Hoping...Believing...Waiting: Helpful supplements ...

Sunday, December 18, 2011

Helpful supplements ...

Thought I would make a list here of the natural supplements I have been taking for a few years. I have felt a huge difference in my health since going to a herbalist/nutritionist and getting advice on things that help with PCOS, ttc.

Here is the list:

In the morning I do a green powder/protein drink. (My husband also does green drinks every day too) I use two different green powders and mix them 1/2 and 1/2. I then mix it with 100% no sugar added juice in a small blender. the protein powder I use is for inflammation as with having fibromyalgia and mild endometreosis it can help with pain keeping those inflammation levels at bay will help with IVF cycles too. Hemp protein powder is another good one or Hershey's Boost Protein in chocolate is good in milk.

UltraInflamX Plus 360

Dynamic Greens Berry Flavor *Certified Organic* w/ Acai, Gogi, Mangosteen, Noni & Pomegranate Super Fruits by Nutrition Dynamics

Pro-Greens

Other supplements I take during the day are:

Carlsons Cod Liver Oil
I take 2-5 a day or you can get liquid. I like this one as it is natural. - essential fatty acids like omega 3, 6 and 9 are incredibly essential towards a healthy heart and in an effective pcos weight loss, also reduces inflammation.

Solaray Calcium Magnesium Citrate with Vit D

Take 6 a day for 1,000mg - Vit D aids in preventing ovarian cysts formation and helps control glucose levels by minimizing insulin resistance. Calcium is also significant in keeping good insulin levels. Studies also show that extra calcium helps achieve an effective pcos weight loss plan. Magnesium may also be prescribed as a pcos medication. As a deficiency of the mineral may contribute to insulin resistance, and it has also been found as a helpful nutrient to combat migraines among patients.

Chromium Picolinate
I take 4 (500mcg) a day - can improve glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS

CoQ10-Alpha Lipoic Acid-Acetyl-L-Cartine
I take 2 a day - antioxidants are found to increase insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS—and to boost the ovulation and pregnancy rate of women with PCOS treated with a common fertility drug.

PreNatal Vitamin - I take 1 a day - I like these cause they are small and easy to take

B-12 and Biotin - The B group is helpful in keeping normal weight. Studies have shown that they help the body process glucose and fat into energy. It also projects good hormone balance. It's also good to take when on metformin as it can deplete you of B vitamins.

Been doing DHEA last two cycles to help with egg quality.
Taking 25mg 3xday. It is best to do it 4 weeks before you start but I just did it starting before stimming till day of ER then you stop as it is not safe to be on when pregnant.

I also take extended release metformin as it is easier on my stomach 2,000mg at night, and because we suspect immune issues I will be doing predisone 20mg starting 2 days before transfer and extra 800 mcg of folic acid.

Licorice Tea - Licorice can reduce serum testosterone. Licorice could be considered an adjuvant therapy of hirsutism and polycystic ovary syndrome. I do drink tea if I can from time to time.

*Many women with PCOS see success with Vitex (chaste-berry) to balance hormones and bring menstruation back. I have not tried it myself but know it has been helpful to others.

Some other helpful supplements:

Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar
Gymnema: Helps regulate blood sugar and insulin resistance and sugar cravings
Black Cohosh: Black cohosh is a uterine tonic herb and exhibits an oestrogenic effect. It is widely used in menopausal formulas but is valuable for treating amenorrhea, irregular menstruation and PMS. This herb can also lower blood pressure.
Saw Palmetto: Saw palmetto is traditionally used to treat male prostate enlargement. However, since it is an anti-androgen many women with PCOS use it to treat hirsutism and acne. It has a side effect of increasing breast size in some and consequently is used in breast enhancing herbal formulas to increase cup size. However, it does not always have this effect.
Evening Primrose: a widely popular supplement taken by many women for PMS, fibrocystic breast disease and to improve skin quality. It can also help with irregular cycles. It is rich in G.L.A and linolenic acid; essential fatty acids which the body requires to regulate hormones. Evening Primrose oil also helps with heart disease, cholesterol and blood pressure.
Dong Quai: Promotes hormonal balance and helps keep estrogen and progesterone levels within the normal range