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Insulin also promotes Insulin Growth Factor, which causes things to grow- like cysts, fibroids and even cancer cells. This can further promote problems with fertility.
Elevated insulin levels contribute to or cause the abnormalities seen in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis as well. This affects hormone levels. Adaptogens can be used to rebalance the HPA axis after insulin sensitivity is regained.
Insulin resistance leads to abdominal fat. Visceral fat tissue possesses aromatase, an enzyme that converts androstenedione to estrone and testosterone to estradiol. The excess of adipose tissue in obese patients creates the paradox of having both excess androgens (which are responsible for unwanted hair growth and virilization) and estrogens (which inhibits FSH via negative feedback.)
So if you suspect the begining of any sort of blood sugar problem, there are things you can do. Weight loss will lower aromatase levels and reduce insulin resistance. Exercise reverses the loss of GLUT4 receptors. At least alter your diet so that most of your calories come from leafy vegetables, protein and fat, as lower carbohydrate diets lower insulin resistance. Exercise after eating to bring your blood insulin levels down and don’t eat between meals. And have a very low carbohydrate breakfast- say a vegetable omelet- so that you have the long stretch between dinner and lunch when blood insulin is low. When blood insulin is low, you can lose weight, build muscle and balance hormones. Take anti-inflammatory fish oil (with enough DHA to make 1000mg/day), to get your levels up above 50ng/ml of 25 Hydroxy D, magnesium, chromium and vanadium. And get enough sleep since lack of sleep is known to increase insulin resistance.
Acupuncture and herbs can be quite useful in dealing with insulin resistance and infertility issues. From cinnamon and fenugreek for insulin sensitivity, to bitter herbs to stimulate proper digestion, to adaptogens and hormonally balancing herbs like shatavari and red clover, your herbalist can find an individualized treatment that addresses your underlying issues.
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