Why we selected the ingredients in our PCOS supplement

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterised by multiple cysts in the ovaries, hormone imbalance and insulin resistance. It affects many women, and conventional treatments typically only offer synthetic hormones and diabetic medication. There are plenty of alternatives including nutrition that can make a huge difference to women with PCOS. 

Yoppie’s new Poly Complete Support supplement contains 13 powerful ingredients to target the multiple symptoms of PCOS. We wanted to make a nutritional supplement that combined key ingredients into one formulation to give you everything you need to support your diet and your symptoms. We purposely chose a powder formulation so it didn’t limit the number and dosage of therapeutic ingredients we could include - we just couldn't fit this much in a capsule. Here’s a deeper dive into the ingredients inside the supplement :

Myo-Inositol

Myo-inositol is a type of carbohydrate found abundantly in the body and aids in some hormonal cell signals. There has been some research into the use of myo-inositol and its positive effect on insulin resistance – a common factor affecting up to 70% of women with PCOS. Insulin resistance disrupts the ratio of hormones in the body which can impair egg quality and ovulation. Research has also found that myo-inositol may normalise ovarian function and egg quality which is affected in women with PCOS and one of the causes of irregular menstrual cycles. Rebalancing hormones, insulin and ovulation are some of the key improvements that can be made to improve PCOS. There are 2 types of inositol commonly available on the market - Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol. The body requires a much higher level of Myo-inositol, and taking too much D-chiro-inositol can negatively interfere with egg maturation, which is why we have only included Myo-inositol. Getting the right amount of inositol each day is equally as important. High-quality research has found that a 4000 mg daily dose of Myo-inositol is enough to make a significant difference, while avoiding any major side effects. And like with all of our supplements, having high-quality research to back our ingredients is essential. Myo-inositol might also have a few other benefits. There is research that suggests myo-inositol can also help with regulating mood, another benefit for many women with hormone imbalances. 

Chromium 

Chromium is a trace mineral that contributes towards the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. Elevated blood glucose levels contribute towards insulin resistance, ovulation failure and encourage the production of testosterone in women’s bodies. Both elevated blood glucose levels and excess testosterone are some of the main contributors to PCOS. One study found that women who took chromium for 6 months had a significant reduction in BMI and increased chances of ovulation and regular menstruation. Chromium aids with keeping blood sugar control which has a positive knock on effect on other aspects that may be troubling women with PCOS. Balanced blood sugar levels help to regulate appetite, prevent cravings, encourage the break-down of excess fat stores - especially around the middle and improves skin in women with acne. For some women with PCOS, one of the treatment goals is a reduction in weight which can be greatly aided with chromium. 

Not all chromium is equal however. We have used chromium picolinate in our formula as it is one of the most easily absorbable forms for the body and therefore provides more benefit over other forms. 

Folate 

Folate has been shown to work alongside myo-inositol in women with PCOS and irregular periods. Folate is part of the B vitamin family and supplementing is officially recommended to all women of reproductive age. The whole B vitamin family helps the body to make energy from food, and research suggests that folate especially may improve metabolic profiles in women with PCOS. Folate is an important factor in keeping a blood marker called homocysteine within range. High homocysteine levels are a common factor in women with PCOS and may contribute towards the condition. Getting folate in the right form is essential for some women. Many women cannot convert the standard folic acid into its active form which is called  methylfolate. This conversion can be particularly problematic for women with PCOS. We have included folate in its active form methylfolate to support your body in the best way we can, and to make sure you will benefit from the nutrients in this supplement. 

Vitamin A (as beta carotene) 

Beta carotene is an orange pigment in foods which has several benefits to the body. It converts into vitamin A, as and when the body requires it. Some research suggests that vitamin A is involved in the maturation of the egg. Research found that women with PCOS had altered ability to synthesis vitamin A, this therefore increases your need for vitamin A and beta carotene. 

Vitamin D3 

 Vitamin D deficiency is widespread, especially among women with PCOS. Vitamin D is needed for the normal synthesis of some hormones relating to women’s health, so taking daily supplementation is essential for women with PCOS. One study found that women with PCOS and high enough levels of vitamin D are significantly more likely to achieve pregnancy following IVF. Vitamin D also provides a multitude of other benefits, so you may see some positive changes in other areas too. 

Vitamin C 

Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that contributes towards the protection of DNA, proteins and fats from oxidative damage. Oxidative damage can interfere with hormone balance. Some research has suggested that vitamin C may improve progesterone levels in women with PCOS. Vitamin C is also excellent for your skin as it helps with collagen and your resistance to infection. This has excellent benefits to women with hormonal acne. 

Vitamins B2, B3, B5 and B6

All of the B group vitamins work together and can have a positive role in the health of those with PCOS. Vitamin B6 especially contributes towards the regulation of hormonal activity, and B5 contributes towards the metabolism of steroid hormones (including sex hormones) and some neurotransmitters, especially stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. The stress hormones work in balance with sex hormones, and for there to be a balance of sex hormones in the body, the stress hormones must be functioning properly. Vitamin B2, often referred to as riboflavin is another nutrient that contributes towards the protection of cells from oxidative damage which has some benefits for women with PCOS. 

Zinc 

Zinc is an essential mineral that contributes towards normal blood testosterone levels which are frequently elevated in women with PCOS. Zinc is also needed for normal fertility and reproductive function and may have a positive effect on overall hormone levels and ovulation in women with PCOS. 

Molybdenum 

Molybdenum is a trace mineral that contributes towards the protection of DNA, proteins and fats from oxidative damage. As we know excessive oxidation impairs fertility, it is essential to consume enough antioxidant nutrients including molybdenum. Molybdenum is not a nutrient often discussed, yet it is essential for your health and for women with PCOS. 

N-acetyl l-cysteine (NAC)

N-acetyl l-cysteine is used by the body to make an enzyme called glutathione. Glutathione is the body’s major antioxidant enzyme that helps to protect cells from oxidative stress. Excess oxidative stress may impair fertility and menstrual regularity. Research suggests that reducing oxidative burden on the body and therefore taking NAC could improve fertility. Improving menstrual regularity is certainly a bonus for many women reading this, so we couldn't leave it out from our Poly Complete Support formula. 

To find out more about Yoppie’s condition supplements for PCOS & Endometriosis you can go here. Still got questions? Read our FAQs or ask our experts here.