Conquering PCOS with the Power of Exercise
Imagine a woman reclaiming her health and vitality, despite the challenges of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is a common hormonal disorder affecting millions of women worldwide, characterized by irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen levels, and polycystic ovaries. While PCOS can be daunting, regular exercise offers a powerful tool to manage symptoms and promote long-term health and longevity.
Incidence and Mortality Rate
PCOS affects an estimated 8-13% of women of reproductive age globally. In Australia, approximately 12-21% of women are affected by this condition. Women with PCOS have a 47% increased risk of mortality compared to those without the condition, primarily due to associated health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Who is at Risk?
Women of reproductive age are most commonly affected by PCOS, particularly those with a family history of the condition. Other risk factors include insulin resistance, obesity, and high levels of androgens. PCOS can also lead to long-term health problems, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and endometrial cancer.
Risk Factors and Their Modifiability
While some risk factors for PCOS are beyond control, many are modifiable through lifestyle changes. Key modifiable risk factors include:
Physical Inactivity: Regular exercise can help manage weight, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce androgen levels.
Poor Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in whole foods, low in refined sugars, and high in fiber can help manage symptoms and improve overall health.
Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Reducing or eliminating these habits can significantly improve hormonal balance and reduce the risk of associated health issues.
Stress Management: Incorporating stress-reducing activities like yoga and meditation can improve mental well-being and support hormonal balance.
Benefits of Exercise for PCOS
Prevention and Management: Regular physical activity is crucial for managing PCOS symptoms and preventing long-term complications. Exercise helps regulate menstrual cycles, reduce insulin resistance, and lower androgen levels. Activities such as aerobic exercise, strength training, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are particularly effective.
Mental Health: Exercise also plays a significant role in improving mental health. Women with PCOS are at a higher risk of anxiety and depression, and regular physical activity can help alleviate these symptoms by boosting mood and reducing stress.
Longevity: By managing weight, improving cardiovascular health, and enhancing insulin sensitivity, exercise can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases associated with PCOS, thereby promoting longevity.
How Longevity Can Help You
As exercise physiologists, we understand the unique challenges faced by women with PCOS. We design personalised exercise programs tailored to your specific needs, focusing on safe and effective workouts that enhance overall well-being. Our goal is to help you manage PCOS symptoms, improve your quality of life, and promote long-term health and longevity.
If you or someone you know could benefit from our services, please contact us. Let us help you take control of your health and well-being today.
Ready to take the first step toward increasing your fitness and lifespan? Call Longevity Exercise Physiology Ascot Vale, Burwood, Casey, Castle Hill, Coburg, Drummoyne, Edgecliff, Five Dock, Gladesville, Gungahlin, Kingsgrove, Liverpool, Macarthur Campbelltown, Macarthur Tindall, Marrickville, Neutral Bay, Penrith, Pymble, Pyrmont, Randwick, Rhodes, Rosebery, Springfield, Yamanto today on 1300 964 002 to book your personalised session or a 15-minute free phone consultation.
Written by Admin
References
1: World Health Organization : Jean Hailes for Women’s Health : News Medical : Mayo Clinic : Johns Hopkins Medicine : Cleveland Clinic : Everyday Health : Frontiers in Endocrinology : Mayo Clinic : Cleveland Clinic : Johns Hopkins Medicine : Everyday Health