An Amber a Day: The Functional PCOS Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

Unlock the secrets to managing PCOS and thyroid issues with  guest, Dr. Erica Armstrong, a leading expert in functional medicine and author of "The PCOS Thyroid Connection: A Functional Medicine Approach to Treating the Root Cause." Discover why women with PCOS are three times more likely to develop thyroid disease, specifically Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and learn about the shared root causes like inflammation, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies. Dr. Armstrong emphasizes the importance of comprehensive thyroid screening and a functional medicine approach that includes advanced lab testing and collaboration between healthcare providers.

Navigate the often confusing world of dietary recommendations for PCOS with practical advice from Dr. Armstrong. Say goodbye to ineffective fad diets like keto or carnivore and learn how balancing blood sugar through key nutrients like magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and omega-3s can make a significant difference. We debunk myths about the harm of cruciferous vegetables, highlighting their crucial role in estrogen metabolism and gut health. Plus, get valuable tips on advocating for yourself in medical settings to ensure you receive the necessary thyroid tests.

Experience the transformative impact of integrating functional medicine into traditional healthcare practices. Dr. Armstrong shares her passion for providing personalized care and the importance of a holistic approach, from advanced testing to nutrition. 

Mentioned in the episode:

The book: https://amzn.to/4etfaZ9
Thyroid Test Kit: https://s.thorne.com/I2xbM
Find Dr Erica Armstrong: https://rootfunctionalmedicine.com/  
Ig: @rootfunctionalmedicine

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

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In this episode, I'm answering your top PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) weight loss questions (about 20 of them) to help explain with more context all the reasons PCOS impacts our weight and what kind of diet helps the most for PCOS weight loss. 

Mentioned in the episode (scroll down for course links!)
Rhodiola - https://s.thorne.com/mVyrH
Berberine - https://s.thorne.com/Sqdp2
Inositol- https://s.thorne.com/esr0F
Probiotic - https://s.thorne.com/RaN5D

Why does weight loss with PCOS often feel like a battle against your own body? Get ready to unlock the answers as we dissect the complicated relationship between weight and PCOS. With the latest insights, we strip away the myths and focus on the complex dance of metabolism, hormones, and genetics. Discover how abdominal fat is not just a matter of aesthetics, but a central player in the inflammation and insulin resistance story. We'll guide you through a balanced dietary approach, emphasizing the often-underrated roles of fiber and protein in blood sugar control, and how this ripples out to affect your metabolic health.

We'll discuss set point theory, which suggests your body has a comfortable weight it stubbornly clings to, and learn the strategies for real, sustainable change. We'll discuss the vital role of metabolic flexibility, offering practical advice on how strategic fasting periods and meal structuring can enhance insulin sensitivity, an important factor in managing PCOS. Plus, hear our thoughts on the exciting potential of GLP-1s to support your weight loss journey while navigating the nuances of cravings and appetite.

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

This was a really good one, guys!  Today we are talking with my good friend Kalea about mitochondria and specifically how they impact PCOS.  Now, I know it sounds a bit science-forward but trust me, Dr. Wattles and I love the mitochondria for a reason.  Hope you love it as much as I did!

Mentioned in the episode:

Follow Dr. Wattles on ig @functionalfertility or visit her website www.drkaleawattles.com for more on her Functional Fertility Blueprint program!

Try N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) mentioned in the episode here: https://s.thorne.com/NRI4c

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

GLP-1's like Ozempic and Monjauro are everywhere these days and being used frequently for PCOS- both for insulin related concerns and weight loss.  My opinions and concerns about these medications have been met with real life experience helping many clients use them effectively over the last couple of years and today I'm sharing insights gleaned from this.  

Basically, this episode will cover what GLP-1 meds are, how they can help PCOS, if they are worth taking, the biggest concerns, pitfalls, and cautions, and how to lose weight safely, efficiently, and effectively while on them.  

If you are currently on a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic for your PCOS or considering taking one, this is my nuanced take on them and I hope it helps!!

 

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

Life can often feel like a tightrope walk, the delicate balance between health, self-care, and responsibilities teetering on the edge of overwhelming. When I was first diagnosed with PCOS, the lack of information and guidance pulled me into a spiral of health burnout. This podcast brings you along my personal journey, as I grappled with my diagnosis, found balance, learnt to build a healthy routine, and navigated lifestyle changes.

What if you could find a new perspective, one that encourages you to shift from the weight loss fixation and acknowledge the complexities of PCOS? A crucial turning point for me was realizing that the information out there was far too narrow, focusing primarily on shedding pounds. I decided to return to school, gain more knowledge, and today, I share my wisdom with you. We explore the importance of balance in your diet, lifestyle and mind. I discuss the challenge of finding restaurants that cater to your needs, and the importance of building a repertoire of healthy meals. I also share the importance of mindset and celebrating small victories, as well as the role of reframing in transformative processes.

But it's not all about what you eat, it's also about what you consume mentally. The information overload can often lead to health burnout. How then, do you sift through the noise, and unfollow accounts that do not resonate with you? This episode invites you to reflect, to understand the cyclical nature of engagement, and to prioritize self-care, especially for those with childhood trauma or perfectionism tendencies. We discuss my personal experiences with fitness and treating myself as a priority. Tune in and discover how to navigate the complexities of living with PCOS, the importance of self-care, and the power of a balanced life.

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

We've hit a milestone of 50,000 downloads, and we're thrilled to celebrate this achievement with you! We've been on an incredible journey together, and as a token of our gratitude for your support, we're diving straight into the heart of the latest PCOS research to talk about major changes and studies that have happened in the last couple of years . Fear not, we've made the science palatable, ensuring you're well-equipped with the knowledge to manage PCOS effectively.

Mentioned in the Episode:

To see more on the upcoming PCOS Essentials Academy Group, click here: https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy

My favorite matcha https://aprikamatcha.com/?ref=wr8dlu4hup

NAC https://s.thorne.com/NRI4c

COQ10 https://s.thorne.com/eFAEK

Fish Oil https://s.thorne.com/MwXez

Inositol https://s.thorne.com/esr0F

Resveratrol https://s.thorne.com/S4z5L

For those interested, below are the PMID numbers for today's episode

The GUT

• PMID: 37208218
• PMID: 37559119

IBS risk

• PMID: 37494961

Cinnamon

• PMID: 35365881

Green Tea

• PMID: 35504067

Antioxidants

• PMID: 36437750

CoQ10

• PMID: 35941510

Circumin

• PMID: 36387924

Fish (omega 3)

• PMID: 36932420

Folate

• PMID: 36657915

Inositol

• PMID: 36703143

NAC

• PMID: 36597797

Resveratrol

• PMID: 37333786

Exercise

• PMID: 368172

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

Do you really understand what your body is saying when it comes to hunger and satiety? It's more complex than you might think, especially if you're managing PCOS. We're breaking down leptin resistance, a hormone intricately linked to our satiety signals. If you've ever wondered why you still feel hungry even after eating a satisfying meal, leptin resistance might be the culprit. With insights into the biological and emotional factors contributing to this disconnect, we're unraveling the mysteries of our relationship with food.

Intuitive eating sounds simple in theory, but for those with PCOS, it can be a minefield. Ever felt like your body is leading you astray, guiding you to consume copious amounts of sugar, starch, and fats? You're not alone. We're exploring the primal brain programming and potential genetic factors that make overeating feel inevitable for many with PCOS. Understanding these signals and influences can be the first step in regaining control over your food choices.

In the quest to eat more mindfully, understanding leptin resistance is key. But how do you improve your sensitivity to these crucial satiety signals? We've got practical advice for you, from slowing down during meals to avoid overeating, to managing cravings and choosing foods that support your individual needs. This isn't about strict rules - it's about flexibility and developing a healthier relationship with food. 

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

What if the secret to unlocking your full potential in work and life is as simple as time management and self-care? Join us on a journey as we explore these vital topics with Renee Claire of Renee Claire Consulting. Renee shares her wisdom on preserving energy, setting boundaries, and incorporating self-care into our busy lives. She brings to light the importance of offloading draining tasks, breaking down money-related limiting beliefs, and shares actionable strategies to help women running businesses as well as those with PCOS. 

We also dive into the deeper layers of self-care, including setting boundaries and creating routines that prioritize your wellbeing. Renee introduces the concept of time blocking to help with focus, and discusses how childhood trauma can sometimes prevent us from taking care of ourselves. Together, we challenge these narratives and share strategies to foster a lifestyle that prioritizes sleep, movement, and healthy eating.

Amber shares her personal experiences with diets and how our nutritional needs change as we grow older. We discuss the crucial importance of embracing change, learning from mentors, and charging a fair price for services. Above all, we underline the significance of self-care, movement, and sleep in maintaining optimal health and productivity.

Find Renee on instagram @theproductivewp and her website https://www.renee-clair.com/

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

Today we're covering a highly requested topic: weight loss in PCOS!  Specifically, I'm going to cover why it actually is harder to lose weight and what can be done. 

Today's discussion focuses on the interrelationship between PCOS, insulin resistance, and weight loss. You'll learn how insulin, a hormone that cues your body to store fat, can become a barrier to your weight loss journey. We're also shedding light on leptin resistance and its role in intuitive eating, which many with PCOS find challenging. 

In the latter part of our conversation, we delve into the roles of stress hormones, chronic inflammation, and insulin resistance in PCOS. Grasp how to strike a balance between activity and rest, understand the role of food sensitivities in inflammation, and realize the importance of breaking the leptin resistance cycle. 

You'll also learn why measurements and progress photos can be more effective for tracking body composition changes. 

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...

Text with your questions & comments for future episodes!

Today we are talking about a few PCOS opinions I've seen recently that have made me really roll my eyes- 

Does PCOS only stem from genetics?  Will PCOS keep getting worse and worse forever because it's a chronic health condition?  Is PCOS your fault?

Find my professional opinions on this and more during this week's episode.

Support the show

Join the Functional PCOS newsletter- free tips every Friday! https://functionalpcos.myflodesk.com/npy6c3m0vq

Did this podcast help you? Becoming a supporter is like buying me a coffee once a month and just a small way to say thank you for the content you love! Become a supporter here.

Another great way to support is a 5 star review- it help the podcast SO much! Consider leaving one if the podcast has helped you on itunes here!

PCOS Facial Hair Freedom- https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-facial-hair-freedom

PCOS Foundations - https://amberfischer.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-foundations

Functional PCOS- https://functional-pcos.teachable.com/p/functional-pcos

Group- Starts May 22- https://hannah-s-school-09e9.thinkific.com/courses/pcos-essentials-academy-may-2024

View updated links: ...