The PCOS Nutritionist Podcast

In this episode Clare sits down with Fannie to discuss her PCOS journey, starting from her teenage years dealing with irregular periods and uncertain diagnoses. She shares the impact of PCOS on her life, including symptoms like weight gain, sugar cravings, and insulin resistance. The conversation also delves into the significant role of understanding her blood work, particularly iron levels and their relation to insulin resistance and fertility. Her journey underscores the importance of self-advocacy, and the realization that managing PCOS is an ongoing process that involves more than just addressing symptoms but understanding her drivers.In this podcast we'll be diving into:Fannie's fertility journey with PCOSDiagnosis and care differences between different countries Why the 'perfect' keto diet isn't sustainable . . and what is! The importance of knowing your iron statusAnd more!Take the Ovie questionnaire and figure out the best PCOS management plan for you. Have you already completed the questionnaire? Are you ready to sign up and take control of your PCOS? Sign up HERE.

Each year when January comes about some may think that we need to create all these New Year's resolutions so that this year is going to be our best, only to run out of steam before January is even over (we've been there too). Instead we believe in setting sustainable intentions and goals that you can work towards gradually so you don't feel totally overwhelmed.Today, The Ovie team discuss how we're approaching the New Year and what kind of person we want to be not just for 2024 but for life.If you want to be curious and ask yourself the important questions that will make that long-term change, this is the podcast for you.P.S. If you want to grab a plan that does exactly that, our Ovie 2024 Focus Challenge is now live in Ovie. Sign up today to get access to the tools, resources and intention setting plan that will help you improve in the 4 areas of your life: connection, nourishment, movement and rest.Take the questionnaire here.

We're diving into why New Year's resolutions are setting you up to fail and how you can actually make lasting changes by building habits that embody the person you want to be.We've got Sophia Dawson, our resident licensed psychologist here at Ovie, as our special guest. She's sharing her expertise on how to set yourself up for success and build habits that will help you achieve your goals.She also provides practical tips and strategies for building habits that last and discusses the importance of aligning your actions with your values and goals.Something things we cover in this episode:Why do most NY resolutions fail?What to do instead of setting typical NY resolutions?Choosing stuff that matters to you (values).Adopt the identify of the person you want to be.Making towards moves.Want to learn more and have a plan in place to help your habits stick? Sign up to Ovie here and receive the tools and resources you need to make positive changes for life.

Moriah describes herself as a 'stressaholic.' Working in a fast-paced, demanding job, she thought this was just part of her life and who she is. She had a tumultuous year with the writer strikes in 2023 and suddenly found herself with a lot of time to spare.Instead of worrying, she decided to put her time off to good use and signed up for our PCOS program. In the past, Moriah has struggled with binge eating disorder, making diets and calorie counting extremely triggering for her. However, after listening to one of our previous podcasts, she realized she was not alone, and our PCOS management program had that in mind.Throughout the program, Moriah made changes that didn't solely focus on weight loss but gave her the tools to manage things she had control over, such as stress management, sleep, joyful movement, and self-awareness. From that, weight loss started to happen.A huge thank you to Moriah for being so open and sharing your story with us. We hope that listening to Moriah's story shows you that you can overcome your PCOS issues and set goals not only for 2024 but for life.If you're looking to take control of your PCOS like Moriah did, take the Ovie questionnaire, find your drivers and start your journey today.

Do you find yourself thinking about food all day long, believing it's just the norm? Isabel thought so too until she learned more about her PCOS.Isabel took part in our program to improve her relationship with food, manage her weight, and understand why all her exercising was pushing her in the wrong direction.She found inner peace through the program and felt so free after letting go of many things that had been taking over her life.*TW (miscarriage): After just a few months of the changes, Isabel started getting her regular periods, and shortly after, she became pregnant. However, it wasn't all that straightforward due to low progesterone levels during her first pregnancy.This in-depth conversation with Isabel about her pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences delves into the raw and real details that many people go through but don't talk about enough! We thank Isabel for being so open with us during this conversation and simply love her positive attitude and energy. We're taking notes on this one, and we hope you can take something from it too.*Trigger warning - please be aware this episode contains conversation about miscarriages.If you're looking to take control of your PCOS like Isabel did, take the Ovie questionnaire, find your drivers and start your journey today.

If you've felt your PCOS symptoms spiralling out of control, and no matter what you do, you just can't seem to get a hold of them, or maybe you didn't even realise all of these things were related to PCOS, this is the podcast for you.Rachel took part in our PCOS management programme after trying multiple diets over 20+ years to control her weight gain and understand her limits with food. On top of that, she experienced extreme fatigue and sleepless nights from her insulin resistance and stress PCOS combination.Embracing the Ovie 80:20 method changed Rachel's life, and approaching her PCOS in a more holistic way helped her gain self-compassion and see results she had never seen before! Discovering her 'why' and picturing her long-term goal of wanting to be there for her kids, and not solely wanting to lose weight, meant she could stick with these lifestyle changes long-term and keep going up and up.It was a pleasure to chat with Rachel about her experience and how she now feels like her cheerful self. We can't wait to see how she continues to flourish.If you listened to Rachel's story and are thinking 'this is me,' try out the Ovie programme today, get the tools that you need specifically for your PCOS, and start your journey to better health and vitality.Take the Ovie questionnaire to find your PCOS drivers. 

If you've got PCOS and you're worried about it affecting your training, or even your training affecting your PCOS - this is the podcast for you.At Ovie HQ, we're quite an active bunch with a history in high-intensity sports. Over the years, we've been listening to our bodies and figuring out what works for us and how certain types of training affect our bodies.Rest assured, you can have PCOS and train competitively; it's just about working out what your priorities are at this point in life.So tune in for our tips and advice on how to train effectively with PCOS, so you can get the most out of your training.The Ovie app can help you along the way with your training so you can implement positive lifestyle habits to help you manage your drivers and symptoms. Take our questionnaire today and sign up today: questionnaire.ovie.io

In this episode we discuss and explain the main drivers of PCOS, including insulin resistance, stress, inflammation, and thyroid health, and why we can experience the symptoms we do.If you have PCOS, you've probably wondered what's truly driving this condition. With so much information available online, it can be overwhelming to figure out what applies to you. PCOS isn't one-size-fits-all, and understanding your unique goals and drivers is essential.Discover how a personalised approach can save you time and money by focusing on the most important aspects first. Nail the basics, and you'll watch everything else fall into place. This is why we created "Ovie."Gain a better understanding of PCOS and discover the next steps you can take to see positive improvements in your symptoms.Want to find out your drivers? Take our questionnaire today for FREE.

Something we have all of our Ovie users do is to start their journey by discovering their 'why,' which we refer to as their North Star. It's the driving force that keeps you going through tough times and provides a vision of where you want to be in life.While you can't control your symptoms, you can control the steps you take. Within Ovie, we take gradual steps toward helping you become the best version of yourself and manage it for life.In this podcast, we will cover:How to discover your 'why'Some examples of past patients' 'whys'How to avoid letting life's challenges derail you from your 'why'This podcast is for you if:You're feeling a bit lost on your PCOS journey and need some help.You're struggling to stick to your habits or goals and want to make that long-term change.Take our FREE questionnaire today to learn more about your body and start your journey to reversing your PCOS.

We went to our Instagram to hear what burning questions you have about everything and anything.In this episode, we cover:How to afford PCOS-friendly foods during inflationIs intermittent fasting good for PCOS?Favorite protein barsWhat to do at the start of your PCOS journeyAnd much more!Thank you to everyone who sent in their questions. We managed to get through many questions and love hearing what's going on for you, providing our tips, tricks, advice, and suggestions.

What defines a heavy period? Do heavy periods have to be long periods? When should I seek medical advice regarding my periods?Periods with PCOS can manifest in various ways. The great thing about them is that they can provide valuable insights into your hormonal health, which can help explain how you're feeling.If you're questioning whether your period is normal or if you simply want to educate yourself on how to better manage it, especially if you're experiencing heavy periods, this podcast is for you.  Want to start managing your periods to make them lighter or more regular? Through Ovie, we create a personalised program specifically tailored to your PCOS condition and goals, allowing you to take control today.Click here to take the questionnaire for FREE.This podcast is sponsored by The Organic Initiative. The Organic Initiative (Oi) is here to remove plastics, synthetics, toxins, and toxic chemicals from your world, starting with feminine hygiene and adult care products, so you can feel proud and protected.I've been using Oi's products for several years now, which have saved me so much money and worry. I can rest easy, knowing that I'm doing good for the planet and my body. If you're looking to purchase some of the amazing Oi products, head over to their website (US & NZ) and you can receive 20% off with the code OVIE, which is a significant discount if you're buying a few cups. I just know you're going to love them as much as I do!

Do you have a burning question about your health or lifestyle in regards to your PCOS? Is it super specific, and you just don't know how or where to look for the information?We are all so different when it comes to our PCOS, and while navigating life with this condition is already overwhelming, having a personal issue can often leave us feeling unsure about where we stand, what's right, and what's wrong!That's why we offer our 'Deep Dive in 5' service, so expert advice is accessible for everyone within the Ovie app.In this podcast, we cover questions on:Fertility and ovulation with PCOSSpecific dietary requirementsWeight-loss drugs and how to manage weight when coming off themSupplementationComing off the OCP (oral contraceptive pill)Don't be left guessing about your PCOS; let our team, with 10+ years of experience specialising in PCOS, do the figuring out for you!Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire today and get control over your PCOS. Select a 3-month membership, insert the code: ASKAQ and receive a FREE 'Deep Dive in 5' question upon sign up.

Anti-androgens for PCOS - What are they? Why might we take them? Are they necessary? What are our options?If you're experiencing acne, hirsutism, or hair loss as symptoms of your PCOS, listen in for an in-depth analysis and description of your options when it comes to managing these challenging symptoms.Sometimes, drugs may feel necessary, especially for our mental health when managing these symptoms, and that is perfectly fine. How you manage your PCOS symptoms is your choice. We aim to provide you with the tools and resources you need to make an informed decision so that you feel comfortable discussing and questioning your healthcare professional when seeking help.In addition to medications, lifestyle changes play a significant role in improving our symptoms, as stated in the 2023 Monash PCOS Guidelines. This is where Ovie comes into play. We can assist you in creating a long-term plan so you can effectively manage these symptoms sustainably for life.Interested in learning more about Ovie and yourself? Take our FREE questionnaire here to discover your drivers. When you sign up, you'll receive your personalised PCOS program tailored specifically for you.In this episode, we cover:What are anti-androgens and why would we need to take themThe different types of anti-androgens and their effectsYour other options if you don't want to take medicationThis episode is for you if:Your experiencing acne, hirsutism or hair loss as a PCOS symptom You want to feel comfortable discussing solutions with your health and medical practitioner about anti-androgens and other optionsYou want to know how Ovie could help you in this journeyPodcast episode: Hormonal Birth Control & Weight Gain, we finally have the proof!

We caught up with Dr. Samina to discuss postpartum experiences and how to navigate life with PCOS after having a baby. It's a life changing experience which can also be a nerve-wracking time for many reasons, on top of that you may wonder what your PCOS symptoms will be like in this new phase of life.During our conversation, we address realistic expectations and the steps you can take to manage your PCOS, such as ensuring you provide your body with the right nutrients in case you experience a resurgence of symptoms.In this episode, we cover:Clare's & Dr. Samina's postpartum experiences and what they've learntHow we can get close to that 80:20 lifestyle to get you feeling your best This episode is for you if:You're struggling with managing your PCOS postpartumYou feel alone in your postpartum journey and can't navigate your way throughExclusive Ovie member content: How and when to use progesterone postpartum - Sign up to Ovie to get access to more professional advice and tips.Take the Ovie questionnaire to find out your drivers.

"You need to eat more in order to lose weight" – it goes against everything you've been told about weight loss, right?Well, we're here to tell you that it's TRUE! If you've been living on an extremely restrictive diet for way too long, there are adaptations your body will make to ensure that you survive, including slowing down your metabolism. Therefore, you won't burn fat because your body is holding onto it for dear life, literally!We totally get that this can be daunting and scary. We've heard it from many of our clients, and we've been through it ourselves. But once you give it a try, you'll understand that nourishing your body with the nutrients it needs equals a happier, better-functioning body.So, if you want to hear the reason behind why eating more means you can start losing weight, then listen in!In this episode, we cover:The mindset shift you need in order to trust the processWhat happens to your body's metabolism when you don't eat enoughHow to eat freely and enjoy foodHow to know if you're overdoing it with exercise and why that might not workThis episode is for you if:You feel like it is impossible to lose weight no matter how little you eatYou feel mentally exhausted with restrictive dietsYou want to change your relationship with foodListen to Jaimee's Story on how she lost 30kg after joining our programme here.Want to sign up to the Ovie programme to find out how you can do this too? Take the questionnaire today, find your drivers and get control over of your PCOS here. 

Ever felt like you couldn't discuss something with a health or medical professional regarding your PCOS? Maybe you didn't have the tools or information to back yourself up. Well, the newly released PCOS guidelines can help you with that.In this podcast, we touch on some of the main points from the evidence-backed research and hope we can provide you with the knowledge and confidence to advocate for yourself while navigating your way through PCOS.So, if you don't feel like you're getting the support you need, this one's for you.And if you're interested in reading the guidelines for yourself, click here to have a read.In this episode, we cover:Several crucial points from the newly released PCOS guidelinesHow to make the healthcare system work for youThis episode is for you if: You need confidence to discuss PCOS management or concerns with your healthcare providerYou want to learn more about PCOS research as a wholeWant to find out your PCOS drivers and take control of your PCOS? Take the Ovie questionnaire for FREE. 

Ever been to the gym or out for a run and just felt totally bleugh, but you don't know why, especially when you hit a personal best last week and felt amazing? That could be because of the different phases of our cycle that affect our energy levels due to changes in our hormones.Technically, we have two phases of our cycle, however when it comes to training, we can break this down into five phases to train appropriately for each one.If you have PCOS, you might be wondering, 'How can I figure out what's right for me with my cycle?' We hear you. Once you have a regular cycle that you can track, you can start tuning into how you feel throughout that period. And rest assured, those of us with longer periods actually experience our mid-follicular phase (a.k.a our 'SEND IT' phase) for even longer, allowing us to give it our all. Pretty cool, huh?In this episode, we cover:The different phases of your cycle and how to work with themHow to adapt this for PCOS and understand how long you will be in certain stagesTraining-specific program ideas, such as weight training, running, and exercises for enjoymentThis episode is for you if:You want to know what's right for you in your trainingYou want to learn more about your body and cyclesIf you're struggling to have regular cycles, we can help with that at Ovie. Take the Ovie questionnaire here and set your goals. You'll receive your personalised programme to help you take control of your PCOS and regulate your periods.

So, you're making these lifestyle changes and may be wondering, "When will I start to see the results?" The answer to that depends on your symptoms and the severity of their drivers. The more important question is how do I know I'm on track? Depending on what is causing these symptoms, you're likely to start feeling better internally before you see some physical results. This means sleeping better, having more energy, feeling less bloated, and losing the brain fog! We view PCOS as a continuum, and you may be somewhere along this spectrum. Therefore, to see results, we need to start making "towards" moves – steps that have a positive impact on your body and mind. In this episode, we cover:How long it can take for each symptom or driver to start changingWhy it's important to be consistent and not lose motivation if you don't see immediate resultsWhen you can expect to see changes in periods, fertility, weight, acne, hirsutism, hair loss energy levels, and sleepThis episode is for you if:You've tried diets or strict plans without seeing long-term resultsYou want a better understanding of the underlying reasons for your symptomsYou're interested in signing up for Ovie and want to learn more about how it can work for your PCOSPodcast references:Lily Kate's Testimonial: More lifestyle changes doesn't always mean better results for your PCOS — and figuring out what your ‘high impact' PCOS changes areJaimee's Testimonial: How she lost 30kg!Daisy's Testimonial: How a food blogger successfully managers her insulin resistance PCOS and habit changes without restrictionKelly's Testimonial: Natural fertility with PCOS - YES, it's possible

Have you ever tried to make several lifestyle changes all at once, only for it to become so intense that you end up getting burnt out within the first week? We've been there too.At Ovie, our focus is on developing long-term, sustainable habits that genuinely impact your lifestyle. We guide you to make 'towards' moves, leading to a better life in an attainable and achievable manner. This approach prevents you from becoming overwhelmed and feeling like you've failed when making multiple changes at once. We provide you with the tools to make these changes while also teaching you the psychology behind them, so you understand exactly what you're doing even when life throws you curveballs.In this episode we cover:How to manage your feelings around habits and challengesCompounding habits over timeHow long it may take for you to see results with Ovie when creating new habits and whyand much more!This episode is for you if:You need some help to get back on track and want to know how you can start implementing some habits into your lifeYou want know how we work in Ovie and how we can make long-term changes to your lifeReferenced episodes:Jaimee's Story: Losing 30 kg - Her Incredible Journey!

Trends, you can't avoid them nowadays. They're often started via social media and can go viral within hours. This week, we are discussing current popular trends such as "Girl Plate Dinner" and "What I Eat in a Day" through a critical lens. We will uncover the positives, such as displaying creativity and forming good habits. However, we also emphasize that they can have adverse effects, setting unrealistic expectations that lead to comparison anxiety, and even promote dangerous habits.We encourage listeners to approach these trends with a balanced perspective and remind you that what you see on social media is merely a snapshot of someone's life, often cherry-picked to present an idealized version.In this episode we cover:The latest trends we've seen on social mediaThe positives and negatives of such trends and how some can be great for inspiration whilst others lead to comparison anxietyThe psychology of creating long-lasting, sustainable habits over quick fixesThis episode is for you if: You've experienced being sucked into a trend and felt guilty about your lifestyleYou want to listen to a balanced debate about the latest trends and how you can positively interpret some and what not to followWant to find out what is driving your PCOS? Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire.

It's an exciting week at The PCOS Nutritionist as we launch our new PCOS management app, Ovie!Ovie helps people with PCOS improve their symptoms and prevent the long-term complications of PCOS by providing them with hyper-personalized health advice based on their specific symptoms.Today, we chat about how Ovie can help you discover those main drivers and have a better understanding about your PCOS. Everyone is different, what works for you might not work for someone else, and that is probably down to your drivers.In this episode, we cover:What could be driving your PCOSHow the Ovie questionnaire can help you understand your PCOSHow the Ovie app works in creating long-lasting resultsSetting your specific goals for what you want to achieve from Ovie...and so much more!This episode is for you if:You know you have PCOS but need support in managing itYou want to learn more about what could be driving your PCOSYou feel overwhelmed with all the different messages online and want to know what changes you can make specifically for you.Click here to take the Ovie questionnaire.

You've probably come across numerous discussions about Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy lately, whether on TikTok, in the news, or even on the latest reality TV shows. The popularity of these weight-loss drugs has soared, making them a topic of significant interest.This week, Clare and our senior nutritionist, Emma, delve deeply into the world of these drugs and similar medications. We explore everything from the latest celebrity crazes to addressing weight-related issues in pursuit of a healthier and more fulfilling life.Listen in for a comprehensive analysis of the pros and cons, as well as an outline of the reasons why some individuals may choose to use them while others might prefer alternative approaches. It's essential to emphasize that we are continuously learning about these drugs, and we're eager to share our knowledge with you so that you can make the most informed decision for your own lifestyle.In this episode, we cover:Ozempic, Mounjaro and Wegovy's purpose, and how they work.A balanced discussion of the reasons both for and against considering these drugs as a weight-loss option.The misuse of weight-loss drugs amongst celebrities.What to expect when starting to use weight-loss drugs and what happens when discontinuing its use.This episode is for you if:You are contemplating the use of  Ozempic, Mounjaro or Wegovy for weight loss and want to make an informed decision.You have been tirelessly searching for information about these drugs but still can't find a clear answer.You are curious to learn more about these drug, their effects, and potential benefits for your health journey.Links to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma

This week, we asked our Instagram audience to send in their questions to be answered. In this episode we cover:What to do when you come off hormonal birth control.Cysts on your ovaries and PCOS - do you need to have them to be diagnosed?Knowing what to do when you have low energy levels and long periods.Eating more and getting better results - how it works!Finding your balance as a new parent and tips on how to better manage your sleep.Thank you to everyone who sent in their questions. We really wanted to deep dive into these questions and provide you with valuable advice that you can start implementing in your life today. Unfortunately, we couldn't get around to answering them all, but we will be doing more of these in the future, so keep an eye out and stay tuned!Links to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with EmmaReferences:Jaimee's Story: Losing 30kg – Her Incredible Journey!

On this week's podcast, we spoke to Tess. Tess dove into the Protocol, giving it her all. She was seeking a more sustainable way to handle her diet after becoming a 'slave to sugar' and experiencing serious hangry attacks, as well as unexplainably gaining weight.After her doctors told her to just halve her quantities for all the foods she ate, as an active sportswoman, this left her constantly hungry and having little to no energy. She thought there had to be a better way, and she was right.Tess began to realise at university that she wasn't the only one experiencing these symptoms and started connecting the dots between her drivers and symptoms. While following the Protocol, Tess noticed considerable differences in her mood, cravings, acne, and so much more. Now she can live freely and be aware of what causes these symptoms to flare up and understands them on a much deeper level.In this episode, we cover:Tess's personal experience of being diagnosed at such a young age and how the Protocol helped manage her PCOSHow to sustainably maintain your eating habits and exerciseAcknowledging stress and managing it with PCOSThis episode is for you if:You're thinking about signing up for the PCOS Protocol and want to hear a Protocoler's experienceYou believe stress is one of your drivers and want to manage it betterYou're struggling with unexplainable weight gainYou want to have more control over cravings and your diet.Links to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma

Have you ever been in a situation where your doctor insisted that the pill is the only solution for managing PCOS? Or have you felt hesitant about trying it due to scary stories you've heard on social media? It can often feel like you're stuck between two extremes, but we're here to let you know that there are other options available.The truth is, different forms of contraception can have significant benefits for some people, while others may prefer a more natural approach. Whatever path you choose, it's important to remember that there's no need to feel ashamed or embarrassed about how you decide to manage your hormones.In this week's episode, we're going to break down the pros and cons of both hormonal and non-hormonal birth control methods, specifically in the context of PCOS. We'll dive into some real-life cases and share insights on why certain options might work better than others. We want you to feel confident and supported throughout your PCOS journey so you know what is the right option for you.In this episode we cover:What is hormonal birth control?The different birth control available: hormonal and non-hormonal optionsThe benefits and downfalls of hormonal birth control (PCOS specific and general)Risk factors and positives relating to cancer with birth controlEmergency contraception optionsThis episode is for you if:You're wondering if you're birth control is suited to youYou're on birth control and want to understand more about how it worksYou have PCOS and weighing up your birth control optionsLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with EmmaDoes the contraceptive pill alter mate choice in humans?

Bariatric surgery is still a taboo topic in most circles. Weight gain and obesity is still portrayed as something that we should have control over and therefore if you need bariatric surgery, you are a failure. Or you're taking the easy way out. But this isn't the case at all. Weight gain and obesity is a really complex condition, especially in PCOS. Our body's email system, our hormones, are sending messages to our body to store more fat. And make it much harder for us to burn fat. This then leads into a spiral - we might become less active because it's harder or more painful to move. We might start severely restricting what we eat, which leads to binge eating and a host of other factors that lead to spiralling weight gain. Most of us are doing the best we can, but our body is just sending the wrong emails.For most people, bariatric surgery is no more your fault or quality of life improving, than needing a hip replacement!So I wanted to break down the taboo of bariatric surgery and open up this discussion.  Because contrary to popular belief, this isn't taking the easy way out.  Bariatric surgery requires a lot of hard work, not just in the initial weight loss phase, but as my guest today, Aimee, speaks about, 3 years post surgery.This is the time that the surgeons and the patients know, is when they are at greatest risk of weight regain. In this episode we cover:Breaking down the taboo of bariatric surgeryThe challenges of living in a bigger body The before and after workHow bariatric surgery actually works (spoiler- it's not just weight loss!)The different types of surgery and what's best for PCOS (and long term weight loss)The psychological side of bariatric surgery Maintaining weight loss 3 years post surgery This episode is for you if:You're thinking about bariatric surgery, or just interested to know actually how it worksYou've recently had bariatric surgery- you need this wonder woman's wisdom! You've had a lap-band and are wondering why it might not have worked for youOr for those who think that weight loss surgery is people taking the easy way out!Links to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma

Do you hear me bleat on in the podcast about eating vegetables (or even growing my own), and think “all very well for you Clare, but I personally hate vegetables”?I get it.  I was recently speaking to one of our PCOS Protocolers in our weekly group consult and she said to me, “I grew up in mid-west America in the 80s and 90s, vegetables just weren't a big thing on the menu in my family.  Especially where there were so many more convenient and tasty foods.  So now, I just find vegetables really tasteless or bitter.” and she is dead right! Vegetables can be really bitter and/or flavourless, and the textures can also be really off putting, especially if you've grown up eating hyper-palatable pop-tarts and packet mac n cheese. No matter where you grew up, if vegetables weren't on the menu in your childhood, or they were but always cooked terribly, then you're probably not going to like them much now.   So what do we do about it?  That is exactly what this podcast explores.In this episode we cover:  Do you really need to eat vegetables? How to prepare and cook vegetables so they taste GREAT (or so you can't taste them at all)And more! This episode is for you if:If you don't like or consume many vegetablesYou want to increase your vegetable intake You want to learn some new ways to cook and prepare your veg You've grown up not eating many (or any!) vegetablesLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma or Charlie

Have you ever complained to your medical practitioner that your hormonal birth control is causing weight gain (only to be told that this couldn't be true!)?Me too.Hormonal birth control was created in the 1950s, and ever since, many of us have been complaining that it causes weight gain. In fact, it's one of the most commonly cited reasons for stopping hormonal birth control.  But until very recently we haven't had any proof. A large study published in 2021, tested different forms of birth control against a control and found that some forms did indeed lead to weight gain.Now not all hormonal birth control is made equal. In this episode, I'll explain the types of birth control that have been found to cause weight gain, and the nitty-gritty mechanisms behind how they can mess with your weight.But don't worry, we're not here to just scare you and leave you hanging. There are other hormonal birth control options that don't increase weight, and of course non hormonal contraception and ways of managing your PCOS too. I'll also chat about alternative birth control options and ways to manage the potential side effects of hormonal birth control so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health.So, buckle up and get ready to hear the good oil on birth control and weight gain. In this episode we'll cover:New research showing the link between certain hormonal birth controls and weight gain How to manage the potential side effects of hormonal birth controlHormonal birth control options that don't increase weightNon-hormonal contraception and ways of managing your PCOSand more! This episode is for you if:You have experienced weight gain while on hormonal birth control You aren't sure if your birth control is linked to your weight gain You want to explore other birth control options You want to learn to manage your weight while on birth control and other PCOS symptomsLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma or Charlie

I remember sitting in St. Davids lecture theatre at Otago university (IYKYK), eating my Vogel's sandwich (packed lunch from the hall of residence of course), trying to concentrate on the lecture but having the most intense bloating pain.My stomach was so hard and bloated that I had to undo the top button of my jeans and was almost doubled over in the lecture theatre, crippled with pain.This was my first vivid memory with bloating and luckily for me, I was able to resolve this in a few years.But for many of you that's not the case and you're still suffering from crippling bloating that affects every part of your life. In a study of over 400,000 women with PCOS globally, they found that over 70% of people with PCOS reported bloating that is not attributed to their cycle or what they've eaten.  This was the most common symptom by far!  In this podcast, I am interviewing one of my colleagues, Charlie, who has had a long history of bloating that has taken her many years to resolve. When it comes to bloating - she has seriously tried it ALL. I ask her all the nitty gritty about what bloating really is, what causes it and what we can do about it, today!If you've been told, “You've got IBS, sorry, there isn't much we can do for you”, then you need to listen to this.  You'll learn that there are many causes of bloating and IBS, and many ways to treat your root cause.In this podcast we'll be diving into:What actually is bloating The most common causesPractical tips you can use to help manage and prevent bloating, today!Further testing, if needed And much more!This episode is for you if: You are so bloated that by the end of the day, you can no longer fit in your jeansYou want to learn simple and easy tips to help with bloating You feel like your doctor isn't listening to you or is being dismissive about your IBS or gut symptoms You want to know about what can cause bloating and see if this helps to determine your root causeYou feel like you have to plan every day around what you're eating because you're always bloating or reacting to your meals  Links to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma or Charlie

Are you struggling to conceive because of PCOS? If so, you are not alone.This podcast episode is all about Kelly's natural fertility journey, how she approached the challenges of irregular periods, mental health struggles, and more. We dive into the specifics of her journey, including:Fertility specialistsCycle tracking to help with ovulationMaking bad food decisions to raise blood sugar The importance of quality sleepStress managementAnd more! We also discuss the importance of taking things one step at a time, and that doing more is not always better.Above all, we emphasize that you are entitled to optimal health.  Join us and take away valuable insight from Kelly's story!This episode is for you if:You're trying to conceive and strugglingYou don't want to wait for a whole year of trying to conceiveYou don't really want to do fertility treatmentYou have insulin resistance or think you mightYour cycles are irregularYou don't sleep well and you're always tiredYou want a happy and healthy pregnancy where you feel great!Resources and References:Iron Bisglycinate supplement Prenatal recommendation WITH iron Prenatal recommendation WITHOUT iron**Note: before supplementing with iron, we recommend getting your Iron levels tested. Iron can often be high in PCOS so supplementing with additional iron can be unnecessary and also contribute to insulin resistance. My Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma or Charlie

So apparently, post pill PCOS is not a thing (according to the research anyway!).However, this is very different to what I see clinically.Post pill PCOS is when you didn't have any PCOS symptoms before going on hormonal birth control and now after coming off it, you've suddenly got all these symptoms!It's been a frequently requested topic on the podcast, but one I've shied away from because there isn't any research.Unfortunately, research can sometimes be slow to catch up with what's happening in real life and it requires researchers to ask the right questions i.e. could hormonal birth control be a trigger for PCOS? Instead, I'm going to tell you about what I'm seeing clinically and that is that post hormonal birth control PCOS symptoms are a real thing. It's not as common as many people think, but it is still happening.In this podcast we'll be diving into:What is it, and is it even a thing?Is there any research on it?What I see clinicallyWhat the treatment options areAnd more! This episode is for you if: Think you may have post pill PCOSNoticed new symptoms that only started once you came off hormonal birth controlAre interested in whether post pill PCOS is a real thingYou want to know if its not post pill PCOS, what else could be at play?Additional information: See Stephanie's Story here to hear a real life case study. Stephanie is a perfect example of post pill PCOS!  I know Stephanie personally and I knew her before she went on hormonal birth control. I knew that she did not exhibit any signs or symptoms of PCOS. Perfect periods. No hirsutism, acne, weight gain or any other symptoms of PCOS! However, after being on hormonal birth control (for less than 5 years), when she came off she had really irregular cycles and fertility challenges that led her to be diagnosed with PCOS. Resources and References:My Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolBook a 1:1 Consultations with ClareBook a 1:1 Consultation with Emma or Charlie

Want to have your own flourishing vegetable garden but not sure where to begin? This episode is for you! We speak with the best vegetable gardener in the southern hemisphere (nominated by me), my mum! I used to think I didn't have green fingers. After killing multiple indoor plants and failing to grow a vegetable garden, I gave up on gardening. But thank goodness I tried again because over the last four years, I have become the very proud owner of a very prolific vegetable garden that has not only brought me so much joy but also saves me a lot of money and is now helping me teach my 1 year old where her food comes from. Hopefully by hearing my story about how I have failed in this in the past, you will see that there is no such thing as being born with the natural knowledge of how to grow food. You just need to know a few fundamentals, and when you know these, growing your own food can be really easy.I'm excited to spread the veggie-growing love by helping you start your own vegetable garden! Mum has a wealth of knowledge with over 40 years of gardening experience and a vegetable garden bigger than my house section!We'll cover everything you need to know to get started this weekend! In this episode you'll learn:How to choose a good place to grow (and this could be a pot on your balcony or windowsill)How to know if you have good soil, and how to fix it if you don'tHow to choose seeds vs little plantsWhat grows at different times of the yearHow much time you need to dedicate to growing food (spoiler- I disagreed with Mum over this!)And how to troubleshoot problems.Links, resources and additional information: For those based in the Northern Hemisphere, April is a great time to plant your warm season crops, such as leafy greens, tomatoes, strawberries, carrots, squashes, zucchini, cucumber, peppers, eggplant, almost all herbs and more. If you live in the southern hemisphere, April a great time to plant crops that like cooler weather such as leafy greens, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and many herbs. I recommend looking online for a growing guide for what to plant when in your city/state/area. I use this one for Auckland, NZ. This episode is for you if: You have attempted and failed a veggie garden in the past (trust me, you can make it work)You are new to gardening and want to learn where to startYou are looking for a refresh, or tip and tricks from a garden pro (my mum!), on how to sustain a thriving vegetable gardenYou want to save money growing your own produce 

Are you pregnant, planning to get pregnant or have you been diagnosed with gestational diabetes? Then you need to give our latest podcast episode, featuring special guest Lily Nichols - a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and Author of "Real Food For Pregnancy" and "Real Food For Gestational Diabetes".We had Lily on the podcast a couple of weeks ago, talking to us about Vitamin A and the benefits it provides so give that episode a listen if you'd like to know more. Today, we are so excited to have Lily back, to chat about the really important topic of gestational diabetes! Lily, has done a lot of work with patients with gestational diabetes and has found that the standard dietary guidelines made things worse for them.In this episode, we learn about the various meal plans advised for pregnant women with gestational diabetes and why they aren't actually helpful for them, how to manage blood glucose through food, and how to get good nutrient levels. Lily also shares a little insight into her, "Real Food For Gestational Diabetes", discussing ketosis during pregnancy, and so much more.Join us as we explore the ins and outs of gestational diabetes. Trust me, It's packed with amazing content that you won't want to miss. Something  we cover in this episode:Gestational Diabetes.Dietary guidelines for gestational diabetes. Lily's book: Real Food for Pregnancy.Ways to manage your blood glucose through food.Pre diabetes for women with PCOS.20-50% of people with PCOS test positive for gestational diabetes.Removing highly processed foods.Ketosis during pregnancy. Working with a clinician who has worked with a wide range of patients.Resources and References:Lily's book: Real Food for Pregnancy InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS Protocol1:1 Consultations

Are you suffering from migraines?This week on The PCOS Nutritionist, we have a special guest, Diane Ducarme, the Founder & CEO of Nector Health, to discuss how migraines can be hormonally driven, particularly for people with disrupted progesterone and oestrogen.Join us as Diane shares her tragic accident and journey with western medicine, how traditional Chinese medicine helped her, and how she was able to lose weight by adding foods rather than cutting them.We'll talk about giving your body the nutrients and energy it needs, thinking of migraines like a fire alarm, and exploring the root causes for women with migraines.Plus, we'll discuss liver and kidney function, symptoms and triggers for PCOS patients with migraines, and common medications for migraines.Don't miss this episode and the chance to learn how to add foods to help manage migraines.Something things we cover in this episode:Why people are after a quick fix?Weight loss and weight gain.Traditional Chinese medicine.The root causes for women with migraines.Liver and Kidney function.PCOS patients with migraines.Migraine symptoms and triggers.Common medications for migraines.Adding foods to help with migraines.Resources and References:Take the migraine testOvie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TikTokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS Protocol1:1 Consultations

In this weeks episode, we talk about life with ADHD and PCOS with an incredible past Protocoler Anna.Anna has experienced it all. She was told all the usual things most of us have heard from our doctors, tried Paleo but it didn't help with her PCOS. Eventually, Anna found The PCOS Protocol and loved the level of detail provided so she knew what was driving her PCOS. She didn't want to feel like a failure this time.So in this episode, we'll discuss how to think of ADHD and PCOS as a spectrum and how to adapt things to make dealing with PCOS and ADHD a bit easier. We'll also talk about how living with ADHD means you may struggle with being a perfectionist, how sugar cravings give a dopamine hit, how women present ADHD differently to men, and the increasing number of adult diagnoses of ADHD.So, if you're looking for some tips and advice on how to manage the symptoms of ADHD and PCOS, then make sure to listen to this week's episode! Something things we cover in this episode:The PCOS Protocol and the level of detail provided ADHD and PCOS on a spectrum, how it varies for everyoneAdapting things to make dealing with PCOS and ADHD a bit easierFeeling like a failure What people would assume ADHD is likeTips if you have ADHD and PCOSPCOS symptoms and ADHD symptoms overlapSugar cravings How women present ADHD differently to men Resources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS Protocol1:1 ConsultationsThe DIY PCOS Protocol

Join me and Emma, our Senior Nutritionist at The PCOS Nutritionist, as we chat about what we were wrong about, how our beliefs about nutrition have evolved since we graduated University, and especially since working with PCOS patients.We're going to be open and vulnerable about the things we got wrong, our personal experiences and beliefs, why we got it wrong, and how we are learning and adapting as new research comes out, to really help patients. We will also talk about cholesterol not causing high cholesterol in the body, the importance of individualised care, the fallacy of 'calories in, calories out', why eggs are not the devil, the priority of sleep over exercise, and how we have changed our stances in order to better help our PCOS clients.So don't miss out on this fascinating episode - tune in now!Something things we cover in this episode:Why people are after a quick fix?Creating a healthy relationship with food.What we learnt at University vs what we know now.How science is evolving, always gaining more knowledge and information.Eggs are not the devilCheating on sleep for the gymNot everyone with PCOS can do the same thing to see successResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS Protocol1:1 ConsultationsThe DIY PCOS Protocol

I am so excited to have special guest, Lily Nichols on our latest podcast episode! Lily is an amazing Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist, Certified Diabetes Educator and Author of "Real Food For Pregnancy" and "Real Food For Gestational Diabetes", whose approach to nutrition embraces real food, integrative medicine, and mindful eating. I know, many of you are curious about Vitamin A, and whether it is safe to take during pregnancy, so in this episode, Lily will share her expertise on the topic and provide evidence-based information to help answer your questions.  We will cover what Vitamin A is, the different forms it comes in,  where we get it from and why health professionals have been telling us not to take Vitamin A during pregnancy? Lily will also share the important benefits of Vitamin A and how to introduce it into your diet.  So if you're curious about Vitamin A and its role in pregnancy, you need to give this episode a listen and hear Lily's expert advice on this important topic.Something things we cover in this episode:What is Vitamin A? Different forms of Vitamin AShould I be taking Vitamin A during pregnancy? Does Vitamin A cause birth defects?Research on Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH)What do doctors tell us about Vitamin A?Foods that contain Vitamin A How to introduce Vitamin A into your dietThe benefits of Vitamin AResources and References:My Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSMy free Prenatal supplement guideLily's books: Real Food for Pregnancy Lily's blog post: Liver and organ meat: Nutritional benefits and how to make it palatableCod Liver oil - Amazon (3 daily (300mg DHA daily)Cod Liver oil - iHerb (3 daily (300mg DHA daily)Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokLinks to our programs:The PCOS Protocol1:1 ConsultationsThe DIY PCOS Protocol

Last week I was talking to Jamie on the podcast, and she said something profound. “I was scared to commit to making changes because I've failed at so many diets in the past”. Why do I deserve to spend money to get advice when I have no self control and can't stick to anything. I too have been in that exact position and almost said that same thing to myself word for word. Join me, and resident psychologist Sophia Dawson, this week on the podcast and find out why some say that 95% of diets fail and how to finally make lasting changes. Find out why you've been set up to fail and what to do to succeed with habit change. If this is your first time tuning in with our special guest Sophia, she is a registered psychologist who specialises in helping people, like us, make actual change. Meeting us where we are, and providing tools and techniques to help us to get to where we want to go.We'll explore holistic psychological health and how what you eat, how you move, sleep, and your vitamin and mineral intake all contribute to your physical and mental health.Sophia and I will help you see that really, it's not you, it's the diet. And that you can still achieve your goals, don't worry about that, but you really need to set your mindset up in the right way to succeed long term. Just like Jamie did.Exciting news - our brand new service: If you want to work 1:1 with our qualified team of Nutritionists, Emma and Charlie specialize in PCOS and are ready to support you on your PCOS journey.  Book a 1:1 consultation today! Something things we cover in this episode:Why people are after a quick fix?Weight loss and weight gain.It's not you, it's the dietCreating a healthy relationship with food.Being kind and compassionate to ourselves.Decision fatigueReframing your mind to succeedMaking towards movesResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TikTokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS Protocol1:1 Consultations

We've got one of our amazing clients, Jaimee who shares all the details about her weight loss journey.  This woman is a total bad-ass and her story will blow your mind.Jaime lost 30 kg after joining our program, but the real magic happened when she started eating twice the amount she used to without any weight gain. How did she do it? By making some lifestyle changes through our program that helped her balance her hormones and ditch those pesky food cravings and binge eating habits for good.Jaimee's story is so relatable and inspiring, especially for anyone with PCOS who may struggle with willpower and food cravings.Her journey will definitely motivate you to take control of your health and make some lasting lifestyle changes that will set you up for success.Something we cover in this episode:Why people are after a quick fix?Weight loss and weight gain.Creating a healthy relationship with food.Learning to love your body.Learning to say no without saying no in social settings.Doing what is right for your PCOS symptomsResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS Protocol1:1 Consultations

We're diving into why New Year's resolutions are setting you up to fail and how you can actually make lasting changes by building habits that embody the person you want to be.We've got Sophia Dawson, our resident licensed psychologist, as our special guest. She's sharing her expertise on how to set yourself up for success and build habits that will help you achieve your goals.She also provides practical tips and strategies for building habits that last and discusses the importance of aligning your actions with your values and goals.Something things we cover in this episode:Why do most NY resolutions fail?What to do instead of setting typical NY resolutions?Choosing stuff that matters to you (values).Adopt the identify of the person you want to be.Making towards moves.Resources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS Protocol

Are you tired of feeling guilty about every single food choice you make over the holidays? Are you sick of getting grilled by your family or friends about your body and food choices? 63% of us do and we don't have to.  It's time to put an end to that- life is too precious to waste your mental energy on that. In this latest podcast episode, we're talking about how to apply the 80/20 principle to your health over the holidays, so you can enjoy yourself without feeling guilty about every little indulgence. Plus, we're sharing tips on how to handle those pesky family members who always seem to have an opinion on your food choices, and how to set boundaries around what you're comfortable with.It's time to take control of your own food choices and stop feeling guilty about every little thing. Tune in to our latest episode and learn how to enjoy the holiday season without all the unnecessary guilt and judgement.

2022 has been the year of the weight loss drug.  Drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Saxenda have exploded in popularity this year, much of this due to their own merits, they can be really really successful for weight loss (and improving insulin resistance) for many people.  However, as we're seeing with our PCOS Protocolers it isn't plain sailing.  So this episode dives into the good, the bad and the ugly so that you can go in with eyes wide open!Here are a few links mentioned for you:The PCOS Protocol  Cyber week sale Promo code: CYBERMONDAY100Medications Mini Module $24LMNT Electrolytes ( I love the Raspberry Salt flavour)

With the cost of living going through the roof, we've got to be smart about where we can save on everything from food to supplements to skincare.  We're coming to you with all the tips on where to save big while living your best life with PCOS. We also talk about what's really  worth splurging on, and what better time to stock up on the more expensive items, than Black Friday!On that note, this our Black Friday Promo, $100 Off The PCOS Protocol Code: BLACKFRIDAY100Link: https://thepcosnutritionist.com/thepcosprotocol/In this episode we cover: How to splurge wisely on supplements and what are a a complete waste of moneyHow to actually use frozen vegetables well Where to shop for the best deals on fresh foodWhat to bulk buy for the best savingsWeekly routines to save on foodHow to use near to expiry products safely How to use sales like Black Friday for yearly savings on skincare and supplementsResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramDaisy's Food Blogger InstagramMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS ProtocolEggducated

Ok, let's rewind the clock a few years and take you back to 2005.  At this time I was at university studying to become a nutritionist and racing in triathlons competitively. You'd think from reading that one sentence that I would have nutrition down pat - and I thought I did! But the reality was that I was really struggling with a plan for my nutrition. I was eating ‘all the right things' yet I was getting this INSANE sugar cravings I couldn't seem to get on top of. I would find myself ploughing through pastries, chocolate and crisps and then thinking “what the heck am I doing?!” then go back to trying to eat less and those classic food pyramid recommendations, all for this cycle to happen all over again.I thought I needed a better meal plan.  If I could just have a good meal plan I'd stick to it. But what I actually needed was better blood sugar and stress management. This is the same as Jamie, one of our patients, who sent us this email the other day:“I first thought the protocol was going to be another impersonal programme where you are just emailed diets and information and are told what to eat. I was also concerned that I wouldn't have the willpower to stick with the changes. After years of trying and failing different diets and dealing with crazy hormones, I was very worried I would sign up and not be able to stick to the lifestyle changesNever in a million years did I think I would ever be able to have a relationship with food like I have now. I have found it so easy to maintain my weight and periods for the first time in my life.”For the majority of patients we see, it's not that they don't know how to live a healthy lifestyle or that they need a meal plan to stick to - in fact, I rarely see it being helpful. What most PCOS patients need is to understand their root cause that's driving those symptoms. Once they've figured that out, they're able to eat in a way that's not only sustainable but also INTUITIVE! If you're feeling like I've just read your mind (and you're struggling with your nutrition), have another listen to this podcast we did with Stephanie.This episode is for you if:Have insatiable sugar cravingsFeel tired and hungry pretty much all the timeHave tried sugar cleanses or cutting sugar completely but haven't been able to maintain itFeel like you have no willpower when it comes to avoiding snacks and sweet treatsHangry attacks feel like a regular occurrence to youYou want to feel more in control of your food, instead of it controlling youSome things we cover in this episode:Insulin's relationship with sugarHow Stephanie overcame her sugar addictionLack of sleep and its effects on insulin and sugar cravingsStephanie's story with PCOSMethods that Stephanie tried for curbing cravings – what works and what doesn'tSugar ‘cleanses' and ‘detoxing'The difference between PCOS and ovarian cystsNegative self talk when it comes to foodResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS Protocol

Did you go searching the internet ‘abyss' for information and try to piece together a list of lifestyle changes that can help your PCOS symptoms after being diagnosed?And end up with a list SO freakin' long it's hard to keep up with and you didn't even know where to start?Lifestyle changes can make a massive, positive impact on your symptoms - that's pretty undeniable and we can all agree on that. But it doesn't mean that loading up on as many lifestyle changes as possible is the best idea. Figuring out what those few ‘high impact' changes are for you that you can maintain long term is what'll really make the difference. Learning that more isn't always better can be kinda tough and it's something that I know a lot of you struggle with or have struggled with. You're not alone - both myself and the protocoler you'll be listening to today on the pod have been there.  In today's episode we talk all about this and more with Lily, one of our lovely PCOS protocolers. Like me — and probably a lot of you — Lily is a perfectionist, type A kinda gal. So when she finally got a diagnosis after years of trying and suspecting, she jumped straight into ‘ok now give me the steps to fix this and I'll follow it to a tee' mode. And yes, as suspected this of course left her feeling frustrated when she got only tiny, unhelpful crumbs of information from her doctors. There's so much information out there, so she ended up with an extremely long, unsustainable list of changes to made life feel really restrictive. She dealt with aggressive cystic acne (like the accutane type, not a couple of measly spots), uncontrollable weight gain, some hirsutism and unexplained fatigue. Not only did we help her drastically improve those symptoms (5.5 inches of her waist, 6 inches of her hips, no need to sleep in the day, cleared up acne and no more hirsutism!) but she's also come out the other side (and into our Lifers program) equipped with knowledge about her body and with some really solid, fantastic mindset shifts that enable her to continue keeping on top of her PCOS symptoms.We wanted to bring back this podcast because it's something that a lot of you struggle with and something that we VERY often see in the clinic with our patients.If you're feeling like you've tried everything, you're feeling like a failure and it feels like the list of things you need to do to get on top of things is miles long, then you're going to get so much out of this chat. Plus, there were plenty of laughs and relatable ‘that's so me' moments along the way — it's a hoot of a pod!This episode is for you if:You're struggling with uncontrollable weight gainAcne is a major symptom for youYou find that you're always tired for no logical reasonYou feel like your doctors aren't really giving you any options beyond the Pill, IVF and eating less moving moreYou have a type A / perfectionist personalityYou've been looking all over the internet for answers and stitching together different recommendations but you can't seem to get on top of your symptomsYou think you may have or know you have thyroid issuesYou want to know how to make changes for your PCOS sustainableYou think you may have or know you have autoimmune issuesYou're doing so much for your PCOS so you're confused about why nothing seems to be workingTalking to your family and friends about PCOS usually ends up in them asking why you can't eat certain foods and what someone they know did to help their symptomsYour tests have come back ‘normal' but you don't feel normalSome things we cover in this episode:Weight gainAggressive acneWhy making more and more changes isn't always betterWhy conversations with loved ones about P

When you were diagnosed with PCOS, was one of the first things you did go and search up changes to make to help your symptoms? And found that there were about 10,000 different diets out there that were supposedly ‘the' way to improve all of those frustrating AF symptoms you've been dealing with?If you said no, lucky! But if you said yes, girl - we've all been there. It's a bit of a dumpster fire on the internet trying to find solutions to PCOS these days. You don't want to be consumed by difficult lifestyle changes, you just want to find something sustainable that allows us variety and flexibility - and works - so you can actually get on with the rest of your life! We don't want it to compromise the things we love.For today's guest Daisy, figuring out how to do this and manage her PCOS successfully while still running her beloved foodie blog was the dilemma. She was finding it difficult to find a sustainable, healthy medium between restrictive diet culture fuelled pattern and the ‘f*** it, who cares' mentality. It's a pretty darn tough balancing act — Daisy, like us, is a perfectionist so finding balance was the goal - and to get on top of her acne, weight gain and missing periods.In today's episode we speak all about her PCOS journey — where it all started, her core ‘why' behind wanting to improve her symptoms, how she manages a food blog (which means she's given burgers, fries, cakes, drinks, brunches, elaborate dinners) while still managing her insulin, how she got on top of that perfectionist mindset to lead a more 80/20 approach to her PCOS, listening to your body, managing your PCOS while travelling (she's on her honeymoon!) and her key advice for anyone struggling with their PCOS.If you feel like you're struggling with this balancing act between getting on top of your PCOS, enjoying yourself still and quieting that perfectionist voice in your head, you're going to luuurve this episode.This episode is for you if:You're struggling with symptoms like acne, weight gain, irregular/missing periods and gut issuesYou don't want to give up your favourite foods and you're wanting a way to balance your PCOS and the things you enjoyTravelling and managing your PCOS seems like an impossible task and you need adviceYou are a foodie, so the thought of nutrition changes stresses you outYou have perfectionist tendencies and/or you're a Type A kind of personYou want to improve your relationship with foodSome things we cover in this episode:PCOS nutrition while travellingNon-negotiablesMaking habit changes for your PCOS that are actually sustainableGetting on top of severe acne, constant weight gain and missing periodsRunning a food blog and eating out when you have insulin resistant PCOSHow long it takes to see changesWhat your ‘why' is and why having a ‘why' is so importantIBS and PCOSResources and References:Ovie InstagramThe PCOS Nutritionist TiktokThe PCOS Nutritionist InstagramDaisy's Food Blogger InstagramMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS ProtocolEggducated

Eating disorders and a poor relationship with food are unfortunately very common in the PCOS community. Which isn't surprising given that we can feel out of control of our bodies and we have health professionals, PTs and the general public telling us we're not trying hard enough.Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is the most common eating disorder in the PCOS community, which is understandable when we're thrown so many different diets and lifestyle changes to ‘improve' our symptoms.So how do you know what a normal relationship with food looks like and whether or not you're experiencing BED?Following on from our previous podcast, Clare, Emma and Charlie chat all about what a normal relationship with food looks like and we take a deep dive into BED - what it is, how it's diagnosed and what feeds into it.As always, if you think you're experiencing an eating disorder or poor relationship with food, please seek professional help. Going alone isn't the way and you are ALWAYS worthy of help - even if it feels scary. We are now trained in eating disorders but this journey takes a team, so definitely speak to your GP and a specialised psychologist or psychiatrist if you feel as though any of this resonates.This episode is for you if:You feel out of control in your bodyYou often find yourself blowing out on foods and then following it with restriction out of guiltLack of planning of food causes you immense amount of stress for youYou feel out of control around foodYou often find yourself secretly eating foods you know aren't great for you (ie. in the car, in your room alone)You have a history of yo-yo dietingYou've tried a lot of dietsSome things we cover in this episode:What does a normal relationship with food look like? What does disordered eating look like? Types of EDWhat is Binge Eating Disorder (BED)? What feeds into BED?Stats on disordered eating in femalesSelf esteem, self control and body imageWhy BED and other disordered eating is so common in PCOSResources and References:My Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolThe DIY PCOS ProtocolEggducated

Do you ever feel like no matter how hard you try to avoid foods you know don't work for you, you just cave? Do you find yourself thinking about food a lot of the time? You see your coworker with a chocolate bar sitting on her desk and think “how the f*** is she not demolishing that right now?! How does she have that kind of willpower, I couldn't control myself around that chocolate even though I want to.”If you've thought this or something similar, the good news is that you're NOT alone. It is so freakin' common - especially among the PCOS community. In fact, disordered eating patterns and full blown clinical EDs are very common in PCOS. And it's no wonder - a lot of us are told to lose weight and no matter how hard we try, we struggle. We have lots of diet culture products marketed towards our vulnerabilities and of course the media in general is supercharged with diet culture rhetoric - it's very hard to avoid.Because this is such a pertinent topic in the PCOS community, in today's episode of the PCOS Nutritionist Podcast, Clare, Emma and Charlie (and little Florence!) are on the podcast chatting about all things disordered eating and BED (otherwise known as binge eating disorder). This is definitely one to tune into if you've struggled or are struggling with your relationship with food. But as always, if you think you or someone you know is dealing with issues, please seek professional help! We can help with disordered eating patterns in the PCOS Protocol but we encourage you to also look into a specific ED dietitian for help. You don't have to suffer in silence, you're worthy of help and it is not your fault that you're struggling.This episode is for you if:You feel like you can't control yourself around foodAll you can think about is foodIt seems like everyone around you has more self control than you yet you're trying the hardestYou feel like no matter how much you try, you don't have the willpower to avoid those foods you know are bad for you or not helping your PCOSSome things we cover in this episode:The science of hungerOur training in eating disordersWhat does a normal relationship with food actually look likeWhat does a disordered eating relationship look like?Types of EDs and the most prevalent type in PCOSThe science behind BEDHow does BED present?How ultra-processed food has been designed to mess with our hunger cuesResources and References:My Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolEggducated

Not sure if any of you know, but it's not just me behind the PCOS Nutritionist! Back in the day, I started it just me, myself and I but of course 5 or so years later it's grown dramatically and is definitely no one man band anymore

Ok so you've been trying everything for your PCOS and nothing is working. So, you start to think about what medications might be available to you to help you with your PCOS symptoms, like that frustrating weight gain you can't seem to get on top of or those crazy sugar cravings that never seem to be satiated.It's overwhelming when you delve into it all. You've heard about Metformin, but the feedback is torn - then you hear people in PCOS forums talking about Ozempic and Saxenda, which seem to be similar but are they better? What's the difference between them all? How do they actually work? What kind of results will they give me, will it actually be worth taking it? Side effects? Which ones will ACTUALLY help the problem rather than bandaiding it?There's so many things to think about when tossing up your options - especially if, like me, you went on metformin and you needed a loo present pretty much at all times

As I'm sure you can imagine having been pregnant with PCOS, I've had a raft of questions from other expecting mothers with PCOS and enquiring minds on how I'm preparing for birth and what the heck happens to PCOS postpartum.As you're listening to this podcast, I'm actually right in the thick of the newborn stage. I'm sure I'll reflect back on this podcast with some things I wish I'd known, but hey hindsight is a wonderful thing!As I'm recording this episode though, I'm a few weeks away from giving birth and I've been thinking a lot about how drastically life will change. While I help women and birthing people day-in-day-out with understanding their PCOS (and for some trying to conceive), I haven't lived that postpartum experience in the first person yet — only through a more scientific lens.Because I know it can be such a whirlwind and an unpredictable time, I wanted to take a moment to pause and touch on what I'm doing to prepare for birth and postpartum PCOS in these final moments of this pregnancy. There are so many unknowns in the fourth trimester and what I always say to my patients and protocolers is to ‘focus on what's within your control'. So that's exactly what I plan to do in today's episode — share with you what's in my control right now that will help future Clare not run around like a headless, sleep deprived chicken (or new mother hen should I say)!While my journey will likely be a bit different to some of yours — hello leading and running a business meaning no traditional maternity leave, I know you'll probably think I'm crazy. I think that having this honest, open conversation about how I'm preparing for birth, postpartum life and my PCOS postpartum will have so much value to so many of you, whether you're planning to have children or not.This episode is for you if:You're currently pregnant with PCOSYou are curious as to how PCOS changes postpartumThe fourth trimester is worrying youYou want to know how I'm managing PCOS, a new baby and a business all at the same timeSome things we cover in this episode:My support systems: it takes a village to raise a child (they're not wrong!)What I'm doing to prepare for and after birthMy approach when it comes to medicated / unmedicatedUnderstanding all the optionsBirth plans — do I have one? What does it look like?Birthing coursesThe mental pressure of being a new mum — how I'm preparingAntenatal classesBuilding a community of other mothers with similar aged babiesThe things that'll be harder to do postpartum and how I'm navigating thatNursery plansMy postpartum survival kitWhat to expect in the first few hours, weeks and monthsLactation consultants and breastfeeding with PCOSHow I'm managing the judgements from other people on how you look after / raise your babyResources and References:Postpartum courseMy Book: Getting Pregnant with PCOSLinks to our programs:The PCOS ProtocolEggducated