PCOD: 5 main reasons behind hormonal imbalance that women should know
PCOD is a hormonal imbalance that affects millions of women around the world today. It is a condition in which the ovaries produce excessive male hormones and ovulation is blocked. The main reasons for this are:
Poor lifestyle: Lack of exercise and excessive consumption of junk foods are the main reasons for the increase in PCOD. Decreased physical activity affects the body’s metabolism and disrupts the hormonal balance.
Insulin Resistance: This is a condition in which the cells do not respond properly to the insulin produced by the body to control blood sugar. This causes an increase in insulin in the blood, and high levels of insulin stimulate the ovaries to produce more male hormones (androgens).
Stress and insomnia: Excessive stress increases the level of the cortisol hormone in the body. This disrupts the balance of other hormones and causes changes in the menstrual cycle.
Obesity and inflammation: Weight gain increases insulin resistance and causes a type of ‘low-grade inflammation’ in the body. This disrupts the natural functions of the ovaries.
Hereditary factors: If a mother or sister in the family has PCOD, it is more likely to occur. Studies suggest that certain genes may be responsible for this hormonal change.