Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Iowa City, IA
Are you ready to reclaim your joy, time, and confidence through nutrition and wellness? Through Intuitive Eating and the Health at Every Size® approach, I am here to support you in your pursuit of well-being without fad diets, restriction, or a focus on your weight. We‘ll define what health means to you and focus on the behaviors and habits that can help you feel your best, while still letting you enjoy all of the foods and activities you love. I practice evidence-based nutrition, but always combine my knowledge with your lived experience so my approach is 100% individualized.
Are you ready to reclaim your joy, time, and confidence through nutrition and wellness? Through Intuitive Eating and the Health at Every Size® approach, I am here to support you in your pursuit of well-being without fad diets, restriction, or a focus on your weight. We‘ll define what health means to you and focus on the behaviors and habits that can help you feel your best, while still letting you enjoy all of the foods and activities you love. I practice evidence-based nutrition, but always combine my knowledge with your lived experience so my approach is 100% individualized.
Kristina (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who has dedicated her life to helping individuals who are healing their relationship with food and body. Her expertise expands to helping individuals recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting and co-occurring mood disorders. Kristina believes in weight inclusive care, anti-diet approach and Health at Every Size. Kristina strives to create a safe environment for growth and healing by utilizing trauma informed principles. Kristina approaches health from emotional, physical, and mental well being.
Kristina (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who has dedicated her life to helping individuals who are healing their relationship with food and body. Her expertise expands to helping individuals recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting and co-occurring mood disorders. Kristina believes in weight inclusive care, anti-diet approach and Health at Every Size. Kristina strives to create a safe environment for growth and healing by utilizing trauma informed principles. Kristina approaches health from emotional, physical, and mental well being.
I have been a practicing Dietitian for more than 15 years, specializing in sports nutrition and functional nutrition with an emphasis in performance fueling, weight management, gut health, thyroid conditions and menopause/hormone health.
I do not believe there is a one-size-fits-all plan regarding nutrition and always take an individualized approach with my clients to develop sustainable habits around both nutrition and lifestyle aimed specifically toward reaching their individual goals.
I have been a practicing Dietitian for more than 15 years, specializing in sports nutrition and functional nutrition with an emphasis in performance fueling, weight management, gut health, thyroid conditions and menopause/hormone health.
I do not believe there is a one-size-fits-all plan regarding nutrition and always take an individualized approach with my clients to develop sustainable habits around both nutrition and lifestyle aimed specifically toward reaching their individual goals.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalance, leading to symptoms such as irregular or absent periods, weight gain, excess hair growth, infertility, and acne. The exact causes of PCOS are not well understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including stress and nutrition.
How is PCOS treated?
PCOS is typically treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Many individuals with PCOS are prescribed birth control medication to help regulate the abnormal hormone levels associated with the condition. With regard to lifestyle modifications, healthcare professionals often recommend maintaining a balanced, healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity. This is particularly important for women diagnosed with obesity or diabetes, as weight loss and improved insulin regulation can significantly alleviate PCOS symptoms.
What diet is best for people with PCOS?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutritional approach to managing PCOS. Because women diagnosed with PCOS are at a higher risk of specific conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart problems, a diet that helps prevent such conditions can be highly effective. The "Mediterranean diet," characterized by the consumption of lots of healthy fats, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is one common diet with evidence supporting its efficacy in preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In addition, other lifestyle modifications that support weight management and healthy insulin levels—such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction—are often also incorporated into PCOS treatment.
What foods should people with PCOS avoid?
Due to the high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance characteristic of PCOS, experts typically advise individuals with PCOS to avoid foods that cause large blood sugar spikes, such as sugary snacks and refined carbs like white bread. Instead, they recommend consuming foods rich in healthy fats, whole grains, and fiber, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Individuals with PCOS may also find that certain foods trigger their symptoms. Therefore, identifying and avoiding these specific foods can be important for reducing symptom severity on an individual level.