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Explore every episode of the podcast The PCOS Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for The PCOS Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 92

TitlePub. DateDuration
Ep 92: Are You Constipated? + Tips and Tricks to Get Things Moving with Fran Dargaville12 May 202400:27:34

HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Defining constipation 
  2. What causes constipation
  3. Where should someone start when trying to fix this symptom
  4. Tips and tricks for short term symptom relief

 

LINKS

Ep 91: Male Infertility, The Factors At Play, Testing + How To Optimise Male Fertility For Conception with Steph Lowe06 May 202400:49:38

HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Current state of male factor infertility 
  2. Trends Steph sees in clinic among her clients trying to conceive 
  3. Issues with acceptance of male factor infertility 
  4. What factors that negatively affect male fertility 
  5. When and how to assess male fertility 
  6. Must have diet and lifestyle foundations to improve fertility
  7. Stephs most recommended supplements for improving male fertility

 

LINKS



Ep 82: Heavy Periods & PCOS26 Nov 202300:29:28

Heavy periods and prolonged bleeding are two very common PCOS symptoms. In this episode I am breaking down what a normal period is, what is classified as a heavy period (in real word terms), what the common causes of heavy periods are and how you can start correcting heavy periods if this is an issue for you. 


HIGHLIGHTS

  • What is a normal period
  • What is a heavy period (>80 mLs for the whole cycle) 
  • What causes a heavy period with PCOS
  • How can you work out what is causing your heavy period


FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Step 1 – PCOS GlowUp: Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Download my PCOS Testing Guide Here to uncover the must have PCOS blood tests, complete with optimal reference ranges and explanations.  
  3. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 81: Struggling to Lose Weight with PCOS? Here's The Tests I Recommend19 Nov 202300:26:11

In today’s episode I’m breaking down the 3 most common reasons why you may be struggling with losing weight with PCOS. As an insight into how I think through these symptoms, it always starts with asking why? Why aren’t you losing weight? Can we find out why via testing? If we can find out why, it’s possible to reverse engineer into a strategic protocol that actually addresses the root cause. 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The 3 most common reasons why you may be struggling to lose weight with PCOS
  • Specific testing to obtain to work out why you aren’t losing weight
  • How to use this testing to reverse engineer into nutrition, lifestyle and supplement strategies that get you results

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Step 1 – PCOS GlowUp: Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here. 
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 80: Endometrial Hyperplasia & PCOS: Why It Happens & What You Can Do About It29 Oct 202300:16:36

Endometrial hyperplasia is a very common issue in PCOS. It can cause increased risk of endometrial cancers and some awful symptoms like prolonged bleeding. In this episode we cover what endometrial hyperplasia is, why it is common in PCOS, conventional treatment options and natural strategies. 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • What is endometrial hyperplasia 
  • Why is endometrial hyperplasia common in PCOS
  • Conventional treatment options for endometrial hyperplasia 
  • What we do inside The PCOS Pathway for endometrial hyperplasia

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Step 1 – PCOS GlowUp: Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 79: Using BBT Tracking to Pin Point Ovulation in PCOS26 Oct 202300:21:49

BBT (basal body temperature) tracking is one of the most effective tools to pinpoint ovulation in PCOS. In this episode I’ll cover why it’s a far better option than using LH strips, how it can help you to accurately check your progesterone levels and the length of the luteal phase. 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Why BBT tracking is the most effective tools for checking ovulation in PCOS
  • How to start using the BBT method right now
  • When the BBT method isn’t suitable 
  • Different devices you can use to make the BBT method easier

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Step 1 – PCOS GlowUp: Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 78: How Insulin Causes Weight Gain in PCOS16 Oct 202300:25:29

High insulin is without a doubt the number 1 cause of why you aren’t losing weight with PCOS. There are other possibilities including low thyroid function, but high insulin and blood sugar dysregulation is the most common. 

 

Let’s unpack what’s happening in the body when you have high insulin:

 

Insulin and Blood Sugar Regulation:

  • Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas in response to an increase in blood sugar (glucose) levels after you eat.
  • Its primary role is to help regulate blood sugar by facilitating the uptake of glucose into cells, where it can be used for energy or stored for later use.
  • When blood sugar levels are high, such as after consuming a meal rich in carbohydrates, the body releases more insulin to lower blood sugar by storing excess glucose as glycogen in the liver and muscles or as fat.

 

Role of Insulin in Fat Storage:

  • When insulin levels are high, it signals the body to store more fat.
  • High insulin levels can also inhibit the breakdown of stored fat (lipolysis). This means that even if you’re consuming fewer calories than you burn, your body may struggle to use stored fat for energy if insulin levels remain elevated.

 

What this all means is that it’s not enough to simply move more or and eat less to lose weight with PCOS. Instead, you need to eat in a way that prioritises blood sugar control. Rather than eating less calories, you need to eat macro-nutrients that stabilise your sugars and allow your insulin to reduce. 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 77: Instagram Q & A - Answering Your Continuous Glucose Monitor Questions10 Oct 202300:21:37

This week on the podcast I am answering 4 questions which have been submitted via Instagram about all things using a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for PCOS. 

 

  1. How long does a CGM last for? 
  2. Why use a CGM for PCOS? 
  3. Is it still useful for PCOS if you know you don’t have high insulin?
  4. My findings and things that surprised me.

 

Let me know if you like this kind of episode?

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 76: Instagram Q & A - Answering Your PCOS Questions08 Oct 202300:16:31

This week on the podcast I am answering 3 questions which have been submitted via Instagram. 

 

  1. Why does it matter to have hormones tested on a particular day of your cycle?
  2. What causes raised DHEA-S levels & what are the best ways to lower them?
  3. Is high androstenedione enough to stop your period if testosterone and DHEA-S levels are normal?

 

Let me know if you like this kind of episode?

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 75: Ozempic - Side Effects, Long Term Considerations, Weight Loss Alternatives 01 Oct 202300:37:59

Have you considered taking Ozempic? I am genuinely concerned about this drug. It’s taken the internet by storm. Ozempic is being prescribed more and more for PCOS...sometimes, off label as a weight loss drug. 

In this episode I am chatting with Nutritionist Steph Lowe about Ozempic. We cover our concerns around the use of this drug including, not just the commonly discussed side effects like nausea, reflux, vomiting, changes to taste perception, diarrhea and more. But also, the less discussed but wildly serious side effects like risks of thyroid cancers, long-term starvation, rebound weight gain, mental health effects of no longer finding pleasure in food. 

If you are struggling with PCOS and weight loss, I really do understand that it can feel like you have no other option. I also understand that it can feel as though you have tried everything but as we discuss in this episode there is always a reason why your body is not losing weight, and often that reason has not been properly explored. 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 74: PCOS Case Study - Reducing PCOS Symptoms Using Nutrition, Lifestyle and Supplements After 10 Years On The Pill 24 Sep 202300:23:45

Zoe came off the pill in late 2022 after 10 years taking it, and didn’t get a period. In early 2023 she suspected that something wasn’t right and went to see her GP to seek a diagnosis, she was later diagnosed with PCOS. 

Not long after her diagnosis Zoe delved into the world of researching what she could do to help her PCOS without going back on the pill or taking Metformin, and that’s when she came across The PCOS Pathway. In June this year Zoe joined The PCOS Pathway, threw herself into implementing the nutrition changes, obtaining her testing and taking her personalised supplements. In a matter of weeks Zoe started getting results – people around her even starting commenting about how amazing she looked, proof that when you change the inside, it shines through. In this episode you are hearing from Zoe, a client of mine inside The PCOS Pathway who lives in rural Australia. I’ll let you listen to the episode now, so she can explain a little more about her experience. 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here. 
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 73: How Long Will it Take For Your PCOS Symptoms to Improve17 Sep 202300:26:22

How long will it take for your PCOS symptoms to improve?

Of course, the answer to this is very individual but in the episode I’ll explain how long most symptoms take and how to know if you’re on the right track. 

In general you’ll see improvements in symptoms like energy levels, weight loss and digestive comfort in the first 3-6 weeks, followed by cycle changes like ovulation and reduced cycle length in the following 6-12 weeks. 

One of the hardest things when it comes to staying committed to your health habits with PCOS is that you don’t necessarily see your main PCOS “irk” like say facial hair growth improve for quite some time, so it’s important to know what other changes to look out for to know that you are on the right track. 

If you have PCOS + you struggle with symptoms of insulin resistance like sugar cravings, low energy, 3:30 itis and trouble losing weight – join my PCOS GlowUp - 3 weeks to better blood sugar control and healthy weight loss. Find out more here: https://solaine.mykajabi.com/offers/fi2yXDsW/checkout 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Go from struggling with sugar cravings, feeling bloated, struggling with stubborn weight and feeling confused about what to eat to help your PCOS, to having stable energy levels across the day, feeling comfortable in your digestion and confident in your clothes and food choices Join the PCOS GlowUp Here.
  2. Want to reduce your PCOS symptoms without medication? Watch my free masterclass here
Ep 90: Instagram Live Q & A: Answering all your PCOS questions07 Apr 202400:58:01

This podcast episode is a little different. It’s a recording from my most recent Instagram live! Where I answered 28 PCOS questions submitted by you. Everything from healing ovarian cysts, gaining weight in menopause and my thoughts on peony and licorice for PCOS. Let’s jump in! 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  1. Tips for healing ovarian cysts?
  2. Is it possible that I regulated my period with sauna and cold plunge?
  3. How the hell do I lose weight with PCOS? It feels impossible. 
  4. Is there a high risk of C section with PCOS?
  5. Thoughts on Metformin?
  6. #1 food for PCOS?
  7. Menopause and PCOS, bloating and weight gain. WHY?? I had it under control before menopause?
  8. How do you reduce insulin resistance and high prolactin?
  9. How do you test mast cell activation syndrome?
  10. Sugar free substitutes instead of sugar, or does that have the same effect? 
  11. I’ve just been told I have insulin resistance. Trying not to panic. TTC & I’m a little anxious. Tips?
  12. Thoughts on MYO-inositol for PCOS?
  13. What is the likelihood of no ovulation if I get my period every month? Just paranoid. 
  14. Normal hormones, acne, irregular periods. But confirmed PCOS. How do I know which type I have
  15. How long should you stay on peony and licorice combination for?
  16. On top of PCOS symptoms but still experiencing recurring miscarriage. What would be the cause of this?
  17. Can you have PCOS & regular periods? I have other markers. HELP! 
  18. Bloods suggest Hashimotos but GP says I don’t need to do anything?
  19. I can’t digest food, only eat once per day but I am still obese. What to do. 
  20. How to get rid of heavy periods and conceive?
  21. Do I have to have a diagnosis of PCOS to join your program?
  22. What’s a good protein break that isn’t eggs for PCOS?
  23. How to boost oestrogen in your 20s? Already sleeping well, exercising, eating well. 
  24. Fat loss with PCOS and two rounds of GDM, weight loss with PCOS feels impossible 
  25. Would maintaining insulin resistance help me to lose weight and how do I do this
  26. I was diagnosed with PCOS while on the pill, if I go off the pill will my symptoms get worse 
  27. How to fix low oestrogen during ovulatory phase
  28. If you have hirsutism from PCOS is there anything you can do to help with this

 

LINKS

Ep 72: 7 Reasons Why You Aren't Losing Weight with PCOS10 Sep 202300:40:02

One of the most frustrating symptoms of PCOS can be weight loss resistance. It can feel like no matter what you do that number on the scales won’t shift. 

There’s got to be a reason though. In this podcast I’m unpacking the 7 big reasons why it can be hard to lose weight with PCOS, and explain how these various systems in the body are interconnected. 

  1. You have issues with regulating your insulin and blood sugar
  2. Your nervous system is dys-regulated
  3. Your thyroid is under-functioning
  4. You have unidentified food sensitivities & inflammation
  5. You are too focused on the number on the scales rather than body composition 
  6. You don’t have your macronutrient balance right
  7. You aren’t sleeping well 
     

If you have PCOS + you struggle with symptoms of insulin resistance like sugar cravings, low energy, 3:30 itis and trouble losing weight – join my PCOS GlowUp - 3 weeks to better blood sugar control and healthy weight loss.

 

Join the PCOS GlowUp here: https://solaine.mykajabi.com/offers/fi2yXDsW/checkout 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here. 
  2. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass.
Ep 71: How Stress and Burnout Affects PCOS and Your Health27 Aug 202300:27:04

Stress. Burnout. Two very common things we hear a lot about, and know negatively affect our health and hormones. In this episode I’m sharing my personal experience with burnout this year, after having my son in September 2022 and jumping back into a business that was not a match for my new phase of life. This year I’ve struggled with at times crippling anxiety, aura migraines with vomiting, crying at nothing, until I made the counterintuitive decision to work even harder but this time, in service of reducing the stress and burnout long-term. My hope and goal in sharing this is that this might inspire someone to radically redirect something in their life in service of a calm nervous system! 

There’s a lot of talk online about stress and burnout management strategies. But, what if the real answer for stress and burnout is acknowledging that we have one short sweet life and sometimes we need to make radical redirections to remove the very thing causing the stress and burnout. 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Signs and symptoms of stress and burnout. 
  • My personal experience with stress and burnout this year. 
  • Using management strategies to assist with managing stress in our lives. 
  • Why do you need to consider what the “nail” is causing stress and burnout and do EVERYTHING you can to remove that from your life. 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here. 
  2. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass. 
Ep 70: How to Use Testing to Get to The Root Cause of Your PCOS Quicker and Easier13 Aug 202300:30:52

I am obsessed with testing! It’s without a doubt, THE BEST way to help you get to the root cause of your PCOS quicker and easier. In this episode we unpack various types of testing, why I love and recommend blood testing, how to get accurate testing done and what our testing reviews are like inside The PCOS Pathway. 

Next week I am hosting a FREE masterclass: How to Reduce and Resolve Your PCOS Symptoms Without Medication. This masterclass is going to be jam packed including the 3 big mistakes I see clients making when trying to reduce their PCOS symptoms. 

This masterclass is going to kick off the next group intake for The PCOS Pathway, and it is going to be the last intake offered at its current price point. So if joining has been on your mind, you won’t want to miss this. Register here: https://solainedouglas.com/webinar-registration-o  

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Why I prefer using blood testing for PCOS
  • How to get your tests completed accurately 
  • What our testing reviews are like inside The PCOS Pathway

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here.

Ep 69: 5 Reasons Why You Aren't Losing Weight With PCOS06 Aug 202300:22:37

This week on the podcast I’m sharing the 5 key reasons why I see clients, not losing weight with PCOS. 

 

Here’s what we cover:

  • High insulin levels: Insulin is a fat storage hormone, high levels make it difficult for your body to burn fat. Not sure if you've got an issue with insulin? It's easy to find out, you just need a fasting insulin test! Note: A fasting blood glucose or HbA1c% will not tell you if you have an issue with insulin! ⁠

 

  • Thyroid issues: The thyroid plays a critical role in regulating metabolism, it's estimated 25% of women with PCOS have a thyroid issue. If you suspect your thyroid function is low, talk to your healthcare provider and consider getting tested. Note: TSH is not a thyroid function test. You need TSH, T4, T3, RT3, TPO Ab, Tg Ab. ⁠

 

  • No dietary changes with Metformin: Metformin is a medication that can help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. However, if you're taking Metformin without making dietary changes, you may not see the weight loss results you're hoping for. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is right?⁠

 

  • High stress hormones: PCOS can cause an increase in DHEA-s and or cortisol, the hormone associated with stress. High cortisol levels can cause your body to hold onto fat, especially in the midsection. Note: Metformin, the Oral Contraceptive Pill, Ozempic won't fix your high stress hormones. If you want to get tested you can ask for an AM-Cortisol and DHEA-S blood test, noting these are best tested within the hour of waking. ⁠

 

  • High inflammatory markers: PCOS is linked to chronic inflammation, which can make weight loss more challenging. Inflammation can also contribute to other health issues like insulin resistance, heart disease, and autoimmune conditions. The anti-dote? Your nutrition & lifestyle. Inflammation can be complex to 'test' but you can request a test called high-sensitivity CRP to help you identify if this could be an issue.⁠



FOLLOW



HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass. 
  2. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here. 
Ep 68: Combining Medication and "Natural Strategies" For Improving PCOS: Reduced Hairloss, More Energy, Reduced Sugar Cravings & Great Sleep 30 Jul 202300:22:30

Today is a powerful case study episode with one of my PCOS clients Rosie. What you will hear in this episode is how Rosie has gone from being diagnosed with PCOS, given Metformin, the pill, the food pyramid, and told to ‘lose weight’ through to experiencing reduced hair loss, having more energy, healthy weight loss and experiencing great sleep!

As you’ll hear in today’s episode Rosie just has such an amazing attitude and I personally have LOVED working with her. I hope this episode serves as proof that you absolutely can improve your PCOS symptoms and it’s possible for you too. 

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Rosie’s experience being diagnosed with PCOS in 2022.
  • The different strategies Rosie tried once she found out she has PCOS. 
  • Her attitude towards the process of working on her PCOS, and how this has affected her results. 
  • Key results, changes and shifts have been noticed in her PCOS symptoms from changes to her nutrition, lifestyle and supplementation. 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass. 
  2. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here. 
Ep 67: How to Cope with Trimester 1 Morning [All Day] Sickness with Shelley McKenzie23 Jul 202300:46:22

Pregnancy is an incredibly exciting time, but for some getting crippling morning sickness can really dampen the excitement. Trimester 1 can be a challenging time. Often no one knows you are pregnant yet, and if you’re anything like me you might be feeling hungover, nauseous and even constipated. Often, your best intentions to eat the most nutrient dense foods fly by the wayside. 

Shelley McKenzie Nutritionist, Naturopath and Mumma of 3 joins us to share her skills and expertise in dealing with morning [all day] sickness.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Two types of morning sickness – how to differentiate the two. 
  • The different strategies that work best for morning sickness. 
  • How to manage trimester 1 when you don’t feel your best. 

 

GUEST

 

 

FOLLOW

 

HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass. 
  2. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here.
Ep 66: How a Busy Mum Who Works Full Time and Studies Part Time is Reducing and Resolving Her PCOS Symptoms16 Jul 202300:35:43

Having PCOS can be an isolating experience. Today I’m bringing you a case study episode from one of my current clients inside The PCOS Pathway. Kiara is mum to a 4 year old, she works full time in a busy government role and is also studying part time. To say she is juggling a lot of balls is an understatement!

 

What you’ll hear in Today’s episode is Kiara’s experience being diagnosed with PCOS and possible endometriosis at age 25, how she felt being told she would struggle to have a baby and the strategies she tried before falling pregnant with her little girl. Kiara also takes us through her experience in joining The PCOS Pathway, the first few things we worked on and the amazing changes she has noticed in her symptoms including: a more regular cycle, confirmed ovulation, reduced period pain, reduction in her insulin, improved blood sugar control, increased energy and more. 

 

MENTIONED

 

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Kiara’s experience getting her PCOS diagnosis at 25 years old. 
  • The strategies she tried after being diagnosed, including working out 2 x per day and “eating really clean”.
  • Her postpartum journey and how she was experiencing her worst periods ever.
  • Where she was at when she joined The PCOS Pathway. 
  • Her experience over the last 3 months and the results she has had including – a more regular cycle, confirmed ovulation, reduced period pain, reduction in her insulin, improved blood sugar control, increased energy and more. 

 

FOLLOW



HOW TO WORK WITH ME

  1. How to reduce and resolve your PCOS symptoms without medication – Watch the free masterclass.
  2. Learn more about my signature program The PCOS Pathway – Learn more here. 
4 Things To Consider If You Have PCOS and Are Considering Stopping Birth Control29 Apr 202300:22:23

If you went on birth control to help manage your PCOS symptoms it can be SUPER daunting to consider coming off it.

Many of the clients I work with feel anxious about their symptoms returning. Especially the ones they can't hide, like acne and unwanted hair growth.

I get it! The thought of dealing with those symptoms again can be so overwhelming. But if you've been thinking about coming off birth control because:

- You want to have a baby.
- Want to manage your PCOS without synthetic hormones.
- You've realised birth control isn't the best for your long term health.

There are a few things you should consider to ensure a smooth transition. Here's what I recommend:

1. Find Out Your PCOS Root Cause: PCOS can have a few root causes, including insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone imbalances. It's essential to identify your specific root cause so that you can develop a targeted approach to managing your symptoms. You can start doing this BEFORE you come off birth control, which is exactly what I recommend.

2. Implement Your Unique PCOS Strategy Based On Your Root Cause: Once you've identified your root cause, it's time to develop a strategy to manage your symptoms. This may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, supplements, and other therapies. Your strategy should be tailored to your unique needs and goals.

3. Address Any Micro-Nutrient Deficiencies: The birth control pill can deplete several vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc. It's essential to address any deficiencies you may have before coming off the pill. All of the deficiencies can be identified through comprehensive blood testing, from there a food and if needed supplement plan can be implemented to start correcting things. This is SUPER helpful for supporting your PCOS symptoms as nutrients like B-vitamins enable your insulin receptors to work better and nutrients like zinc can help to reduce the effects of high androgens.

4. Support Your Detoxification Pathways - Liver & Gut: The liver and gut play a crucial role in detoxifying hormones and other toxins from the body. You want to imagine these like a drain through which various hormones are detoxified. Supporting these pathways can help reduce symptoms of PCOS and improve overall health. Eating a nutrient-dense diet, staying hydrated, and incorporating liver-supportive herbs and supplements can all help support your body's natural detoxification processes. A little note here that if you suffer with constipation then you absolutely have a major issue with your detox pathways - this needs to be addressed!

In summary, if you have PCOS and are thinking of coming off birth control, it's essential to take a targeted approach to managing your symptoms. By identifying your root cause, developing a personalized strategy, addressing any nutrient deficiencies, and supporting your body's natural detoxification pathways, you can minimize symptoms and optimize your health.

 

Show Notes

Follow Solaine online – 

PCOS: How to Get an Accurate Diagnosis & Tests I Recommend with Solaine Douglas & Elly McLean23 Apr 202300:45:38

If you have ever been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or if you're struggling with an irregular menstrual cycle accompanied by stagnant body fat, acne, or excess hair growth, then this episode is for you. Today, I will explain what PCOS is and why it's crucial to use the correct definition before arriving at a diagnosis. We will also discuss the necessary testing to establish an accurate diagnosis and even how to arrange this testing. You'll learn about the various drivers for PCOS, and we will discuss traditional models for treating PCOS and when complementary health approaches may be more appropriate.

 

Show Notes

Follow Elly online – 

 

Follow Solaine online – 

Vaginal Microbiome: Testing, Fertility & Treatment with Jacqui Lamplugh26 Mar 202300:42:28

If you’ve struggled with persistent issues like thrush, bacterial vaginosis or recurrent UTI’s then you are going to want to tune in to this one! We are breaking down the vaginal microbiome; what it is, it’s role in fertility, testing, what causes changes to the vaginal microbiome and things you can start doing right now to take better care down there!

 

Show Notes

Follow Jacqui online –

 

Follow Solaine online –

Ep 89: How Gut Function Impacts Hormones with Fran Dargaville31 Mar 202400:31:58

HIGHLIGHTS

  • How does your gut function impact your hormones
  • Consequences of dysbiosis on your hormones
  • Should you “fix” your gut or your hormones first
  • If someone is struggling with “IBS” or other gut symptoms where do you recommend they start

 

LINKS

Understanding PCOS: Symptoms, Causes, and Diagnosis with Solaine Douglas19 Mar 202300:43:23

Today we’re speaking about PCOS - so if you’ve been diagnosed with PCOS, or you have common signs of this condition like missing or irregular cycles, excess body hair, weight gain, acne or fertility issues, or you’re just keen to learn more about this common women’s health issue, this is for you.

We’re chatting with Solaine Douglas, a Nutritionist specializing in helping women with PCOS reduce and resolve symptoms without medication.

Solaine shares with us the different types of PCOS, the lab testing you want to consider and the key nutrition, lifestyle and supplements that are helpful in addressing the condition.

 

Show Notes

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Exploring Endometriosis: The Mental Health Load, Laparoscopy & Katherine's Journey12 Mar 202300:52:19

Welcome back to another episode! Today’s episode is an interview with the amazing Katherine Hay, taking a deep dive into all things Endometriosis. Katherine so generously shares some insights into her own journey so far including; getting diagnosed, what having Endometriosis is like for her and the mental health toll of having a chronic pain condition.

 

Show Notes

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Could Gilbert's Syndrome Explain Your Gut, Period, Mental Health or Alcohol Issues? with Solaine Douglas09 Mar 202300:45:11

In today’s episode we are joined by Solaine Douglas to discuss Gilbert’s Syndrome, including prevalence, diagnosis and the issues with both a standard medical definition, treatment (or lack thereof) and our conventional pathology reference ranges. We explore the real relevance of Gilbert’s and how it relates to your gut, your periods, your mental health and your alcohol tolerance. We then dive into treatment and offer you many strategies to optimize your health, your hormones and your microbiome, that will be extremely helpful for both Gilbert’s patients and beyond.

 

Show Notes

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Why [even if I could] I Wouldn't Recommend Metformin21 Feb 202300:31:01

Metformin is very commonly used as a standard prescription in PCOS, it’s also fairly well known that it can come with some *inconvenient* symptoms like loose bowel movements, nausea and fatigue. A seemingly small price to pay when you’re desperate to lose weight and control your hangries. What I want you to know is that Metformin does come with the potential of other side effects which are more serious and less commonly talked about. The longer you use it, the higher the dose, the more likely you will be feeling the effects of some of these side effects. Mitochondrial damage B12 deficiency Microbiome changes No one seems to be talking about these? Using Metformin as a standalone intervention for PCOS is doing you a disservice. Not only due to the side effects, but due to the fact that it completely ignores the effects of not changing your diet and lifestyle to reduce your insulin. The potential long term consequences including type II diabetes Instead of Metformin, here’s what I recommend instead [tune into the episode to find out].

 

Show Notes

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Fat Loss: Why The Calorie Equation is Flawed & What To Do Instead with Elly McLean22 Jan 202300:53:25

In Today’s podcast I am speaking with Nutritionist Elly McLean on all things fat loss. We cover the difference between weight loss and fat loss, major flaws on both sides of the calorie equation and what to explore if you’ve been trying to lose fat but nothing seems to be working for you.

 

Show Notes

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PCOS - Tests, Superfoods & Supplementation with Steph Lowe and Solaine Douglas15 Jan 202300:47:55

In today’s episode I am being interviewed again by the incredible Steph Lowe – looking specifically at testing, superfoods and supplements. We cover our concerns with the current diagnostic model, the Rotterdam Criteria, and create clarity on how to achieve an accurate diagnosis. We explore testing accuracy, the role of insulin resistance, the key nutrition and lifestyle strategies, supplements, including a warning in regards to using vitex, and so much more.

 

Show Notes

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10 Tips For Better Health in 2023 with Solaine Douglas01 Jan 202300:42:45

Hello! Happy 2023 to you! 

Today is a solo episode with 10 tips to help you achieve better health in 2023. I am covering; 

  1. Nutrition foundations;
  2. Food quality;
  3. Healthy fats;
  4. Water quality
  5. Plastics;
  6. Home & beauty products;
  7. Shower filters;
  8. Sleep;
  9. Movement;
  10. Caffeine. 

Please don’t be overwhelmed. I recommend just choosing 1–3 areas to focus on. Set small goals that you are willing to commit to. Here’s to your health in 2023!

 

Show Notes

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Tests To Get If You Have PCOS with Solaine Douglas25 Dec 202200:26:12

Welcome back to another episode! In today’s episode we are covering the tests you should get if you have PCOS. Including what day of your cycle to test, what tests I recommend, what your LH to FSH ratio means, where treatment strategies for PCOS should be focused & so much more. 

 

Show Notes

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Issues with Self Prescribing Supplements with Danielle Svensson11 Dec 202200:42:39

Welcome back to another episode of Holistic Health Chats. This week I’m back with Danielle and we are covering the most common problems we are seeing with both the supplement industry and clients who are self-prescribing. In today's episode we cover: 

  • When vitex is and isn’t suitable for hormonal imbalances
  • Things to be aware of with iodine containing supplements
  • The individuality of different forms of supplements e.g. magnesium citrate versus glycinate
  • Problems with generic labeling like “hormonal balance”
  • When withania may be problematic
  • Why methylated B vitamins can be problematic (even for those with MTHFR SNPs)

 

Show Notes

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Inadequate Progesterone: What Causes It & How to Fix It with Danielle Svensson04 Dec 202200:36:47

Welcome back to another episode – Today I have the pleasure of speaking with Danielle again. We are catching up over all things progesterone. We cover the role of progesterone in fertility and overall health, signs and symptoms of low progesterone, how to know if you ovulate and when to test progesterone as well as how to get started with correcting it. Whether you are preconception, trying to conceive or simply interested in how you can optimize your overall health this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

 

Show Notes

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Ep 88: How Insulin Affects Fat Loss in PCOS, Metformin & My Exact Nutrition Breakdown to Reduce Insulin24 Mar 202400:44:40

HIGHLIGHTS

  • How exactly does PCOS affect metabolism? 
  • What’s the link between insulin, metabolism and PCOS?
  • How does Metformin work for PCOS and my clinical observations. 
  • Specifc tools and strategies to help reduce PCOS symptoms and improve metabolic health. 

LINKS

Nutrition Requirements & Low Energy Availability in Athletes and Runners with Alethea Mills27 Nov 202200:52:40

Active women listen up. Today’s episode we are chatting about all things nutritional requirements, and low energy availability in athletes and runners with Alethea Mills. Now, before you say – but I’m not an athlete. If you work out, we still consider you an athlete – so continue listening. 

 

Show Notes

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The Birth Story of Lumi Moses with Solaine Douglas20 Nov 202201:26:50

This episode is a little bit different than most. More of a personal share than educational. I wanted to record my birth story purely for myself to be able to go back and listen to it and reminisce on what was the most intense, hard but equally amazing experience of my life so far. I put it out to you on Instagram as to whether or not you wanted to hear it and I got a resounding, yes. Personally I absolutely LOVED listening to other peoples birth stories of all kinds when I was pregnant. So here it is, the real BTS chats about my experience having a homebirth for my first baby, Lumi Moses. 

 

Show Notes

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Fasting, Restrictive Diets and Caffeine: How it’s Affecting Your HPA Axis with Danielle Svensson13 Nov 202200:40:50

I have to start out by apologizing, it’s been a minute since I’ve released a new episode and honestly I had a baby and thought that I would be able to keep producing a podcast each week but it all just became a little bit much and so I decided to take a short hiatus. But I’m a little more on top of things now, so here we are! 

In this week's episode I am back with Danielle. Maybe you already know this but Danielle is now practicing out of Solaine Douglas Nutrition, over the next few months you will be hearing a lot more from her. In this episode we are following on from a recent episode in which we discussed the HPA-axis and it’s role in disease states. Today, we are chatting about all things fasting, restrictive diets and caffeine and how these things affect the HPA-axis. This topic is particularly relevant to anyone who’s experimented with fasting, restrictive diets and probably nearly all of us who at times are guilty of drinking a little too much caffeine. 

 

Show Notes

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Differentiating Hypothalamic Amenorrhea from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome with Solaine Douglas03 Oct 202200:21:34

Over the next few weeks we are running a PCOS series, so if you have PCOS stay tuned over the next few weeks and if you know someone in your life who has PCOS I would LOVE if you would share the podcast with her. PCOS is a hormonal condition which isn’t well understood, marked with symptoms like irregular periods, absent or irregular ovulation, sometimes weight loss resistance, hair growth or acne. In my opinion PCOS needs a rebrand. In this week's episode I discuss the similarities and differences between hypothalamic amenorrhoea and PCOS, and how you can ensure your diagnosis is correct.

 

Show Notes

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PCOS - Diagnosis, Insulin Resistance & Remission Strategies with Solaine Douglas 28 Sep 202200:48:21

This week's episode of Holistic Health Chats is a re-air of an episode shared earlier this year. Over the next few weeks we are running a PCOS series, so if you have PCOS stay tuned over the next few weeks and if you know someone in your life who has PCOS I would LOVE if you would share the podcast with her. PCOS is a hormonal condition which isn’t well understood, marked with symptoms like irregular periods, absent or irregular ovulation, sometimes weight loss resistance, hair growth or acne. In my opinion PCOS needs a rebrand – and as you’ll soon find out the name itself is completely mis-leading and lends itself to confusion. In this episode we are going to cover insulin-resistant PCOS, the diagnostic criteria as well as various remission strategies!

 

Show Notes

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Gut Testing: How to Know When it's Time to Invest & What Type of Testing You Need with Sheradyn Dekker11 Sep 202200:37:55

Hello & welcome to another episode of the podcast. This episode we are chatting about all things gut testing. Our podcast guest this week is none other than Sheradyn Dekker, this is Sheradyns second time on the podcast so if you haven’t heard her first episode I highly recommend going back to listen to this. This week we cover gut testing: how to know when it’s time to bite the bullet and investiage your poo, and what type of testing may be best for you. 

At Solaine Douglas Nutrition our most commonly used gut test currently is the Nutripath GI-Map, I have included the link to the testing information in the show notes for anyone who wants to geek out, find out more about this test and even download a sample report. We find this test can provide so much useful information to inform our next steps, and therefore achieve the best results. 

Nutripath GI-Map: https://www.nutripath.com.au/product/complete-microbiome-mapping/ 

Book a Complimentary Consultation: https://solainedouglasnutritionbook.as.me/complimentary 

Show Notes

Follow Sheradyn online – 

 

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How to Become Habitually Healthy & Overcome Self-Sabotage with Shahna Sarpi04 Sep 202200:47:04

Welcome to another episode, this week I am chatting with Shahna Sarpi on all things habit creating, maintenance and overcoming self sabotage. We cover tangible steps to make and break habits, how to optimise your environment for the habits you wish to create, how to recognise and overcome self-sabotage. I hope you loved this episode as much as I did. 

 

Show Notes

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Thyroid Nodules - Frequency, Relevance, Treatment & More with Solaine Douglas28 Aug 202200:46:06

This episode is a re-aired episode of yours truly being interviewed by Steph Lowe from The Natural Nutritionist. Steph and I explore the topic of thyroid nodules, something I have been working more with in clinic recently. Thyroid nodules are far more common than we think, but I believe we miss them due largely to difficulties in obtaining correct testing. In this episode we cover the differences between hot and cold nodules, when iodine should and shouldn’t be used, the role of insulin and metabolic health as well as conventional and nutraceutical treatment options. 

Show Notes

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Endometriosis - Strategies to Reduce Flares & Inflammation with Danielle Svensson & Solaine Douglas21 Aug 202200:38:50

In this week's episode of the podcast I am joined by Danielle Svensson, in case you hadn’t heard the news you can now find Danielle consulting in clinic at Solaine Douglas Nutrition and she’s a wealth of knowledge on all things hormones. In this episode we are opening up a conversation around endometriosis. A condition we work with often in the clinic, but I am yet to discuss on the podcast. We unpack the difference between endometriosis and hormonal imbalances, the key symptoms, why pain isn’t always a symptom, the issues with diagnosis, conventional treatment options and what we utilise in clinic. What I really want you to take away from this episode if you currently have endometriosis is that surgery is only part of the equation when it comes to treating endometriosis. 

 

Show Notes

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HPA Axis Dysfunction: The Implication Across Health Conditions with Danielle Svensson & Solaine Douglas14 Aug 202200:44:29

Today's episode is all about HPA-axis dysfunction. In case you are unfamiliar with this term, it’s just the fancy way of saying dysfunction caused to the body via chronic physical and or psychological stress. In this episode Danielle and I explore the role of the HPA-axis, different forms of stress in our modern world, the common conditions we see in clinic that can be caused by HPA-axis issues as well as testing and how nutrition along with other modalities can be used to correct a HPA-axis issue. This is such an important topic, and in today's modern environment one that is absolutely relevant to each and everyone of us. 

 

Show Notes

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Ep: 87: Weight Loss v Fat Loss, Ozempic, PCOS & More with Steph Lowe17 Mar 202400:40:29

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Weight Loss vs. Body Composition Changes:
    • Discussion on the difference between weight loss and body composition changes.
    • Exploring the significance of focusing on body composition especially for PCOS and insulin resistance. 
    • Highlighting the limitations of traditional diet culture in promoting sustainable changes.
  • Proper Testing and Interpretation for PCOS, Insulin Resistance, and Thyroid Issues:
    • Importance of proper testing methods for diagnosing conditions like PCOS, insulin resistance, and thyroid disorders.
    • Accurate interpretation of test results to ensure appropriate treatment and management.
    • Addressing common concerns and misconceptions surrounding these conditions.
  • Importance of Tracking Intake for Health and Fat Loss:
    • Discussion on the benefits of tracking dietary intake for both health and fat loss goals.
    • Exploring various methods and tools available for tracking intake effectively.
    • Mindful eating and balanced nutrition in achieving sustainable results.

LINKS

Peri-menopause: When It Starts, How It Starts & How To Ease The Transition with Danielle Svensson & Solaine Douglas31 Jul 202200:43:55

I have some exciting news to share with you in this episode! Today I am welcoming Danielle Svensson onto the show to chat about all things perimenopause. Personally I find that perimenopause is a confusing period of time for a lot of women, and in clinic I’d go as far as saying many women have resistance to hearing the term. In this week's episode I hope we can shed some light on the different hormonal changes occurring across this time, what this can mean for you in terms of symptoms and what you can be doing if you’re in the thick of it right now or wanting to be proactive about a smooth transition. 

The existing news I have to share with you is that I’m not just welcoming Danielle onto this episode, but also into the business. You’ll be hearing and seeing a lot more of her. As you’ll hear in the episode she’s an incredible practitioner and I am truly honoured to have her working alongside me. You can now find Danielle in clinic and you can book in a complimentary consultation via solainedouglas.com/links if you would like to discuss working with her. I hope you love this episode as much as me!

Show Notes

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Common Supplementing Mistakes You Might Be Making with Solaine Douglas24 Jul 202200:15:38

In today's episode I am exploring the 5 most common supplementing mistakes I see in clinic, which include dosing mistakes, incorrect supplement combining, taking poorly absorbed nutrients, using supplements as a ‘band-aid’ solution and not utilising the power of blood testing to work out what you as an individual need. 


Show Notes

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What Causes Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia) with Solaine Douglas17 Jul 202200:24:07

In today's episode I am bringing you a short solo episode in which we are discussing all things heavy periods: what is a heavy period, when they commonly occur, conventional treatment options for healthy periods, and what is the most common ‘root cause’ in clinic. 

Show Notes

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Managing Iron in Pregnancy & The Ins & Outs of The Glucose Tolerance Test with Solaine Douglas10 Jul 202200:54:47

In this week's episode of Holistic Health Chats I interviewed as a guest speaker on The Nuture Hub podcast, with Shari Lyon and Nicola Laye. Shari and I met at one of her Gold Coast Hypnobirthing courses that I attended with my partner earlier this year and we got chatting about all things OGTT and decided to record an episode about it. In this episode we cover the mis-management of iron that is so common in pregnancy, how you can be pro-active about avoiding an infusion and we delve into all things the oh-so controversial glucose tolerance test. Of course if goes without saying that if you feel the OGTT is the best option for you that’s wonderful, but what I hope this episode shows you is you nearly always have more options – sometimes you just have to know how to ask for them. 

 

One-on-one Consultations: 

_____

If you are currently wanting to get personalised advice to support you with your nutrition & hormones, the best place to start is booking in a complimentary consultation. In this 15 minute consultation we will discuss your current health goals or challenges, what you can expect from consultations, the likely time frame to expect and we cover any questions you may have. If you’re happy to go ahead we book in a time for your initial consultation, equally if you need to think about it further that’s perfectly okay. 

To book in a complimentary consultation, simply head over to solainedouglas.com/links and navigate to the book section or click the link in the show notes. 

I hope to meet you soon!

 

Show Notes 

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