What do PCOS and Erectile Dysfunction have in common?

I once thought understanding insulin was only relevant to those with diabetes and heart disease. I was so wrong. You see, “silent” insulin resistance is the culprit of many chronic illnesses, fatty liver disease, diabetes type II, infertility (PCOS & erectile dysfunction), pain & debility and so much more. I am on a mission to help men and women, especially those who desire to have children, get healthy and experience their dreams come to fruition.

Insulin is a hormone produced by our pancreas. Every cell in the body has a receptor for it meaning that it’s vital for life. Insulin resistance (IR) has two components: (1) higher insulin (hyperinsulinemia) levels over time AND some (2) cellular resistance to insulin caused by inappropriate eating over time and potentially coupled with inadequate movement. Note that insulin is not a bad buy here.  But, when a lifestyle promotes high insulin levels over time, some cells become resistant to insulin to protect themselves and some cells do not. Meaning that higher insulin levels still function at some cells causing an “over-function” while some cells ignore or resist it resulting in an under-functioning at those cells. This dysregulation causes an entire host of issues since insulin has numerous functions all over the body…. some are being over-emphasized and others completely ignored.  This dysregulation impacts what happens to our sex hormones. This is a recipe for disaster.

In women: Hyperinsulinemia part of IR goes underappreciated in the world of infertility. PCOS is a disease of hyperinsulinemia. Managing insulin levels nutritionally is a safe and an effective way to improve PCOS and decrease infertility…yes improve chances of pregnancy.

In men: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common cause of infertility and greatly impacts quality of life of men and their partners. ED usually occurs due to cellular insulin resistance (which happens due to higher insulin levels over time).  You see, it takes healthy levels of insulin AND receptors to accept insulin to permit the expansion of blood vessels (vasodilation) to yield an erection. When the blood vessels are resistant to insulin they will remain constricted no matter how much insulin is there. No constriction, no erection, no …

Managing insulin by modifying lifestyle can reverse insulin resistance. Eating and moving “right” are essential, safe & effective ways to improve erectile dysfunction, PCOS & other issues. Knowing what this “right” way is can be tricky depending on the individual. We can help you or your family, patients or employees improve insulin disruption to greatly impact health and permit goals to come to fruition!  YOU/THEY/WE ARE WORTH IT. 

-Diane Kopelakis, M.S., R.D.

Wellness Clarified

561-436-6617

Disclaimer:

I am a dietitian. I am not providing medical advice. This is for educational purposes. If you desire to make a change to your lifestyle, take this information to your practitioner to discuss whether or not it’s appropriate for you.