020-12-2138 min
PCOS Diva Podcast139 - Find Your Peace and Joy Outside of CircumstanceNicole Zasowski is a marriage and family therapist, and in her new book, Nicole shares her story as she helps find an enduring peace and joy outside of circumstance. Many of us have felt lost after a diagnosis. We've struggled with symptoms and suffered difficulties getting pregnant and maybe even had a miscarriage. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- Keeping perfectionism in check
- Antidotes to anxiety
- 3 things to keep in mind to feel secure in an unsafe or stressful situation
- Seeking the positive2020-08-0638 min
PCOS Diva Podcast138- New Research Finds 3 Unique PCOS Cycles. What Does That Mean for You?Being a PCOS Diva is centered upon empowering yourself with information so that you can take better control of your PCOS. That information can come from many sources, but there's no better information than the data that your cycles (or lack thereof) give you every month. Cycle tracking is how I discovered I had PCOS and it’s an excellent way to track fertility as well as diet, supplement, and lifestyle changes.
But it is not always simple to track your cycle with PCOS. Most predictor kits don't work for us. In fact, many PCOS patients are told by their do...2020-07-2232 min
PCOS Diva Podcast137 - Why Intermittent Fasting Works for PCOSIntermittent fasting or time-restricted eating (TRE) is not a fad. It is a way of eating that has existed for millennia. Is it right for women with PCOS? Dr. Nadia Pateguana explains why it may be the best option for women with PCOS who wish to lose weight and/or balance their hormones. What are the benefits? What are the risks? Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- Intermittent fasting and PCOS
- The optimal diet for PCOS
- Fasting periods- why fasting longer isn't necessarily better
- Is it safe to fast with a history of...2020-06-1744 min
PCOS Diva Podcast136-Measuring & Managing PCOSDr. Anna Cabeca is a perfect person to talk to about diet and lifestyle for PCOS. Not only is she triple board certified and a fellow of gynecology and obstetrics, integrative medicine, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine, she has special certifications in functional medicine, sexual health, and bio identical hormone replacement therapy. Whether you are TTC, struggling with perimenopause or menopause, or simply trying to get your PCOS under control, this podcast is for you. Listen in or read the transcript as we discuss:
- Hormones and mental health
- The power of gratitude & mindset
- Intermittent fasting
- Alkalinity...2020-06-0441 min
PCOS Diva Podcast135 - Your PCOS & Ovulation Questions AnsweredAnovulation (lack of ovulation) is one of the hallmarks of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), but it is widely misunderstood. Award winning Fertility Specialist Dr. Rashmi Kudesia returns to the podcast to break down the basics of ovulation, dispel some mythology, and answer some of the most commonly asked questions. Whether you are trying to conceive or just figure out what is going on, tune in (or read the transcript) and learn:
- Why your period may be heavy, long, short, or non-existent
- Ways to increase chances of ovulation
- Supplements & herbs that can help
- The impact of gestational...2020-05-2845 min
PCOS Diva Podcast134- Becoming Pregnant Naturally & Avoiding Miscarriage with PCOSDr. Aumatma Shah, ND is a naturopathic doctor, nutritionist, and author. She specializes in helping women naturally boost their fertility and stay pregnant and healthy. Miscarriage is a difficult topic, and her practical and compassionate approach to not only getting pregnant, but maintaining a healthy pregnancy, even after prior miscarriage will resonate with many of us. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- Managing underlying health conditions: IR, hypothyroid, hormonal imbalance, MTHFR mutation, & blood clotting
- How to advocate for tests (including genetic factors) and progesterone therapy
- Folate v. folic acid and the risks of supplements...2020-05-1745 min
PCOS Diva Podcast133 - Fix Your PeriodShe’s back! Nicole Jardim, certified women’s health coach and co-host of the podcast The Period Party has a brand-new book out in which she outlines her step-by-step natural protocol for hormone balance and to improve everything from PMS, period pain, and heavy periods to irregular cycles and missing periods. Listen in (or read the transcript) as Nicole returns to the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss this and much more including:
- Thyroid, lab tests to request, and the impact of subclinical hypothyroidism
- Why it is crucial for us to understand root causes of period problems
- Misdiagnosis of PC...2020-05-1039 min
PCOS Diva Podcast132 - A PCOS Diva's Guide to Choosing WineBeing a PCOS Diva is about creating a sustainable, healthy lifestyle that can help manage symptoms and heal your body long term. If somebody told me that I could never enjoy a glass of wine with a good meal or a special occasion, that just wouldn't be sustainable for me. There must be room in the PCOS Diva lifestyle for an occasional mindful indulgence. So, when PCOS Divas ask me if it is ok to have a glass of wine, my answer is YES, in moderation of course, but we also must be PCOS Divas about the wine we drink...2020-04-2632 min
PCOS Diva Podcast131- Your Brain on Birth ControlIt is so important for all women to understand the benefits and risks (beyond nutrient deficiencies and blood clots) of the birth control pill. This tiny tablet that has the potential to empower us in many ways is often prescribed without an explanation of the effect on your brain. The research is clear- the pill changes women. Though women go on the pill for a handful of targeted reasons—such as pregnancy prevention and clearer skin—sex hormones don’t work that way. Sex hormones impact the activities of billions of cells in the body at once, many of which are in...2020-04-0943 min
PCOS Diva PodcastSeeing Red- What Your Period Is Trying to Tell You About Your Health & FertilityKirsten Karchmer is dedicated to helping women improve their health, menstrual cycles, and fertility. Her focus is on integrative medicine, and she visits the PCOS Diva podcast to discuss the power of the menstrual cycle to help women with PCOS understand what is misaligned and how to bring the entire system into balance. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- How to integrate the best of Chinese medicine, Western medicine, mindfulness, mindset, diet, and exercise
- Impact of diet (vegan, keto, etc.) on menstruation
- The specific menstrual cycle presentation for pregnancy success
- Signals your period...2020-04-0249 min
PCOS Diva Podcast129 - Naturally Treat the Root Cause of Your PCOS“You can eat perfectly, and if you don't get those circadian rhythms in line, that leptin, ghrelin, that hunger-full satiety center will disregulate. If it does and you develop leptin resistance where the central nervous system and leptin don't talk, no matter what you try to do, your system will be dysregulated, your weight will be a problem, your hormones will be a problem, your fertility will be an issue.” – Dr. Dian Ginsberg
There is a reason you have PCOS. Our ancestors developed it as a survival mechanism. Now those mechanisms are at odds with modern lifestyle conditions. Dr. Dian Ginsbe...2020-02-2739 min
PCOS Diva Podcast128 - Master Your PCOS GeneticsThere is, without a doubt, a genetic component of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). But did you know that the latest research says there is something we can do about it? The field of epigenetics is growing fast, and we are learning to control how genetics behave and even how things are transmitted from generation to generation. Listen in (or read the transcript) as Dr. Fiona McCulloch and I discuss:
- What is epigenetics?
- Tips for changing how your genes are expressed
- The profound impact of a father’s genetics & health on a child's health
- Why the 1 year be...2020-02-0537 min
PCOS Diva Podcast127 - PCOS Meal Planning with a ProI can't stress enough that the more that you plan, the more that you get yourself prepared and organized, the more likely you are to succeed with your PCOS-friendly diet. You might initially feel uncomfortable because you're just not used to being in the kitchen and preparing your food from scratch. But it's going to make such a huge difference in the way that you feel and your PCOS symptoms, that you will begin to love it. And the best way to do that is to just get into the kitchen and start doing it!
In this podcast, I offer...2020-01-2330 min
PCOS Diva Podcast126 - Find Happiness for Healing and, Well, HappinessMany women with PCOS put happiness on hold. “I will be happy when I lose the weight,” “when I have a baby,” “when I get a new job,” etc. The truth is, we cannot wait. Happiness has a metabolic effect. Our health literally depends upon choosing happiness now. Margie Bissinger is an expert in this area and explains how we can take steps every day to enhance our happiness.2019-12-1937 min
PCOS Diva Podcast125 - CBD for PCOS- Is It Right for You?Is CBD effective for PCOS? Many believe that CBD can help with symptoms such as chronic pelvic pain, anxiety, inflammation, and some autoimmune issues. I asked Dr. Mary Clifton, a respected expert in CBD, cannabis, and medical marijuana for her thoughts. If you’ve considered CBD, but are having a hard time finding reliable information, you are not alone.
Listen in as we discuss:
- How long to try it before deciding if it works for you
- Best modes of delivery
- How to find a good product
- Difference between CBD and Marijuana
- Will it show up on...2019-12-1345 min
PCOS Diva Podcast124 - End Your Emotional EatingLet’s talk about emotional eating. You've tried everything to get your cravings under control. You manage your blood sugar. You take supplements like berberine and Ovasitol. You are eating a clean, PCOS-friendly diet, and you're still struggling with binge eating or compulsive overeating. If you're really struggling with sugar cravings and having a hard time getting your eating under control, listen as I talk with Tricia Nelson, author of the book Heal Your Hunger. She has fantastic insight about the causes of emotional eating and offers practical strategies for getting it under control.2019-11-1440 min
PCOS Diva Podcast123 - Low-Dose Immunotherapy for PCOSGut health is central to many of our body’s critical functions such as hormone regulation and managing the immune system, as well as digestive and neurological systems. Dr. Meaghan Kirschling has had tremendous success in her practice using low-dose immunotherapy for treatment of certain symptoms of PCOS and much more. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- The connection between PCOS and autoimmune issues (such as Hashimoto’s)
- How immunotherapy works
- The differences between Low-Dose Immunotherapy (LDI), Low-Dose Allergen (LDA), & Low-Dose Naltrexone
- The connection between PCOS, endometriosis, yeast, and candida
- Gut Health and...2019-10-3142 min
PCOS Diva PodcastPCOS & Hair Issues: Why it is and What to do! - Ep 122Hair issues are near and dear to my heart. Whether it is losing hair on the head or growing it in unwanted places, it is a struggle that many of us face. Women with PCOS are 60% more likely to have mood related disorders. And I know for me, when I was struggling with hair loss, it really added to my sense of depression and isolation, and it exacerbated those emotional issues. So, I invited Dr. Michelle Jeffries back to give us some answers about why we experience hair loss and what we can do about it.
We discuss:
- Types...2019-10-1747 min
PCOS Diva PodcastChildhood Trauma & PCOS with Dr. Keesha EwersDr. Keesha Ewers understands the connection between childhood trauma PCOS. In her work, she helps women reverse autoimmune disease, heal their childhood trauma, and make friends with the women they see in the mirror. During our interview, she breaks down how to go processing childhood trauma in order to begin healing your chronic illness. Her five step approach helps patients move from batting themselves mentally and physically to finding peace and calm. Listen in (or read the transcript) she shares her process and a helpful tool to get through our most stressful moments.2019-10-0447 min
PCOS Diva PodcastPCOS Questions & Answers- 120One of my favorite things to do is directly answer PCOS Divas’ questions. Recently, I took a survey of what Divas would like to know, and I have answered the most commonly asked here, in this podcast. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss topics such as the “ideal” PCOS diet, signs & symptoms no one talks about, chiropractic benefits, PCOS-friendly alcohol, supplement choices, and herbs to replace Clomid, to name just a few.2019-09-1735 min
PCOS Diva PodcastBioidentical Hormones for Pregnancy & Menopause - Ep. 119Has your doctor spoken with you about taking progesterone? Are you entering menopause and considering natural hormone replacement therapy? Dr. Anu Arasu specializes in treating a variety of hormonal imbalances with bioidentical hormones and a holistic, functional medicine approach. We discuss her approach to hormonal replacement therapy for women with PCOS and much more.
- Connection between inflammation, weight gain, and hormones
- Suggested tests to get to the root of your hormonal imbalance
- Provera vs. non-synthetic option
- The role of cortisol (especially in lean PCOS)
- When to sleep2019-09-0534 min
PCOS Diva PodcastWhat You Need to Know About PCOS, Fertility, & Pregnancy - 118If you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, you may have been told, "It’s going to be very difficult for you to have children," or even, "You won't have children." Dr. Mark Trolice is here to tell you that is not necessarily true. Dr. Trolice is the Director of Fertility Care at the IVF Center in Winter Park, Florida, and is a double board-certified doctor in reproductive endocrinology and fertility as well as an OB/GYN. He spends a lot of time advocating for women with PCOS on a national level as well as helping them to conceive and have heal...2019-08-2248 min
PCOS Diva PodcastPractical Tips for Healing PCOS Acne - 117PCOS and acne go hand-in-hand. As a board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Michelle Jeffries is often the first doctor to pick up on the signs and symptoms of PCOS and start making the connection. Her integrative approach is a refreshing and effective method for treating acne and healing a patient’s mind, body, and spirit. In this podcast, she shares her practical advice for getting to the root of your acne (usually hormones, inflammation, stress, products, or sleep) and working with your body to calm it. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- the 3 foods to eliminate first
- pr...2019-08-1541 min
PCOS Diva Podcast116 - Overcome PCOS & Estrogen Dominance NaturallyIf you have PCOS and are estrogen dominant, you struggle with symptoms like acne, hair loss, hair growth, irregular cycles, irritability, storing fat around your hips and your thighs, thyroid nodules, estrogenic cancers, fibrocystic breasts, very sore or lumpy breasts, bloating, PMS, anovulation, mood swings, fibroids- the list goes on. Sound familiar?
Magdalena Wszelaki can help. She brings to life the idea of food as medicine and offers simple, real-world/real-food solutions to estrogen dominance and other hormonal imbalance issues. Estrogen imbalance plays a major role in PCOS, so this is a podcast episode not to be missed. Listen (or r...2019-07-2641 min
PCOS Diva Podcast115 - PCOS S.O.S. - A New Guide to PCOSPCOS expert and integrative physician, Dr. Felice Gersh has published a brilliant new book called “PCOS S.O.S., A Gynecologist's Lifeline to Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones, and Happiness”. It is best described as a complete guide addressing the symptoms of PCOS and how women with the disorder can lead happy and healthier lives. Dr. Gersh is dedicated to educating women and health care providers about how to best discover and treat the underlying causes of PCOS. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss her book and much more including:
- The family connection of PCOS
- Why...2019-06-2645 min
PCOS Diva Podcast114 - PCOS Advocacy News & OpportunitiesSasha Ottey is at the forefront of PCOS advocacy. She and her non-profit organization, PCOS Challenge, lead the way in furthering the causes of research funding, patient and doctor education, and community awareness. If you are wondering what is happening in the world of PCOS and how to get involved in a large or small way, tune in as we discuss:
- PCOS Challenge’s mission and offerings
- The PCOS Diva/PCOS Challenge Confidence Grant and a new one coming soon
- Advocacy Day in Washington DC & how to be involved there or at home
- Opportunities to get in...2019-06-2044 min
PCOS Diva Podcast113 - Reset Your HormonesFor women trying to balance hormones with PCOS, the advice is typically to eat less and exercise more. Not only is that not particularly clear or helpful, it isn’t necessarily true. Since we struggle with both insulin resistance and inflammation, we need to be especially careful about the exercise and PCOS-friendly diet we choose. Dr. Brooke Kalanick offers practical advice on how to balance your hormones in a realistic and sustainable way. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- Her favorite exercise for improving insulin sensitivity
- How cortisol effects our hormones and the signs of it...2019-06-1344 min
PCOS Diva Podcast112 - Find YOUR “Best PCOS Diet”There are a lot of people out there willing to tell you the best diet for PCOS. Many of them are well meaning, telling the story of what worked for them. As a result, there is a lot of confusion. Should we all eat Keto or vegan? Try intermittent fasting, low carb, no carb? The truth is this: There Is No Best PCOS Diet. It is entirely individual. Registered Dietician Martha McKittrick explains why that is true and the steps you can take to find the diet that works for you. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
...2019-05-3044 min
PCOS Diva Podcast111 -The Most Common Mistakes with PCOSI admit, acupuncture was one of my last resort therapies when I was really struggling with PCOS. I had tried countless pharmaceuticals and diets, but when I went to acupuncture, I saw a real difference. Dr. Farrar Duro practices reproductive acupuncture and shares some of the most common mistakes women make when living with PCOS. Tune in as we discuss those mistakes as well as:
- What to ask your doctor about your labs and treatment options
- The question to ask before you start any diet
- How Chinese medicine and acupuncture can help PCOS symptoms
- Resource for...2019-05-1442 min
PCOS Diva Podcast110 - Overcome PCOS FatigueOne of the most common and frustrating symptoms of PCOS is fatigue. We're tired. We have no energy. Relief is here! Karen Deichmann shares her secrets for boosting energy and what we can do to flip the switch when we're feeling drained. She identifies 5 major sources of energy and explains in simple terms how to amplify them so we can thrive each day. Her practical visualizations, tips and tricks will change how you move through your day and life.2019-05-0240 min
PCOS Diva Podcast109 - The Magic, All-Natural "Mood Boosting" Pill"The most transformative thing that you and I and everybody else in the world can do for our brain health is exercise. It ignites all the key neurotransmitters in our brain. These neurotransmitters are related to our depression, to our sense of accomplishment, to our concentration, to our focus." - Maria Hortsmann60% of women with PCOS have some mood-related disorder. Maria Hortsmann has your magic pill - exercise. Before you roll your eyes and move on, listen as she explains the neurological connection between your movement and neurological activity. She offers straight forward advice about getting and staying motivated, and...2019-04-1854 min
PCOS Diva Podcast108 - Overcome PCOS Fatigue & Boost Your Energy“Women with PCOS definitely have more of an uphill battle than the average person who's perfectly healthy, but it's perfectly possible to be extremely healthy with PCOS and to have normal levels of most hormones and neurotransmitters.”
-Ari Whitten
Overwhelming fatigue is one of the really troubling symptoms for many of us with PCOS. In fact, roughly 20 to 40% of the general population is dealing with mild to moderate chronic fatigue. Ari Whitten is a well-known expert on fatigue and how to overcome it. He offers information and advice that we aren’t getting from our doctors. His insights into the true r...2019-04-0448 min
PCOS Diva Podcast107 - The Healing Diet for Hashimoto's Thyroidosis, PCOS, and MoreDid you know that women with PCOS are three times more likely to have an autoimmune version of thyroid disease called Hashimoto's Thyroidosis? And many of the symptoms and remedies overlap closely with PCOS. Dr. Izabella Wentz is an internationally acclaimed thyroid specialist and licensed pharmacist who has dedicated her career to addressing the root causes of autoimmune thyroid disease. She joins the podcast to discuss how food can be used as medicine and much more. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- the symptoms of Hashimoto’s Thyroidosis
- thyroid labs to request and why TSH te...2019-03-2131 min
PCOS Diva Podcast106 - Tea is Strong Medicine"If you really want to experience the health benefits, you're drinking it at least once a day, possibly three to 10 times a day. When you're consuming something in that quantity, and with that regularity, then the purity becomes as important as the purity of your water."
- Simon Cheng
The research is clear, tea is strong medicine. I use tea to lessen anxiety and balance my blood sugar, but that’s just the tip of iceberg. Tea expert, Simon Cheng shares his remarkable story of healing as well as his wisdom about medicinal uses for tea. Listen in (or read th...2019-03-1438 min
PCOS Diva Podcast105 - How to Minimize Your Risk On the Birth Control PillIf you are a woman with PCOS and/or you're using hormonal birth control, listen in (or read the transcript) because this podcast is for you. Dr. Jolene Brighten is the leading expert in post-birth control syndrome and the long-term side effects associated with hormonal contraceptives. She’s also the author of a brand-new book, Beyond the Pill. While we both agree that it is a woman's right to take the birth control pill, it is also her right to understand how to take care of her body while she takes it, what those potential side effects are, and what sh...2019-03-0655 min
PCOS Diva Podcast104 - Heal, Stress Less, and Accomplish MoreToo stressed and busy for self-care? When we don't take time for self-care, our to-do list that might have taken us 5 hours before may take us 8 or 9. That stress is actually slowing us down. Worse, women with PCOS are much more sensitive to stress, and as a result, our cortisol levels are elevated, impacting our sex drive, fertility, immunity, inflammation, anxiety, and much more.
Emily Fletcher has reframed meditation as a performance and productivity tool, and her new book, Stress Less, Accomplish More, goes deeply into the neuroscience of why stress makes us stupid, why stress is making us sick, a...2019-03-0137 min
PCOS Diva Podcast103 - What Your Poop Says About You with Dr. MarisolMany women with PCOS suffer with digestion issues like IBS, bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. In this podcast, Dr. Marisol offers simple solutions for digestion issues that aggravate our PCOS and make us feel crummy. Her 5-step solution and suggestions for “micro-maneuvers” will help alleviate symptoms by getting to the root of the problem. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
What is the perfect poo?
What it means if you’re a hyper-wiper or your poo is very smelly
Why the birth control pill and metformin damage your gut and what to do about it
How fixing your g...2019-02-1938 min
PCOS Diva Podcast102- Manage PCOS Symptoms with Essential OilsIn this episode, we discuss one of my favorite things, using essential oils to soothe PCOS symptoms, with one of my favorite people, inspirational doctor and best-selling author, Dr. Mariza Snyder. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we take a deep dive into essential oils for managing PCOS including suggested blends to:
Manage hormones
Morning ritual/wake up
Elevate mood
Reduce fatigue
Energize
Reduce stress
Control sugar cravings
and Mariza’s “superwoman blend”2019-02-1537 min
PCOS Diva Podcast101 - Your Period- the 5th Vital SignLike any other vital sign, your menstrual cycle is an indicator of your overall health. If your cycle is falling outside of normal parameters on a regular, consistent basis, then that is a sign of something very specific happening health wise. Tracking my cycles was actually how I found out that I had PCOS. Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, certified fertility educator and holistic reproductive health practitioner, explains how to monitor this critical vital sign and what your pattern might be telling you. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
the menstrual cycle as a diagnostic tool
what a “normal cycle” look...2019-02-0752 min
PCOS Diva Podcast100 - Interview with the Original PCOS Diva“The underlying mission of PCOS Diva, isn't just to help women thrive with PCOS and reclaim their fertility, femininity, health, and happiness. It's to help women move beyond the pain and struggle of PCOS, so they can live the life that they were meant to live, and do the work that they were meant to do in this world without PCOS holding them back.”
In this, my 100th PCOS Diva podcast, we turn the tables. My husband, Cliff Medling, interviews me about my 10-year journey with PCOS Diva. If you’ve ever been curious about how PCOS Diva began, what my typ...2019-01-3048 min
PCOS Diva Podcast47 - Essential Oils for PCOS- How and What To UseWe're taking supplements, exercising, working on stress reduction, and eating clean. So where do essential oils fit in to our PCOS lifestyle? I use them as a part of my daily regimen. Research shows that oils can help with everything from insulin and blood sugar control to hormone balance, stress reduction, and even help decrease the cortisol that's prevalent with PCOS women. Essential oils can also help with other common PCOS symptoms such as GI inflammation, candida, yeast, anxiety, and depression. I invited Dr. Meaghan Kirschling to explain some of the basics. Listen as she explains:
How to choose the r...2019-01-3049 min
PCOS Diva Podcast99 - Take Control of Your PCOS Labs with Dr. Alan HopkinsI cannot overemphasize the importance of thorough lab work. The more information you have, the better decisions you will make, the better questions you will ask, the better care you can demand. On today’s podcast, Dr. Alan Hopkins discusses labs highly recommended for women with PCOS that you doctor may not have mentioned and explains to gravity of the ones they probably have already recommended. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
the basic PCOS labs
labs to request if you take metformin
importance of testing for the MTHFR genetic mutation, vitamin D, inflammation markers, and food se...2019-01-2943 min
PCOS Diva Podcast98 - Get On Track for the New YearYour 2019 mantra: “My health practitioners are absolutely important. They're integral to my journey. But I'm at the head of this helm.” – Melissa Christie
Will 2019 be your year? Melissa Christie shares practical wisdom and tools to help make this the year you see real improvement in your positivity and PCOS symptoms. It’s all about planning, tracking, and being mindful. Make this the year you improve your relationship with your body. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
- Her unique PCOS journey
- Tricks for managing bad habits & building sustainable positive ones
- Harnessing the power of reflection with an...2019-01-0439 min
PCOS Diva Podcast97- Hidden Triggers That Are Keeping You SickDr. Becky Campbell is a board-certified doctor of natural medicine with expertise in functional medicine and clinical nutrition. Her new book, "The 30-Day Thyroid Reset Plan" has great information for women with PCOS whether you have thyroid issues or not. Listen in as we discuss the 7 triggers that are keeping you sick. Get ready for an “ah-ha” moment or two as she connects the dots.
The leaky gut- thyroid link
What to do before checking for food sensitivities
The stress/sleep disruption/ insulin resistance/ inflammation connection
Suggested tests to tailor treatment2018-11-2934 min
PCOS Diva Podcast3 - Manage Holiday Sugar Cravings and the winter Blues with Dr. Corey SchulerWith the holidays upon us, I wanted to chat with nutrition and mood expert, Dr. Corey Schuler to see if he had some tips for us on how to manage Holiday sugar cravings and the Winter Blues. As I expected, he had some wonderful, practical ways to help keep cravings at bay and fend off depression and anxiety. Listen to the 30 minute interview below for all of the details!2018-11-2829 min
PCOS Diva Podcast96- PMS- Why You Get It and What to DoNicole Jardim is one of my favorite menstruation experts and co-host of The Period Party, a podcast that actually makes this sometimes-tough topic fun! Nicole joined the podcast today to break down Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) for us and answer the question, “Are Women with PCOS more likely to have PMS?” Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss this plus:
the root causes of PMS
the impact of stress, diet, nutrient deficiency, and environmental toxins
relationship to blood sugar instability, hypoglycemia, and hyperglycemia
how to lessen symptoms
possible triggers
fixes including what to eat and HOW to eat it2018-11-0139 min
PCOS Diva Podcast95 - Managing Breast Cancer with Energy, Empowerment, and GraceEvery woman has been touched by breast cancer. It may be you or someone you know or love, but all of us understand, on some level, the physical, emotional, and spiritual impact of the disease. Women with PCOS do not have a higher risk of breast cancer than our peers, though we do have a slightly higher risk of endometrial cancer. Carol Lourie has dedicated her professional life to supporting women and their health. Now, she has focused her efforts on managing cancer in a functional way. Listen (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
preparing yourself, your family, and...2018-10-2439 min
PCOS Diva Podcast94 - The Latest PCOS Research and Hot TopicsDr. Fiona McCullouch is one of my go-to naturopathic doctors when it comes to PCOS. Not only is her fantastic book, 8 Steps to Reverse Your PCOS, a “mini-encyclopedia” of PCOS, she is up-to-date on PCOS-related research. In this podcast episode, we discuss the latest PCOS news and topics including:
The anti-müllerian hormone study- is there a PCOS cure?
New research on the connections between mood, depression, and inflammation
Hyperthermia and the science behind why exercise improves our mood
Why women with insulin resistance need more selenium
Pros and cons of bariatric surgery and hysterectomy for PCOS2018-09-2034 min
PCOS Diva Podcast93 - Let's Talk About Lean PCOSMost women with PCOS are overweight, but it is not necessary to be overweight to have a PCOS diagnosis. Many of us have a version of the syndrome called Lean PCOS. We share all the other symptoms but are often overlooked when doctors are searching for the root of our symptoms. Listen in as lean cyster Dr. Laura Dimler Radziwon and I discuss our experiences with Lean PCOS and:
Androgen excess, insulin balance, and acne
The journey to find a diagnosis
The importance of exercise beyond weight loss
Managing perfectionism in diet, exercise, and everything else
How to balance stress...2018-09-1443 min
PCOS Diva Podcast92 - PCOS Advocacy Opportunities for Every WomanWomen who are seeking a diagnosis for PCOS will, on average, see two to three doctors before they get a diagnosis. Even after diagnosis, women with PCOS are simply told to lose weight, take a pill, and go on their way. That’s not ok. We deserve better care. Our daughters, sisters, and friends deserve better treatment. Ashley Levinson is a well-known PCOS advocate and joins the podcast to talk about the challenges facing women with PCOS and how we all can advocate for better research and education. Listen as we discuss:
- Issues such as the importance of early di...2018-08-3043 min
PCOS Diva Podcast91 - The Biggest PCOS Exercise Myth: Calories In-Calories OutMany women with PCOS have a combative relationship with their body and PCOS. We buy into the calories-in/calories-out myth and attempt to punish our bodies with exercise. PCOS trainer, Erika Volk visits the podcast to bust myths around PCOS and exercise as well as explain the far-reaching (and unexpected) benefits. Listen in as we discuss:
- Why exercise and strength training balance your blood sugar
- Exercising to regulate appetite, mood, and menstrual cycles, balance hormones, and more
- Why all calories are not created equal
- How you should feel after a workout
- Advice for athletes who...2018-08-2345 min
PCOS Diva Podcast90 - What Your Mouth Is Trying to Say About Your HealthDental health is clearly linked to PCOS and general health. In fact, the mouth is the first point that many issues start to present themselves. Bleeding gums, for instance, is one of the first signs of potential hormone and microbiome changes. Your mouth even communicates what type of vitamin deficiencies you may have. Dr. Steven Lin is on a mission to educate people about the connection between dental health and their overall wellbeing. Listen in as we discuss:
The connection between tooth decay & gum disease and digestive, immunity, and hormone problems, as well as Alzheimer's disease and dementia
The hierarchy...2018-08-0826 min
PCOS Diva Podcast89 - Diet Rules to Break (and Follow) for PCOS Weight Loss“I just felt like something was wrong with me. I didn't realize there's something wrong with the rules and the process that I was following. It just felt like I was flawed and here I was trying to lose weight and the only thing I was losing was self-worth and self-confidence.” -Cassie Bjork
Many dietitians are telling you what Coke (and other big food corporations) want you to hear. It’s not necessarily their fault. Outdated interpretations of unscientific data set many of the diet standards we are taught from childhood. Cassie Bjork is not your average dietitian. She is a glob...2018-07-2540 min
PCOS Diva Podcast88 - Endometriosis or PCOS? Getting the Right DiagnosisEndometriosis and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) share overlapping symptoms and are sometimes confused. In this podcast, endometriosis expert, Melissa Turner clears up the confusion and explains the symptoms of endometriosis, how to get a diagnosis, and possible paths to healing. Listen in as we also discuss:
- Three areas to focus on when treating endometriosis naturally
- Effectiveness of surgery
- Her REACH technique of managing endometriosis
- Nutrients you may be missing2018-06-1442 min
PCOS Diva Podcast87 - Straight Talk about PCOS, the Pill, and Post Pill SyndromeThe birth control pill is the standard prescription when a woman is diagnosed with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, typically without outlining the risks posed specifically for us. For many, it manages to mask PCOS symptoms. For others, the side effects are immediately intolerable. For all, symptoms resume when we must stop taking it. Worse, many struggle with Post Birth Control Pill Syndrome. So, what can we do? Dr. Jolene Brighten and I discuss this and much more in this podcast. Listen in or read the transcript.
- What is Post Pill Syndrome and what we can do about it?
- Testing...2018-05-2446 min
PCOS Diva Podcast86 - Beyond Calorie and Carb Counting: Functional Nutrition for PCOS“We are not what we eat. We are what our bodies can do with what we eat.” - Andrea Nakayama
Every person has unique biology and must be treated as such. Andrea Nakayama is a rock star in the field of functional nutrition. She teaches thousands of practitioners and patients a year how to use the principles of functional nutrition to personalize diet and healthcare and heal with sustainable results. In this podcast, Andrea explains functional nutrition, its benefits, and how you can get started.
Andrea Nakayama is a functional nutritionist and educator leading thousands of clients, students, and practitioners arou...2018-05-1637 min
PCOS Diva Podcast85 - Improving Quality of Life with PCOSWe all know that PCOS impacts the lives of the women who have it. Countless studies (and our own experience) have proven that. In this podcast, Dr. Rashmi Kudesia explains the impact of PCOS on our quality of life in five main interrelated areas: infertility, abnormal uterine bleeding or irregular periods, extra body or facial hair, weight issues, and emotional health and offers steps we can take to get on track both mentally and physically. Listen as we also discuss:
- Critical importance of sleep quality
- Tips on how to effectively advocate for yourself or your daughter
- Pros a...2018-05-1037 min
PCOS Diva Podcast84 - Ketogenic Diets and PCOS: Hope or Hype?What exactly is a ketogenic (keto) diet and why do people feel so strongly one way or the other about it? In this podcast, we discuss the pros and cons of keto diets, specifically for women with PCOS. Martha McKittrick reviews the current research, offers sage advice, and answers questions women commonly ask me about keto such as:
How is keto different from a low-carb diet?
Who should avoid keto and who should try it?
Is it sustainable?
Does keto dieting work for fertility?
What is the keto flu?
What should I know/do before I try it?2018-05-0344 min
PCOS Diva Podcast83- The Unexpected Ways Diet Impacts Your Health“The why is equally important because once you understand what goes on in the body and how food can impact the various parts of our body, that impact then the hormones, you are much more motivated to start making changes.” - Magdalena Wszelaki
Magdalena Wszelaki is one of my favorite podcast guests and the author of the brand-new book, Cooking for Hormone Balance. She rejoins the podcast to discuss her “three-legged stool approach" to hormonal balance and offer practical advice on how to use foods (including herbs) to manage your overall health as well as specific symptoms. Listen in (or read t...2018-04-1251 min
PCOS Diva Podcast82 - Healing with PCOS and Disordered Eating“75 percent of women report disordered eating behaviors or symptoms consistent with eating disorders; so, three out of four have an unhealthy relationship with food or their bodies” -University of North Carolina Medical School
Food is often at the center of discussions involving PCOS. It should come as no surprise that eating disorders are prevalent among those of us living with the syndrome. Carrie Forrest understands the struggle. Listen (or read the transcript) as she shares her story of recovery as well as some of the coping and healing mechanisms she has employed. Among other things, we discuss:
Possible triggers of eati...2018-04-0544 min
PCOS Diva Podcast81 - Managing PCOS, Dating, & RelationshipsPCOS directly or indirectly impacts all of your relationships. When you’re talking about romantic relationships, whether dating or committed, issues frequently come up around libido, infertility, self-image, depression, lifestyle, and self-care. From initial conversations to advocating for yourself when making diet and lifestyle changes, Dr. Gretchen Kubacky, the “PCOS Psychologist,” has useful advice. Listen in (or read the transcript) as we discuss:
Tips for getting your partner on board with your upgraded diet and lifestyle plan
Learning to be proactive in your self-care
How dating can help set expectations that support your health
Impact of emotional trauma and stress on phy...2018-03-2135 min
PCOS Diva Podcast80 - Body Belief- 3 Steps to Heal and ThriveLara Briden’s book, the Period Repair Manual, is a manifesto of natural treatment for better hormones and better periods. I recommend it all the time, so I am thrilled to have her on the podcast. Dr. Briden provides practical solutions using nutrition, supplements, and natural hormones. We both agree that ovulation matters for all women; it's not just about making babies. So, listen as we discuss:
Why a period on the birth control pill is not a true period
Diagnosis and misdiagnosis of PCOS
Why cutting carbs might not help
Why doctors in Australia may not (and should not) di...2018-03-1540 min
PCOS Diva Podcast79 - Body Belief- 3 Steps to Heal and Thrive with Amy RauppAimee Raupp and I agree- fertility isn't an on/off switch. It’s a spectrum. You might have lower fertility at certain times in your life, but it's improvable. It's changeable. It's not broken. You can heal. While there are many factors at play, we know that your thoughts not only impact your behavior, neuroscience demonstrates that our thoughts actually affect our neurochemistry. So, what we think can become a self-fulfilling prophecy. In her latest book, Body Belief, Aimee outlines 3 things you must do to heal and much, much more. Listen to today’s podcast (or read the transcript) as we d...2018-03-0841 min
PCOS Diva Podcast78 - Tips for Taking an Integrative Approach to Healing PCOS“It's very difficult to recover from PCOS with our standard societal approach, and it's very easy to feel isolated and alone, and then all these negative self-talk voices come in and you have a lot of shame and, "Why don't I look like this?", "Why can't I do that?" PCOS does not have to be a horrible sentence. It's a complex illness, but you absolutely can find the right tools and recover your health.” – Carol Lourie
Carol Lourie takes a holistic approach when treating her patients with PCOS. I love her visualization of the syndrome, comparing it to spokes on a whee...2018-03-0234 min
PCOS Diva Podcast77 - Overcoming Anxiety with Megan BuerAnxiety is something with which many women with PCOS struggle. Lifestyle and food choices can help alleviate it. But if your diet is good, you exercise, and you’re doing everything “right” and still struggling with anxiety, you may need to look deeper. Megan Buer, is an author and founder of Harmony Restored, a company focused on helping individuals heal from the stress that is at the root of their physical and emotional pain. She teaches people to harness the power of mindset and working through emotions while listening to their body’s signals. Listen in and see if this is the k...2018-02-2141 min
PCOS Diva Podcast76 - Talking to Your Daughter About PCOSMy daughter, Lila, is 9 years old, and I am starting to think more about whether she too will have PCOS. I hear from distraught mothers almost every day. Their daughter has been diagnosed, they are not sure how to help. My podcast guest today was in the same situation not long ago. I had the privilege to coach Linda Kochiu and her daughter, Sarah, through the initial stages of healing her PCOS. Sarah is now a thriving college student. Listen in (or read the transcript) and hear about their journey, learn from their story, and know there is hope and...2018-02-1934 min
PCOS Diva Podcast75 - Cutting Edge Reproductive Health Genetic Testing for PCOS and More"Core to making sure that you get the care that you need and deserve is to truly embrace that you are your own advocate for your care and ensuring that you have the right care team who share your commitment to always pushing the envelope and making sure that you're at the forefront of a better understanding of the technologies, tests, and treatments that can be out in the world and really exploring and understanding the importance of finding that right fit.” -Angie Lee, Chief Product Officer, Celmatix
The Fertilome test is the world's first multi-gene panel designed specifically to hel...2018-01-1722 min
PCOS Diva Podcast74 – Fix Your FatigueJanuary 14, 2018 Fatigue is one of the most common symptoms of PCOS. In this podcast, fatigue expert Dr. Evan Hirsch outlines the 15 underlying causes and offers practical advice on what you can do to fix your fatigue and start feeling energized. The relationship between hormones and sleep The role of nutrient deficiencies (magnesium, b12, vitamin D) Labs to request that get to the root of your fatigue The role of emotions and mindset.2018-01-1532 min
PCOS Diva Podcast73 – PCOS Lab Testing: Beyond the BasicsNovember 28, 2017 PCOS is complicated and a lot of women with PCOS have other things. They have thyroid issues, Hashimoto’s, or they have other autoimmune, or they have food intolerances, or just other stuff that ties into the PCOS or is worsening the PCOS, and they just need somebody who can orchestrate and dig deep.” – Dr. Carrie Jones It is important for women with a PCOS diagnosis to find the root of their PCOS symptoms. Only then can you find true, lasting relief. PCOS is a broad diagnosis, and testing beyond the basic blood and ultrasound tests is necessary to begin...2018-01-1534 min
PCOS Diva Podcast72 – What’s Your Vibe?November 6, 2017 Discoveries in quantum physics can be applied to nutrition, wellness, medicine, and the helping professions such as psychotherapy. Understanding vibrational frequency is fundamental to being happy and supercharged in your health, your work, and your relationships. You are vibrating right now. So is your liver, and your brain. So is whoever is sitting next to you. The words you speak have vibration. The food you eat. On the podcast today, Robyn Openshaw explains the power of vibration for women with PCOS. There is a vibrational connection around your food, your thoughts, the people that you spend time with. Harness...2018-01-1536 min
PCOS Diva Podcast71 – Managing Sugar Cravings & PCOSOctober 30, 2017 You have sugar cravings, and you often give in to them. Good news- there is a reason. It isn’t that you lack willpower, your body is betraying you, or that you are a weak person. It means something in your body is out of balance, either emotionally or physically. Many, many women with PCOS struggle with disordered eating- be it binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, or something else. Add to that the 43% of women who eat to manage emotion, and you have a real problem. Emotional eating expert and clinical nutritionist, Stephanie Dodier, visited the podcast to discuss: How to...2018-01-1530 min
PCOS Diva Podcast70 – The Dangers of DepoOctober 27, 2017 “Every woman should understand the short and long-term side effects, risks, and recovery. Otherwise, that isn’t informed consent.” -Dr. Poppy Daniels The Depo shot is a widely prescribed hormonal birth control which comes with a litany of possible life altering side effects that are not typically explained to patients before they begin taking the drug. One of my favorite podcast guests, Dr. Poppy, returns to explain the dangers as outlined in her book, The Dangers of Depo: The World’s Most Dangerous Birth Control. Even if you’re not on or considering Depo, listen in to learn more about the...2018-01-1553 min
PCOS Diva Podcast69 – A Powerful Tool for PCOS: Circle & BloomOctober 18, 2017 “What else can we be doing to tap into our self-healing capabilities? We can’t just accept and hand over this diagnosis that the doctor gives us. There’s so much more we can be doing that we have control over.” –Joanne Verkuilen- founder and creator of Circle and Bloom Your mind is a powerful thing. The science behind the mind-body connection and how your thinking generates physical response in the body is at the center of Circle and Bloom’s mission and programs. Joanne Verkuilen, founder and creator of Circle and Bloom joined the podcast to discuss how meditation a...2018-01-1535 min
PCOS Diva Podcast68 – Herbs for PCOSSeptember 21, 2017 “Herbs can play a beautiful role of really amplifying and speeding up the healing process so quickly.” My dear friend, health coach Magdalena Wszelaki shares some of her favorite herbs and spices with us and explains how they can help us heal our PCOS and balance hormones. Cinnamon is popular for managing sugar levels, but what type is best and how much do you use? Matcha Tea offers a sustained boost to your energy levels. What’s the best way to prepare it? Chasteberry (Vitex) is popular for restoring ovulation and regulating your luteal phase, but there are some who sh...2018-01-1537 min
PCOS Diva Podcast67 – Making the Connection: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis & PCOSSeptember 8, 2017 I receive questions almost every day about thyroid disease & PCOS. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and other thyroid issues are very common in women with PCOS, and many of us don’t even know we have it because it can take years to show up on a blood test. Hashimoto’s expert Shannon Garrett, explains that Hashimoto’s is a 3-legged stool and how you must balance thyroid, adrenal glands, and sex hormones to truly begin healing. Do you have Hashimoto’s? Listen in as we discuss: The connection of inflammation to Hashimoto’s and PCOS Lesser recognized symptoms of low level chroni...2018-01-1537 min
PCOS Diva Podcast66- My Favorite PCOS Fertility ToolAugust 29, 2017 If you regularly follow PCOS Diva, you know I love the OvuSense monitor. I am all for anything that puts knowledge and power in a woman’s own hands. Recently, I invited Rob Milnes, CEO of Fertility Focus which produces OvuSense, to the podcast to discuss exactly how OvuSense works and why women with PCOS should be especially interested (whether we are TTC or not). Rob has a great way of explaining, in simple terms, the science behind the role of progesterone and the luteal phase in a woman’s cycle as well as exactly how the OvuSense monitor work...2018-01-1527 min
PCOS Diva Podcast65 – Support PCOS Awareness!August 22, 2017 Did you know that only .0.1% of the National Institute of Health budget goes to PCOS research despite being the #1 hormone syndrome in women? Two major events are happening in the world of PCOS! Sasha Ottey, founder of PCOS Challenge, a leading patient support and advocacy group visited the podcast to share the news | Read More on PCOS Diva2018-01-1531 min
PCOS Diva Podcast64 – A Functional Approach to Treating PCOSJuly 27, 2017 “Think of PCOS symptoms like the rays of the sun. They’re all peripheral to that one pivotal central situation, which is your hormone imbalance.” -Dr. Margarita Ochoa-Maya, MD Dr. Margarita Ochoa-Maya, MD is a functional endocrinologist, author, PCOS Diva, and personal friend of mine. She joins the podcast to explain why a functional integrative approach to PCOS can be the most effective treatment. If you are looking for a way to treat PCOS which considers your type of PCOS and aims to treat the cause instead of only individual symptoms, listen in as we discuss: The difference between an end...2018-01-1540 min
PCOS Diva Podcast63 – Practical Tips to Tame Your PCOS InflammationMay 18, 2017 Inflammation is at the heart of many of your PCOS symptoms regardless of your body weight. Diet and lifestyle can play an important role in either increasing or decreasing inflammation. Today’s podcast guest, well-known registered dietician Martha McKittrick, shares her approach to help you tame the flames of inflammation with your diet and lifestyle choices. She offers practical and specific nutrition and lifestyle tips to decrease inflammation as well as info about what tests you should request for inflammation indicators and what you should consider when exercising. You will want to take notes on this one. Grab a pe...2018-01-1544 min
PCOS Diva Podcast62 – The Progesterone & PCOS ConnectionApril 14, 2017 Women with PCOS typically have low progesterone. Symptoms include absent, irregular or very heavy or long periods. Unfortunately, it also increases the risk of miscarriage. Whether you are TTC or not, it is important to get your progesterone balanced. Dr. Poppy joins the podcast today to explain why women with PCOS have low progesterone and what we can do about it. Listen in to this important conversation as we discuss: Why the pill is not a good long term choice for women with PCOS Progestin v. progesterone v. Provera Her pregnancy protocol for progesterone treatment What test you should...2018-01-1545 min
PCOS Diva Podcast61 – PCOS and Hashimoto’s Shared Healing ProtocolMarch 30, 2017 For me, it’s not about being on the perfect diet; it’s about tuning in to your body and figuring out what your body needs at this time and what’s not serving it. – Dr. Izabella Wentz Women with PCOS are three times more likely to have Hashimoto’s Disease, a condition in which your immune system attacks your thyroid and the most common cause of hypothyroidism. In fact, there is quite a lot of overlap between Hashimoto’s and PCOS (fatigue, weight challenges, changes in brain function, depression, feeling unmotivated, anxiety, panic attacks, constipation, hair loss). Dr. Izabella Wen...2018-01-1537 min
PCOS Diva Podcast60 – How to Balance PCOS, Exercise & HormonesMarch 21, 2017 “Every body is a good body, and we have to honor this body that we have. No one ever got anywhere, no one ever got happy, hating it into change. Embrace the body that you have and make it the best body it can be.” – Dr. Brooke Women with PCOS are prone to adrenal fatigue and hormone shifts, making exercise a tricky, though very necessary, thing. I asked Dr. Brooke, a well-known expert on metabolic nutrition, fat loss resistance and fitness to help us navigate the delicate balance between our hormones and exercise. During our conversation, we discuss what your s...2018-01-1541 min
PCOS Diva Podcast31 – The PCOS Pregnancy Secret: Being Fertility-FocusedDecember 30, 2015 The simple shift in focus from infertility to fertility can make all the difference when a woman with PCOS is trying to conceive, says Aimee Raupp, a well known author, acupuncturist, and herbalist. In her New York practice, Amy has treated countless women with PCOS who have found their fertility by embracing their physical and emotional health first. Listen as Aimee guides us through: the power of optimism and why it works how letting go of grief, fear and jealousy boosts your fertility the wisdom we can gain from the mind-body link of Chinese medicine how self-care prepares a...2018-01-1444 min