Podcast Only Archives - PCOS Weightloss

PCOS & Metformin (BENEFITS, SIDE EFFECTS, ALTERNATIVES)

Posted on September 14, 2023May 17, 2026 by Podbean

Were you prescribed Metformin at one point in your PCOS journey?

In this episode, we explain how Metformin works including the benefits as well as side effects and alternatives!

Why is Metformin prescribed to so many women with PCOS? You’ll learn the connection between insulin resistance, PCOS symptoms, and Metformin’s impact.

What about inositols? We dive deep into the research between Metformin and Inositol supplements! Inositols are one of the most researched supplements for PCOS and we want you to know about it!

PCOS & Metformin

As one of the most common treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), Metformin has been used to address various symptoms of the disorder. With its ability to treat type 2 diabetes, it has been prescribed to women with PCOS who are also at a higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Although it has been proven to aid weight loss, it should not be considered a primary option. When it comes to Metformin for PCOS, it is essential to understand the potential side effects, such as vitamin B12 deficiency, high blood lactate levels, and, in rare cases, the development of lactic acidosis. Physicians also suggest regular check-ups to monitor the long-term impact of the medication on the patient’s health.

One vital factor to consider when utilizing Metformin is that it does not cure PCOS but instead addresses individual symptoms. While there may be some benefits from taking Metformin, research linking it to a reduced risk of breast cancer is limited. Despite that, it remains one of the most widely prescribed PCOS treatment options in the United States, which is why it is crucial for healthcare providers to thoroughly monitor patients who are using Metformin. Overall, Metformin for PCOS offers women a viable solution for managing certain symptoms, but it should be used with caution and with proper medical supervision.

Inositol vs Metformin

As healthcare providers continue to treat symptoms of PCOS, they seek to identify the best treatment options for their patients. Two such options are inositol and metformin. Both medications are used to treat PCOS symptoms and are available with a prescription. While they share similarities, there are also significant differences between the two that patients should be aware of.

First, both inositol and metformin are appropriate for treating PCOS. However, Inositol is a natural sugar alcohol found in fruits and grains and has been shown to be effective in insulin resistance management, a common symptom of PCOS. In contrast, metformin is an oral medication designed to treat type 2 diabetes, but it has also been found to effectively treat PCOS. While both medications are effective in treating PCOS symptoms, metformin has been associated with negative side effects such as gastrointestinal distress, while inositol has very few reported side effects. Ultimately the decision to use either medication will depend on individual patient needs and medical history.

When it comes to treating PCOS, healthcare providers must consider several treatment options to achieve the best outcome. Both inositol and metformin can significantly aid in symptom management, but they have critical differences that must be taken into account. By understanding these differences, patients can make informed decisions and work together with their healthcare providers to devise the most effective treatment plan. Overall, whether patients choose to take inositol or metformin, receiving the appropriate medical supervision can help alleviate any potential side effects and lead to improved health outcomes.

Take charge of your PCOS journey with Metformin’s empowering benefits!

Join us in The Cysterhood, a community of women learning how to manage PCOS & lose weight, Gluten, and Dairy Free! (bit.ly/The-Cysterhood-Membership)

Ovasitol Packets: 15% OFF prc code 292660 (bit.ly/Ovasitol)

Pre-natal for those trying to conceive: 15% OFF prc code 292660 (bit.ly/theranatalcore)

PCOS Friendly CBD: 10% OFF code TheCysterhood (bit.ly/CBDpcos)

Lab kits to help you find the root causes of your PCOS! (equi.life/PCOS)

While Tallene is a Registered Dietitian and Sirak a Personal Trainer, this podcast provides general information about PCOS. It is not meant to serve as fitness, nutrition or medical advice related to your individual needs. If you have questions, please talk to a medical professional. For our full privacy policy, please click on the following link: (bit.ly/PCOSPrivacyPolicy)

Links included in this description may be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

5 Steps To Transition off Birth Control with PCOS

Posted on September 11, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

We’ve heard it hundreds of times… Cysters go to their doctor for a PCOS diagnosis, and the only solution is to take birth control until you want to come back and get pregnant!

While some women with PCOS are on birth control for contraceptive reasons, others are given birth control to manage PCOS symptoms.

In this episode, we are going to cover all aspects of birth control for PCOS, including how to transition off birth control if you are ready to do so. Disclaimer: please consult your doctor and healthcare practitioner before deciding to go off birth control.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

– What is the birth control pill?

– The side effects of birth control

– Why the pill isn’t the solution for PCOS

– 5 steps to transition off birth control

Disclaimer: please consult your doctor and healthcare practitioner before deciding to go off birth control.

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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Yoga, meditation, and other PCOS mental health practices with Lauren Belcastro!

Posted on September 4, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

Happy PCOS awareness month from Sirak and I! It’s our duty to spread PCOS awareness all year and metal health, but during this special month, it’s time for all of us to turn it up a notch and share as much PCOS content with the world as possible. If you know anyone with PCOS or want a family member or friend to be more knowledgeable about it, spread the word!

PS…we are also doing a special PCOS awareness month giveaway in The Cysterhood. Every day, we are giving away a 3 month supply of Ovasitol to one member, join The Cysterhood to participate!

But we’re not stopping there! At no extra cost, when you order Metabolism Plus during the month of September, you will receive a 1 week free supply of Ovasitol + 1 month free access to The Cysterhood App!

Now let’s talk about today’s episode…

Lauren Belcastro joins us to share her expertise on a range of topics centered around well-being and self-care for PCOS!

During this episode, Lauren dives deep into the realms of yoga, meditation, and various mental health practices that have been shown to have a positive impact on managing PCOS challenges.

Lauren also discusses how mindfulness techniques can play a pivotal role in reducing stress and fostering emotional resilience in the face of PCOS-related struggles.

With this episode, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from Lauren’s expertise and discover how to create a self-care routine for a connection between your mind and body, even when dealing with the complexities of PCOS.

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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SHE’S BACK! Dr. Felice Gersh talks birth control, Ozempic, and much more!

Posted on August 28, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

Dr. Felice Gersh is a multi award winning physician with dual board certifications in OBGYN and integrative medicine. She is the founder and the director of the Integrative Medical Group in Irvine, where women can be treated in a comprehensive way by combining conventional, naturopathic and holistic medicine.

In this episode, Dr. Felice Gersh talks about Ozempic and its impact on PCOS weight management. She also explains the truth about birth control and alternative methods to achieving hormonal balance.

To work with Dr. Felice Gersh, head over to her website (www.IntegrativeMGI.com) for in-person or virtual appointments! You can also find Dr. Felice Gersh on Instagram (@dr.felicegersh) where you can join her live shows! She is also the author of the best seller book, PCOS SOS: A Gynecologist’s Lifeline To Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones, and Happiness and her new book PCOS SOS Fertility Fast Track!

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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PCOS Fertility Supplements & Treatments w/ Dr. Mark Ratner!

Posted on August 24, 2023March 2, 2026 by Tallene

PCOS Fertility Supplements

Did you know many prenatals are designed for women who are already pregnant? As a result, these prenatals contain vitamins and nutrients you don’t need until you are pregnant!

On this episode, we discuss the PCOS fertility world with Dr. Mark Ratner including fertility supplements, treatments, and the importance of other nutrients that are beneficial for getting pregnant!

Why are women with PCOS often told to lose weight in order to get pregnant? We discuss common IVF practices and misconceptions regarding PCOS & fertility.

What essential vitamins should be found in a prenatal? You’ll learn the importance of certain vitamins and compounds such as Vitamin D and folate. What are you waiting for? Click play!!!

Interested in learning more? Read on for our breakdown of what we learned on today’s podcast:

Are Prenatal Vitamins Good For PCOS?

As most of us Cysters know, fertility can be a real challenge. Women with polycystic ovary disease often struggle with fertility and are left wondering how they can improve their chances of starting a family of their own.

Taking a prenatal vitamin can improve fertility in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome by filling the nutritional gap. Basically, prenatal vitamins can help ensure your body is getting all the nutrition it needs to be in tip-top shape. And when you’re in tip top shape, chances of conceiving greatly increase.

Prenatal vitamins can also help Cysters fight and ward-off common symptoms of PCOS during pregnancy. Think about reducing inflammation, hair loss, vitamin D deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, insulin sensitivity, and more.

When Should You Take Prenatal Vitamins

Taking prenatal vitamins is not limited to just pregnancy; they can also be beneficial for women who are trying to conceive. In fact, women with PCOS symptoms may find prenatal vitamins helpful in managing their condition. PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is a hormonal disorder that can affect fertility. Prenatal vitamins containing essential nutrients like folic acid and vitamin D3 can support reproductive health in individuals with PCOS.

In addition to fertility benefits, prenatal vitamins can also help regulate the menstrual cycle and alleviate PMS symptoms. The nutrients present in these vitamins can support hormone balance and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps, bloating, and mood swings.

Moreover, prenatal vitamins can play a role in managing insulin levels. Women with PCOS often experience insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin. Certain nutrients like zinc, found in prenatal vitamins, have been shown to help improve insulin sensitivity. Incorporating zinc supplementation through prenatal vitamins can be beneficial for individuals with PCOS symptoms.

When considering prenatal vitamins, it is essential to examine the label and ensure they contain the necessary nutrients. Refer to the table of contents to confirm the presence of key vitamins such as folate, vitamin D3, and zinc. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate prenatal vitamin regimen based on individual needs and health conditions.

What To Look For In Prenatal Vitamins

Women with PCOS that wish to take a prenatal vitamin should look for some key ingredients, in order to get the max benefits. At the very least, the prenatal vitamin you choose should have:

Folate
Vitamin D3
Choline
Iodine
Vitamin B6
Thiamin
Vitamin B12
Zinc
Selenium

Women with PCOS should also consider a prenatal vitamin or supplement for PCOS that includes myo inositol and d chiro inositol. These chemicals can improve insulin resistance by improving hormone levels. And in turn, this can help prevent pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes.

Best Prenatal Vitamins For PCOS

When it comes to improving ovulation and regulating the menstrual cycle, certain dietary supplements can be a game-changer. One thing to keep in mind is that those with PCOS may be magnesium deficient, which can impact androgen levels and menstrual cycle regularity. That’s why it’s important to choose a prenatal vitamin that includes magnesium (bonus points if it’s in the form of magnesium glycinate, which is easier to absorb). So, when searching for the best prenatal vitamin for PCOS, make sure to look for one that contains this important mineral, along with other key nutrients that can support reproductive health.

Here are some of the Fertility Supplements discussed in the episode:

1. ThereNatal Core

Pre-natal for women trying to conceive – 15% off PRC code 292660

All ThereNatal products are tested and certified under strict systematic review and meta-analysis. They are free from dyes, and certified gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian. ThereNatal Core is meant for women trying to conceive. According to ThereNatal, Core is a “preconception supplement that provides the optimized dose of nutrients for preconception and early pregnancy with higher vitamin D, lower iron, and methylated folate.”

2. ThereNatal OvaVite

Pre-natal for women over 35 trying to conceive – 15% off PRC code 292660

OvaVite is similar to Core, except that it’s geared more toward women over 35 who are trying to conceive. It’s specially designed to work on the egg, where all life begins. According to ThereNatal, “OvaVite contains highly bioavailable CoQ10, to support healthy egg quality in women in their mid-30s and beyond.”

3. ThereNatal One

Pre-natal for pregnant women – 15% off PRC code 292660

Finally, we have the ThereNatal One, which is for women who are already pregnant. This all in one vitamin contains the perfectly curated amount of essential vitamins and minerals to support a healthy pregnancy. ThereNatal states “ThereNatal One provides the optimized dose of nutrients for pregnancy including DHA, folate, iron, iodine, and vitamin D.”

Join us in The Cysterhood, a community of women learning how to manage PCOS & lose weight, Gluten and Dairy Free! (bit.ly/The-Cysterhood-Membership)

Empowerment over fear: How to prevent these 5 PCOS related risks

Posted on August 21, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

Join us as we delve into the 5 dangers of PCOS. While we often discuss managing symptoms and finding ways to control PCOS, it’s crucial to face the potential risks head-on.

This episode aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of these risks, not to incite fear, but to empower you with knowledge.

Some topics discussed:

– Insulin resistance & diabetes

– Infertility

– Weight gain

Remember, the goal of this episode isn’t to alarm you, but to empower you with information that can guide your PCOS journey towards better health!

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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Are you getting enough Vitamin D? Benefits and Best Types of Vitamin D for PCOS

Posted on August 14, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

Did you know Vitamin D deficiency is commonly diagnosed in women with PCOS? This has been found to be associated with metabolic syndrome and can make PCOS symptoms like insulin resistance, menstrual irregularities, and mood swings worse!

In this episode, we are going to help you learn everything you need to know about Vitamin D for PCOS.

You’ll discover:

– Why PCOS women struggle with Vitamin D

– How to know if you’re getting enough Vitamin D

– How to get Vitamin D from food

– How to pick the right form of Vitamin D

We’ll also tell you our favorite Vitamin D supplements for PCOS, tune in to hear all about the sunshine vitamin!

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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10 simple tips for PCOS weight loss + 5 mindset changes

Posted on August 7, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

I’ve talked so much on our podcast about our PCOS weight loss methods, like discovering your PCOS type, switching out inflammatory foods, discovering your carb tolerance range, and switching to low intensity workouts like slow weighted workouts.

But today I thought I would dive into a few mindset changes, and tips that helped me on my PCOS weight loss journey!

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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How to Pick A Protein Powder for PCOS + Our Favorite Brands!

Posted on August 3, 2023September 11, 2025 by Podbean

For women who live with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), protein is like the secret sauce to unlock your full potential. Not only does it help support muscle growth and repair, but it can also work some magic in managing those pesky insulin levels.

Yup, you heard me right! Protein can play a key role in stabilizing your insulin, which is a real game-changer for our PCOS warriors out there.

Now, when it comes to picking the perfect protein powder, you want to make sure you’ve got a good option that ticks all the boxes. You’re looking for a powder that’s low in added sugars, high in quality protein and doesn’t send your taste buds into a frenzy. Lucky for you, there are plenty of delicious protein powders out there that fit the bill.

So, let’s get ready to find your PCOS BFF in protein form. Trust me, with the right protein powder and some fabulous exercise, we’ll have those ovaries feeling like they just won the lottery!

When it comes to choosing a protein powder perfect for our PCOS-powered bodies, we wanna make sure we’re getting all the right stuff. So, let’s talk protein, blood sugar, and building those muscles, because let’s be honest, who doesn’t want those gains?

First things first, look for protein powders that come from quality bases, like whey, pea, or hemp. These sources of protein pack a powerful punch of amino acids, which are the building blocks for muscle mass. Plus, they’re like little superheroes that regulate blood sugar levels, keeping that roller coaster in check.

And speaking of checking, always read those labels, my friend! Look for powders with a good protein content, because we want to bulk up those muscles, not just get a sprinkle of protein dust.

Now, let’s talk about a few protein powders that are great to have if you’re living with PCOS.

Which Protein Powder Is Best For PCOS

Plant-Based Powders

Plant-based proteins are a fantastic choice for women with PCOS, offering a range of benefits. They’re gentle on your tummy and packed with essential nutrients. Look for products that blend a variety of plant-based protein sources like brown rice, quinoa, and chia seeds to get a complete amino acid profile.

These powders won’t leave you scrambling for more protein options!

Hemp Protein Powders

Don’t worry, this protein powder won’t make you hallucinate or giggle uncontrollably.

Hemp protein is made from hemp seeds and is jam-packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. It’s also a good source of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation. So grab your hemp and let’s show inflammation who’s boss!

Soy Protein Powders

Soy protein is a popular option and can be a great fit for women with PCOS. It’s derived from soybeans and provides all the essential amino acids your body needs.

Plus, soy contains a fair amount of phytoestrogens, which may help balance hormone levels. So soy you later to hormone imbalances!

Pea Protein Powders

Pea protein is a real champ and a favorite among plant-based protein enthusiasts.

Made from yellow peas, this powder not only provides a stellar protein punch but is also easily digested. It’s low in carbohydrates and doesn’t contain gluten or dairy, making it a great option for those with PCOS.

Protein Powder Blends

To save you from making tough decisions, there are also protein powders that combine different plant-based proteins into one awesome blend. These blends usually contain a mix of pea, rice, and hemp protein, delivering a diverse amino acid profile.

It’s like a superhero team of proteins coming together to support your PCOS journey.

Our Favorite Protein Powder Brands

PCOS can be a challenging condition, but choosing the right protein powder can be a great addition to your routine. Remember, protein shakes should be like your wingman, providing you with essential nutrition while keeping out the added sugar and artificial sweeteners that can mess with your PCOS game.

So, let’s break it down, shall we?

Garden of Life

Garden of Life protein powders are like a bouquet of clean and wholesome ingredients. They use organic, plant-based protein sources and pack them with essential amino acids. You can find Garden of Life protein powder at various health food stores or online.

Philosophy Love

Philosophy Love protein powder is like your philosophical guru, promoting self-love and wellness. Made with first-rate ingredients, it’s great for PCOS warriors. With a focus on clean nutrition, Philosophy Love keeps the added ingredients to a minimum and steers clear of artificial sweeteners. You can find Philosophy Love protein powder on their website.

365 by Wholefoods

365 by Wholefoods is like the grocery genie that grants your PCOS wishes. Their protein powder is a fabulous option for PCOS because it’s free from added sugar, artificial sweeteners, and unnecessary fillers. You can find it at Whole Foods stores or online.

Sunwarrior

Sunwarrior protein powder is like the radiant sun in the land of protein shakes. They pride themselves on using top-notch, plant-based ingredients to create delicious and nutritious protein powder. You can find Sunwarrior protein powder at health food stores or online.

Orgain

Orgain protein powder is like having a personal trainer in a can. Their products are packed with plant-based protein, and essential amino acids, and are free from added sugar and artificial sweeteners. You can find Orgain protein powder online or in select stores.

Nuzest

Nuzest protein powder is like the flexible yogi of the protein world. They offer a variety of vegan protein options that are ideal for PCOS. Nuzest keeps it simple with minimal added ingredients and no artificial sweeteners. You can find Nuzest protein powder on their website or at select retailers.

Join the battle against PCOS with the power of these protein powders!

Congrats, PCOS warrior-queens! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to navigate through the vast sea of protein powders and find the perfect match for your unique needs.

When choosing a protein powder for PCOS, prioritize high-quality ingredients, consider your macronutrient goals, and opt for options that support hormonal balance. By incorporating the right protein powder into your routine, you can supercharge your PCOS management journey and kick those symptoms to the curb. So go forth, blend your way to hormonal harmony, and let the power of protein powder unleash your full potential.

Just remember, PCOS can be a tricky opponent to tackle, but with the right protein powder on your side, you’ll be feeling stronger, energized, and ready to take life head-on! Join us by downloading The Cysterhood App, where you can be part of a community of women learning how to manage PCOS & lose weight, and how to live a more gluten and dairy-free lifestyle!

Don’t forget to check out our podcast (A PCOS Podcast with a Cyster and her Mister) episode highlighted above! In this episode, we dive into the world of PCOS-worthy protein powders, common dietary tools used to add protein to your daily intake.

You’ll learn:

What sweeteners to look out for in protein powders
Harmful ingredients to avoid
Our favorite brands of protein powders

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While Tallene is a Registered Dietitian and Sirak a Personal Trainer, this podcast provides general information about PCOS. It is not meant to serve as fitness, nutrition, or medical advice related to your individual needs. If you have questions, please talk to a medical professional. For our full privacy policy, please click on the following link: (bit.ly/PCOSPrivacyPolicy)

Our favorite picks for non-toxic cookware + what to avoid!

Posted on July 31, 2023June 1, 2026 by Podbean

We know managing PCOS can feel like a never-ending puzzle, and then finding out that many of the products you have in your house could be influencing your symptoms can be a bummer!

We’ve been on a journey to swap out harmful stuff like plastic and skincare products, but cookware is a whole other story. Trust us, though, it’s worth it for your health! Plus, treat yourself to some new kitchen goodies – totally justifiable!

Here’s the deal: the wrong cookware can actually leak nasty stuff like cadmium, aluminum, and lead into your food. Over time, these toxins mess with your hormones, making PCOS symptoms worse!

But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In this episode, we’re spilling the beans on non-toxic cookware that’ll keep you and your hormones happy. We’ve got practical tips and our top recommendations to make your kitchen a safer haven.

Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS!

What’s Your PCOS Type? – Take the quiz!

Metabolism Plus – Our PCOS Supplement Line!

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