PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age, estimated to affect around 1 in 10. Yet it remains widely misunderstood and poorly managed in conventional medicine, with most women offered only the pill or Metformin and told to lose weight.
The reality is that PCOS has multiple subtypes, each driven by different root mechanisms. For some women insulin resistance is the primary driver. For others it is inflammation, adrenal dysfunction or post-pill hormone disruption. Treating them all the same way is why so many women struggle to see results.
Nutritional therapy for PCOS starts with understanding which subtype you are dealing with and what is specifically driving your symptoms. From there, dietary and lifestyle interventions can be precisely targeted.
Irregular or absent periods
Difficulty conceiving
Excess hair growth on face, chest or abdomen
Hair thinning or loss on the scalp
Acne, particularly hormonal breakouts around the jaw
Weight gain or difficulty losing weight, particularly around the abdomen
Fatigue and blood sugar crashes
Mood changes, anxiety or low mood
The first step is identifying which drivers are most active for you. Insulin resistance is present in up to 70% of women with PCOS even at normal weight, and it is rarely picked up on standard blood tests unless specifically requested. Blood sugar regulation is therefore usually the foundation of any PCOS nutrition plan.
Alongside blood sugar, I look at inflammatory load, gut health, adrenal function and liver detoxification capacity, all of which influence androgen levels and cycle regularity. Diet, targeted supplements and lifestyle changes work together to address these drivers rather than masking symptoms.
Many of my PCOS clients see significant improvements in cycle regularity, skin, energy and mood within three to six months of following a personalised plan.
The DUTCH Complete measures androgen metabolites, cortisol patterns and oestrogen metabolism in detail, providing insights that a standard blood test simply cannot. It is particularly valuable for understanding the hormonal picture behind your specific PCOS subtype.
View DUTCH testingPCOS is a lifelong condition, but its symptoms are highly manageable through nutrition and lifestyle. Many women achieve regular cycles, clear skin, healthy weight and successful conception through targeted nutritional therapy. The goal is to address its drivers so it stops running your life.
Not necessarily. While blood sugar regulation is important in PCOS, low-carb is not the only approach and is not right for everyone. The appropriate dietary strategy depends on your specific subtype, your symptoms and your relationship with food.
Most clients start to notice changes in energy, skin and mood within four to eight weeks. Cycle changes typically take longer: three to six months is a realistic timeline for meaningful improvement in cycle regularity.
A free 20-minute call with Kat to understand your PCOS and identify the right approach for you.
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