Another blog, another issue, and this time honestly, it’s something that has changed my life. I wanted to reveal the supplements I’m taking (and which my OB-GYN and dermatologist also advised) that have been extremely effective in lessening the symptoms of my PCOS.

Just to clarify, I’m not overweight. However, for no apparent reason, my body keeps fat in the abdomen area, and I often feel hungry even after consuming large amounts of protein and fiber. PCOS has influenced my life in a way that I never thought acne (not just on my face but also on my body), dark patches, and unbalanced hormones that made me feel disconnected from my body would be among them.

It took me a while to get to this point, but I eventually came to the conclusion that my body needed treatment from the inside out besides skincare, diets, and workouts. 

Through the recommendations of my OB-GYN and dermatologist, I’m going to list the vitamins and minerals I have been using for more than a year that indeed made me feel and look good.

1. Probiotics (I take one from Culturelle)

Fixing my gut health was one of the very first things my doctor recommended to me. A well-functioning gut is of primary importance for the balance of hormones, metabolism, and even skin clarity.

Among other things, probiotics lessen the feeling of fullness and gas, regulate the digestive system, and assist the establishment of a friendly microbiome in the gut, which in turn helps balancing estrogen and improving insulin resistance. For me, Culturelle was a real help in calming my gas and slowly making my skin better.

2. White Kidney Bean Extract (Lesocarb by Dr. Zen)

This product assists in the absorption of carbohydrates and the regulation of sugars in the blood, which is crucial in the treatment of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). High insulin levels can cause imbalances in hormones and make it more difficult to lose fat.

The white kidney bean is a natural blocker for carbohydrates, thereby, helping to avoid immoderate sugar spikes and keeping the energy flow constant. After including this in my diet, I have experienced less desire for food and more controlled intake of food.

3. Berberine (Consult your OB-GYN before taking this!) 

Berberine is among the foremost studied supplements for PCOS. It increases insulin sensitivity, just like metformin, and minimizes androgen levels which cause acne and hirsutism.

However, make sure to discuss it with your doctor first as it can have interactions with certain drugs and conditions. I use this supplement in cycles and have felt a rise in my energy, mood, and more control over my appetite.

4. L-Glutathione

Hormonal imbalance may have been your reason for experiencing the dark patches (like neck or underarms) or dull skin, so you probably need to resort to glutathione. It is not only a skin whitener; it also supports liver detoxification which consequently brings about hormonal balance.

My main reason for taking it is to support skin and liver, and gradually, it has made my complexion uniform and lessened the dark spots on my body.

5. Collagen 

Collagen has multiple benefits, including skin elasticity, repair, and joint health. Moreover, it can aid in strengthening your gut lining — thus, the cycle of better gut and hormonal balance continues.

After I started taking collagen regularly, I saw a reduction in body acne and a quicker healing of my skin after breakouts. Besides, it is a wonderful supplement that helps you to keep skin firmness and radiance.

6. Fish Oil (Any brand)

Omega-3 fats are very important when it comes to fighting inflammation, normalizing hormones, and keeping the heart in good condition. Fish oil can also assist in making insulin work better, controlling triglycerides, and giving skin a healthy look.

This is a supplement that I might take for the rest of my life. It benefits my mood, helps me with hormonal balance, and controls inflammation, all these things that PCOS usually interferes with.

7. Multivitamins (I take Thorne)

Even if they consume a balanced diet, women suffering from PCOS are commonly deficient in vitamin D, B-complex, zinc, and magnesium, all of which are crucial for hormone production and energy metabolism.

Among the cleanest formulations I have ever encountered are Thorne’s multivitamins, which do not contain any unnecessary fillers but only essentials that provide daily support to your body.

8. Magnesium 

For women suffering from PCOS, magnesium is a rare but very valuable mineral. It lowers stress, facilitates good sleep, and equalizes the levels of insulin and cortisol in the body.

My experience with magnesium was that it got me to sleep better and I had fewer headaches (which I normally had a lot of before my period). It also aids in muscle recovery particularly when one is engaging in routine exercises.

9. NAD+ (True Niagen or Thorne Niacel)

This topic is quite complex. However, among the benefits of NAD+ boosters are cellular repair, energy metabolism, and anti-aging support.

It is not a miracle treatment, but if you always feel exhausted or slow, it can support the efficiency of your cells. The supplementation of NAD+ made my energy levels steady all day long.

Having PCOS isn’t easy [and I keep cursing my life because of PCOS 😓😭], it affects your skin, mood, body, and confidence. But taking the time to understand what your body needs and nourishing it from within really does make a difference.

These supplements don’t replace a healthy diet or lifestyle, but they do help fill the gaps and support your body’s healing process.

Always remember to consult your OB-GYN or healthcare provider before starting any supplement; what works for me might need adjusting for you.

Plus, DO NOT FORGET: 

• your lifestyle
• stress
• environment
• sleep [THE MOST IMPORTANT OF THEM ALL - NO SUPPLEMENT CAN COMBAT THIS]
• and what you eat