• #2
• October 2, 2024
• CHRONIC INFLAMMATION

Chronic Inflammation and Impact on Hormone Imbalance

Chronic inflammation plays a significant role in hormonal imbalances, particularly in women with PCOS. Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can lead to various health issues, including hormone disruption.

1. Chronic Inflammation and PCOS

Women with PCOS often experience low-grade chronic inflammation, which is both a cause and effect of hormonal imbalances:

• Elevated Insulin Levels: Inflammation can worsen insulin resistance, a common symptom of PCOS. High insulin levels increase androgen production, leading to hormonal imbalances that cause irregular periods, excess hair growth, and acne.
• Ovarian Dysfunction: Chronic inflammation affects ovarian function, disrupting ovulation and contributing to infertility in women with PCOS.
• Weight Gain: Inflammation contributes to obesity, and excess body fat further fuels inflammatory processes, creating a vicious cycle that worsens hormonal issues.

2. Impact on Hormone Imbalance

Chronic inflammation directly impacts hormone production and regulation in the following ways:

• Disrupted Estrogen Levels: Inflammation can interfere with estrogen metabolism, leading to irregular menstrual cycles and worsening PCOS symptoms.
• Increased Androgens: Chronic inflammation elevates androgen (male hormone) levels, contributing to hirsutism (excess facial/body hair), acne, and hair thinning in women with PCOS.
• Stress Hormone Dysregulation: Chronic inflammation often raises cortisol levels, exacerbating stress and further affecting hormone balance, which is already fragile in PCOS.

Reducing Inflammation to Balance Hormones

Adopting an anti-inflammatory lifestyle can help women with PCOS manage hormonal imbalances:

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Eating nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, and berries can reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity.
• Regular Exercise: Physical activity lowers inflammation while promoting hormonal balance and weight management.
• Stress Management: Mindfulness, meditation, and adequate sleep can reduce inflammation-related cortisol spikes, aiding hormone regulation.

By addressing chronic inflammation, women with PCOS can support healthier hormone levels and alleviate many symptoms of the condition.

NEXT EPISODE

EPISODE #3

Mental Health in Women with PCOS