PCOS and VItamin D

Recently, my doctor told me that I am deficient in vitamin D. She instructed me to take twice the daily recommended amount and to come back for further blood tests. I started out okay by taking a tablet with 1000 IU (whatever that is) of Vitamin D, which claims to be 250% of the daily rec. dose. But, as per usual with me and pills I'm supposed to take, I slowly forgot to take them and eventually stopped completely.

Today, though, I got a newsletter that I subscribe to through email telling me that new research indicates women with PCOS (Poly-cystic Ovary Syndrome) are typically deficient in Vitamin D, which contributes to insulin resistance. Now, I don't understand everything about the disease, but I do know that it's the insulin resistance that is a huge factor in my weight problems. My doctor has already prescribed Metformin for this problem, but do I take it like I should? No.

I think getting this newsletter today is a sign. Plain and simple. In order to be healthy, I'm going to have to start taking my pills regularly. You wouldn't think that something simple like a deficiency of Vitamin D would cause problems, but apparently it aggravates the symptoms of PCOS, makes you feel tired and drowsy, and can lead to weight issues. Taking a couple of pills a day could help dramatically, so I better start taking it today and stick with it. The problem with the metformin, which I know I've said before in this blog, is that it makes my tummy sick. I do know from earlier experience with it, however, that after a month or two, the sickness starts to go away. I just have to be more careful what I eat, but that is good for me anyway.

The lesson here: Listen to your doctor and take your pills. Also, women with PCOS should be tested for Vitamin D levels, because it may be contributing to your health issues. I will give an update in a month or two and let you know if taking the Vitamin D and Metformin together help me to lose weight and have more energy.