Periods should not be a problem…
Menstruation shouldn’t pose a challenge or cause worry. I understand firsthand the difficulties in feeling heard and addressing issues like excessively heavy or painful periods, irregular bleeding, absence of periods, and PMS symptoms.
Challenges with periods might also surface as adult acne, struggles with weight management, low energy levels, and gastrointestinal discomfort. I empathize with the frustration of being told these issues are normal or only being offered medication to alleviate symptoms without tackling the root cause.
Nutrition can play a supportive role if you’re diagnosed or suspect you have PCOS, endometriosis, or both (they can occur together). By addressing hormonal imbalances and inflammation and utilizing targeted nutraceuticals, significant improvements in your quality of life, alleviating period-related stress, can be achieved.
Schedule a complimentary discovery call to explore how I can provide support for you to thrive again.
My approach
Recommended Services for navigating PCOS and Endometriosis
Understanding PCOS and Endometriosis
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis are common gynecological conditions affecting many women and unfortunately their diagnosis can take years to be formalised. As a nutritional therapist, it’s vital to elucidate their cause, manifestations, the intricate role of sex hormones, and the potential for concomitance. Furthermore, a personalized nutrition plan emerges as a valuable tool in managing symptoms and supporting overall well-being.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder related to strong hormonal unbalances. The exact cause is multifactorial, involving genetic predispositions and environmental factors. In PCOS, the ovaries may produce excess androgens (male hormones), leading to the formation of small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) on the ovaries. This hormonal imbalance can disrupt the menstrual cycle, causing irregular or lack of periods, and may contribute to difficulties in conceiving. Other symptoms associated with the condition might be adult acne, difficulty to loose or maintain weight and abnormal hair grow or loss.
Endometriosis: Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. The exact cause remains unclear, but theories include retrograde menstruation (flow of menstrual blood backward into the pelvic cavity), genetic factors, inflammation and immune system dysfunction. This displaced tissue responds to hormonal fluctuations, causing further inflammation, pain, and the formation of adhesions. Endometriosis can result in symptoms such as severe pelvic pain, painful and heavy menstruation, and fertility challenges.
Role of Sex Hormones: Sex hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, play crucial roles in both PCOS and endometriosis. In PCOS, elevated androgen levels disrupt the balance between estrogen and progesterone, contributing to irregular menstrual cycles and the formation of ovarian cysts. In endometriosis, estrogen exacerbates the growth of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to inflammation and pain. The interplay of these hormones influences the severity of symptoms and the impact on reproductive health.
Concomitance of PCOS and Endometriosis: While PCOS and endometriosis are distinct conditions, they can coexist in some individuals, creating a more complex clinical picture. The overlapping symptoms, such as irregular periods and fertility challenges, can make diagnosis challenging. The presence of one condition may exacerbate the symptoms of the other, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach in managing both.
How a Personalized Nutrition Plan Can Help: A personalized nutrition plan tailored by a nutritional therapist can be a valuable component in managing the symptoms of PCOS and endometriosis. Here’s how:
1. Hormonal Balance: Nutritional therapists address hormonal imbalances by recommending foods that support hormone regulation. Functional testing is essential in order to have a detailed picture of hormonal dysregulation and create a tailored and efficient plan.
2. Blood Sugar Regulation: PCOS is often associated with insulin resistance, impacting blood sugar levels. A personalized nutrition plan includes strategies to stabilize blood sugar, such as incorporating complex carbohydrates, fiber, and adequate protein. This can help manage weight, improve energy levels, and support overall metabolic health.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Inflammation is a common denominator in both conditions. An anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and phytonutrients can help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammation, providing relief from pain and discomfort.
4. Supporting Fertility: For those with fertility concerns, nutritional therapy can play a supportive role by addressing nutrient deficiencies, optimizing hormonal balance, and promoting an environment conducive to reproductive health.
5. Individualized Approach: The strength of nutritional therapy lies in its individualized nature. Nutritional therapists consider the unique needs, preferences, and health profiles of individuals, tailoring recommendations that align with their specific challenges and goals. Listening it is very important as patients suffering from those conditions have usually sought help for years from other providers or only obtained drug or surgical therapy as an option to manage their symptoms.
In conclusion, PCOS and endometriosis are complex conditions with multifaceted origins and manifestations. The intricate interplay of sex hormones and the potential concomitance of these conditions highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach. A personalized nutrition plan, guided by a nutritional therapist, can provide individuals with practical strategies to manage symptoms, support hormonal balance, and enhance overall well-being in the context of PCOS and endometriosis.
Success Stories
I went to Lucia as I have PCOS and my period had completely stopped aswell as having awful symptoms like depression, chronic fatigue, stomach issues, skin and hair problems and generally feeling awful all the time. Lucia has changed my health for the better! After I had a hormone test Lucia recommended and she made me a supplement and nutrition plan to help deal with the imbalance I have so much more energy, my moods are better, I can think clearly, my skin is better and more! My digestion is so much better after Lucia's guidance and the recommended food intolerance test I did. She's extremely knowledgeable and will answer text messages quickly if you have questions at any time. She recommends high quality supplements and tests so your not just buying anything off the internet. Would highly recommend if you are suffering and the GP cant help you as with many chronic illnesses.
PCOS and Gut Issues
I am thrilled to share that, thanks to Lucia's expertise, I have seen significant improvements in managing my PCOS symptoms. From hormonal balance to increased energy levels, the positive impact on my overall well-being has been truly transformative. But perhaps the most remarkable change has been the restoration of my sense of happiness and confidence.
PCOS
I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support and guidance I have received from Lucia in managing my PCOS through nutritional therapy. From the very first consultation, it was clear that Lucia is not only knowledgeable but also deeply passionate about helping individuals like me achieve optimal health through a personalized and holistic approach.
PCOS
Over the course of several months, I witnessed significant improvements in my PCOS symptoms. Not only did I experience more regular menstrual cycles, but I also noticed improvements in my energy levels, mood, and overall sense of well-being. Lucia's holistic approach to PCOS management went beyond mere symptom relief; it addressed the underlying imbalances in a way that genuinely transformed my life.
PCOS
What stood out the most was the therapist's commitment to educating and empowering me. Lucia patiently explained the science behind her recommendations, helping me understand how certain dietary choices could positively influence my hormonal balance and overall well-being. This educational aspect was crucial in fostering a sense of ownership over my health, making the journey towards PCOS management not only effective but also empowering.
PCOS
Lucia took the time to thoroughly understand my unique health challenges, lifestyle, and dietary habits. The personalized nutrition plan provided was not just a set of generic guidelines but a tailored roadmap that made sense for me. The emphasis on whole foods, balanced nutrition, and specific supplements was not only effective but also sustainable in the long run.
Diet
FAQ
What is Nutritional Therapy?
Nutritional therapy is the application of nutrition science in the promotion of health, peak performance and individual care. Nutritional therapy practitioners use a wide range of tools to assess and identify potential nutritional imbalances and understand how these may contribute to an individual’s symptoms and health concerns. This approach allows them to work with individuals to address nutritional balance and help support the body towards maintaining health. Nutritional therapy is recognised as a complementary medicine. It is relevant both for individuals looking to enhance their health and wellbeing and for those with chronic conditions wishing to work with or ‘consult’ a nutritional therapist in collaboration with other suitably qualified healthcare professionals. Practitioners consider each individual to be unique and recommend personalised nutrition and lifestyle programmes rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach. Practitioners never recommend nutritional therapy as a replacement for medical advice and always refer any client with ‘red flag’ signs or symptoms to their medical professional. They will also frequently work alongside a medical professional and will communicate with other healthcare professionals involved in the client’s care to explain any nutritional therapy programme that has been provided.
What’s the difference between nutritional therapist, nutrition coach and nutritionist?
In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the importance of seeking legit professional guidance for optimal nutrition cannot be overstated. Registered Nutritional Therapists play a pivotal role in promoting well-being by providing personalized and evidence-based nutritional advice. I wanted to explore the significance of consulting a Registered Nutritional Therapist, shedding light on their qualifications (a degree) and the importance of being registered with professional bodies like BANT (British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine) and CNHC (Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council).
What is the difference between Nutritional Therapists, Nutrition Coaches and Nutritionists?
- Nutritional Therapists:
- Focus: Holistic, addressing underlying health issues.
- Qualifications: Hold a degree in nutritional therapy or a related field.
- Registration: Registered with professional bodies like BANT and CNHC.
- Approach: Personalized, evidence-based recommendations.
- Scope: Work one to one with individuals dealing with specific health concerns.
- Nutrition Coaches:
- Focus: Goal-oriented, often centered on fitness and weight management.
- Qualifications: Vary; it is not a regulated profession and only some may have certifications in coaching or attended courses in
- Registration: Not typically required, but some may hold certifications from coaching organizations.
- Approach: Goal-focused, motivational, and lifestyle-oriented.
- Scope: Assist clients in achieving specific health and fitness goals.
- Nutritionists:
- Focus: General nutrition advice, public health, and community settings.
- Qualifications: Hold a degree in nutrition or a related field.
- Registration: Registered with professional bodies such as the AfN, but not always required.
- Approach: Broad nutrition education and advice, which is not personalised to a 1:1 approach.
- Scope: Work in diverse settings such as public health, research, or education.
In the pursuit of optimal health and receiving personalised and tailored 1:1 advice, consulting a Registered Nutritional Therapist stands out as a wise choice. Their holistic approach, personalised guidance, and commitment to professional standards set them apart. Ensuring that a nutritional therapist is registered with BANT and CNHC adds an extra layer of assurance, highlighting their dedication to excellence, knowledge and high standard of practice.
What is mBANT?
BANT (British Association for Nutrition and Lifestyle Medicine) is a professional organisation for Registered Nutritional Therapy Practitioners and Registered Dietitians which are trained and qualified in clinical practice to meet national standards and work in a one-to-one setting.
BANT practitioner members are required to be registered either with Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) or be statutorily regulated. CNHC holds a register accredited by the Professional Standards Authority for Health and Social Care (PSA), an independent body accountable to the UK Parliament. BANT members are also required to meet Continuing Professional Development (CPD) standards.
Being a BANT member highlights the high standard of my training and work practice, reassuring clients of the quality of the consultations and plans I provide at Food Power Nutrition.
How long would it take to see results?
Nutritional Therapy aims to create long lasting change. Those changes will be gradual but definitive, differently from allopathic medicine that aims to suppress symptoms for immediate relief. As each person is unique, also the speed on which results will be obtained is different and this is also impacted by how closely the suggested nutritional and supplemental plan is followed.
What should I expect to achieve after our appointments?
Food Power Nutrition plan are highly personalised, created around around your needs and your goal in order to obtain the best results possible. Saying that it is important to note that results vary from person to person as we are all unique and our body responds differently. Expectations and goals will be discussed during our discovery call.
Does Food Power Nutrition operates only online?
Food Power provides online consultations via a dedicated platform. Online consultations will be held via telehealth/zoom and can be easily accessed via the client’s “Practice Better” portal. In person consultations will be held on Thursday evenings at Elpis Therapy Rooms, 14 Hanover Square, Mayfair, London W1S 1HN
What shall I do if I have questions in between my two appointments?
Please contact me at my email lucia@foodpowernutrition.com or via Practice Better chat service for support – I am always happy to help.
How can I get in touch with Food Power Nutrition for more information about packages and costs?
Please feel free to ask for information via the contact form, specifying if you wish to be contacted via email or via phone. I am happy to offer a free discovery call to talk through your current health concerns and discuss how we can work together.