PCOS - A Functional & Naturopathic Medicine Perspective

Written By Cameron Gildea

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal imbalances affecting women of reproductive age, yet it’s often managed with a “band-aid” approach, birth control pills, metformin, or other medications, without addressing the underlying drivers.

From a functional and naturopathic medicine perspective, PCOS isn’t just a “reproductive issue.” It’s a whole-body metabolic and hormonal imbalance that responds best to a root-cause, personalized approach.

Understanding PCOS Beyond the Diagnosis

PCOS is often characterized by irregular or absent ovulation, excess androgen activity (leading to symptoms like acne, hair loss, or excess hair growth), and insulin resistance. However, every woman’s expression of PCOS is unique; some may struggle more with weight gain, while others present primarily with fertility challenges or mood changes.

Functional medicine asks: Why is the body out of balance?

Root Causes to Explore in PCOS

A functional approach investigates deeper imbalances, such as:

  • Blood sugar dysregulation and insulin resistance

  • Chronic stress and HPA axis dysfunction

  • Micronutrient deficiencies (common in B vitamins, magnesium, chromium, and omega-3s)

  • Inflammation from diet, toxins, or gut dysbiosis

  • Thyroid dysfunction or other hormonal imbalances

By identifying and addressing these triggers, symptoms often improve naturally.

Holistic Strategies for Supporting PCOS

1. Balance Blood Sugar First

Blood sugar imbalances are at the core of PCOS for many women. Chronically elevated insulin levels can drive excess androgen production, disrupt ovulation, and worsen symptoms.
Functional tips:

  • Eat protein, healthy fats, and fiber at each meal to slow glucose spikes.

  • Reduce refined carbs and added sugars.

  • Aim for consistent meal timing rather than prolonged fasting (which can be stressful on the adrenals in some PCOS cases).

  • Key nutrient: Chromium - supports insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism.

2. Support Ovulatory Function with Targeted Nutrients

Certain supplements can help restore healthy ovulation and hormone balance:

  • Inositols (myo-inositol & D-chiro-inositol), such as in Ovaitol, can improve insulin sensitivity and ovarian function.

  • B Vitamins, particularly B6, B9 (folate), and B12, support methylation, hormone metabolism, and ovulation.

  • Magnesium aids in insulin regulation, stress reduction, and menstrual cycle regularity.

  • My favorite PCOS supplements blend ~ MilaMend - brings together 14 science-backed ingredients like a 40:1 blend of Myo- and D-Chiro-Inositol, chromium, zinc, alpha-lipoic acid, B6, folate (5-MTHF), CoQ10, and a targeted amino acid blend—into one easy scoop!

3. Lower Stress to Support Hormonal Harmony

Stress can amplify PCOS symptoms by increasing cortisol, which in turn can worsen insulin resistance and disrupt ovulation.
Naturopathic tools:

  • Mind-body practices like breathwork, meditation, and yoga.

  • Adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, rhodiola, holy basil) to support the stress response.

  • Prioritizing sleep hygiene, aim for 7–9 hours of restorative sleep.

4. Incorporate Strength Training & Movement

Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and balance hormones, but the type of exercise matters.

  • Strength training builds muscle, which naturally improves glucose uptake.

  • Moderate-intensity cardio supports metabolic health without overtaxing the adrenals.

  • Avoid chronic over-exercising, which can elevate stress hormones and worsen symptoms.

5. Address Inflammation & Gut Health

Low-grade inflammation is common in PCOS and can worsen hormone imbalances.
Functional steps:

  • Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, berries, omega-3-rich foods (salmon, sardines, flaxseed, chia), and high-quality proteins.

  • Remove inflammatory triggers, processed foods, refined sugars, and industrial seed oils.

  • Support gut health with probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive support as needed.

Optimizing Liver & Gut Health + Supporting Drainage Pathways

1. Support Gut Health for Hormonal Balance

PCOS is often linked to gut dysbiosis, imbalances in the gut microbiome that can worsen insulin resistance, inflammation, and hormone metabolism.
Functional tools:

  • Include prebiotics, probiotics, or synbiotics to restore microbial diversity.

  • Eat fiber-rich, fermented foods (sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi).

  • Follow a Mediterranean-style, anti-inflammatory diet to reduce inflammation and nourish the gut.

2. Support Liver Function & Detoxification

Women with PCOS are at higher risk for fatty liver disease, driven by high insulin and androgen levels -but it is often reversible with lifestyle changes.
Functional tools:

  • N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) supports insulin sensitivity, ovulation, and liver detox pathways.

  • Dandelion tea - rich in antioxidants, supports digestion, has gentle diuretic effects, and promotes liver health.

  • Castor oil packs - used over the liver to enhance lymphatic flow and circulation, supporting detox and hormone metabolism.

3. Enhance Drainage Pathways

Your liver and lymphatic system work together to clear excess hormones and toxins from the body. Supporting these “drainage pathways” helps prevent the recirculation of waste.
Functional tools:

  • Dry brushing stimulates lymphatic circulation and skin detox.

  • Adequate hydration ensures the kidneys and lymphatic system can flush toxins efficiently.

  • Gentle sweating through sauna or movement supports elimination through the skin.

The Takeaway

PCOS is not a one-size-fits-all condition, and it’s not just about the ovaries; it’s about the interplay between your metabolism, hormones, gut health, and stress response. By addressing blood sugar balance, nutrient deficiencies, stress, inflammation, liver function, gut health, and movement patterns, many women see significant improvements in their symptoms and overall vitality.

A functional and naturopathic medicine approach doesn’t just aim to manage PCOS; it empowers you to heal from the inside out. If you suspect PCOS or are struggling with symptoms, partner with a functional medicine practitioner (like me) who can help personalize a plan based on your body’s unique needs.

References

Cameron Gildea
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