Do you know which is the most common hormonal disorder affecting women? Any guesses?
It’s none other than PCOS or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
PCOS is a hormonal imbalance and is the root cause of various health issues generally experienced by women in routine life. Teen girls and young women often complain of irregular, absent or heavy periods, unusual hair growth, rapid weight gain, mood swings, acne, etc.
Recent studies state that around 9.13% Indian adolescents are living with PCOS. And most noteworthy is almost 1 out of every 10 Indian women suffers from PCOS and out of every 10 women diagnosed, 6 are teenagers.
PCOS also forms a critical cause of infertility in women. Also, there are higher chances of miscarriages in pregnant women diagnosed with PCOS. This draws attention to the need for early diagnosis, lifestyle modifications, health counseling, dietary supplementation, and timely intervention.
Now let’s have a look why nutraceuticals have become highly sought-after in PCOS?
Nutraceuticals derived from food sources not only add to the nutritional value but also impart potential therapeutic benefits. Nutraceuticals have received significant interest and importance in recent years. The reason for their popularity lies in the fact that they can be used for a long period without serious side effects. At least, fewer side effects when compared to pharmaceuticals. This high margin of safety makes them important remedies for addressing multiple health issues.
Why L-Carnitine?
L-carnitine has gained immense attention as a leading fat loss supplement. It is, in fact, an amino acid that is naturally produced in the body. In simple words, it increases the energy expenditure out of fat molecules. It has already been considered as a must-have supplement by many of the fitness fanatics. However, it is less known that L-carnitine is potentially effective in subduing symptoms of PCOS. The food you eat is converted to glucose for final consumption by the body. Glucose is then being taken by the body cells for producing energy. This process is triggered by “insulin”, a hormone secreted by the pancreas. As a result, glucose levels in the blood decrease, staying within the normal range. Sometimes, the cells are unable to use insulin as effectively, leading to high blood sugar. This is known as “insulin resistance”.
Women with PCOS usually suffer from this. Insulin resistance is thought to be the primary cause of PCOS by many researchers. Overproduction of male hormones can also be induced by insulin resistance. L-carnitine improves insulin usage by cells and helps in lowering blood glucose. L-carnitine supplementation hence can cure many of the problems you are facing.
Weight loss is a major concern for PCOS patients. And, it is a well-known fact that obese people and PCOS patients have a significant L-carnitine deficiency. Hence, when combined with L-carnitine supplements, weight loss drugs yield better improvement in body weight and lipid profile. L-carnitine has a long way to go for sure!
L-Carnitine: A Safe Bet?
This nutrient is very safe and effective. It is well-tolerated by our body. Just confirm with your doctor regarding what dosage will suit you best. And you are good to go! Adverse effects are rare but may include mild abdominal discomfort, body odor, and seizures. Some women have experienced fishy odor in urine.
Drawing the Bottom Line
Polycystic ovarian syndrome has emerged as a serious health issue in women of reproductive age. Not only do women need to exercise more often, they also need to control blood sugar and insulin levels. Maintaining healthy lifestyle forms the mainstay of relief. Even 5% of weight loss results in curbing symptoms greatly.
And if you are still wondering how to deal with PCOS, there is this miracle nutrient, L-carnitine!