HOW DOES THE FIRSTLINE THERAPY PROGRAM HELP WITH PCOS?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), in very basic terms, is due to an imbalance of a group of hormones leading to weight gain, increased acne or hair growth, and irregular or absence of menstrual periods due to lack of ovulation. The syndrome is diagnosed based on symptoms, combined with ultrasound and lab results.
Often, the patient’s ovaries will have a very specific “look” on ultrasound, showing multiple small follicles grouped around the perimeter of the ovary like “a string of pearls”. Lab results often show an elevated glucose level or glucose and insulin levels. If the endocrine system is not functioning properly, glucose cannot be properly absorbed and stored in the body, thus showing up as an excess in the patient’s blood. If the pancreas is working overtime to pump out insulin, high levels of this hormone may appear in the blood as well. Chronic high levels of glucose and insulin are an indication of diabetes, and this can be a major concern and risk factor for developing other health problems like stroke or heart attack.
Another abnormal lab finding is elevated testosterone. Although considered “the male sex hormone”, it is normal in lower doses in the female patient. However, when the levels are higher than normal, the patient may experience facial hair, acne, mood swings and irregular periods. All of these hormones affect each other as well as impacting the “female hormones” that control the menstrual cycle (follicle stimulating hormone, leutenizing hormone, estrogen and progesterone). The absence of a menstrual period is due to lack of ovulation because of the disruption of the normal hormone flow and unusual physical attributes of the ovary itself.
Studies have shown that for the most common type of PCOS, weight loss and dietary changes significantly reduces physical symptoms, helps prevent pre-diabetic or diabetic conditions, regulates menstrual cycles, and increases chances of pregnancy.
The FLT program will teach patients with PCOS how, what, and when to eat. They will learn how much and what type of exercise they need to be doing on a regular basis. They will be evaluated for balance of fat to lean muscle mass. Patients will then be given protocols specifically and individually designed to help reach their goals. Monitoring the changes in laboratory values as well as physical transformations will keep the patient focused and motivated throughout the program.
The FLT program is more than just a way to treat PCOS. It is a LIFESTYLE change that will benefit the patient for the rest of her life.
Your personalized First Line Therapy program offers:
- Practitioner consultations
- Initial and follow-up labs and evaluations
- Program guidebook
- Solutions for staying active
- Simple eating guidelines
- Progress tracking
- Lifestyle counseling
- Nutritional product recommendations
- Solutions for managing stress
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Program Costs
- 6 Appointments with the Doctors and Lifestyle Educator over 12 weeks. Cashpay amount is $590. These visits may be covered by your insurance. Make sure to discuss with the True Harmony Staff to review the details of your personal insurance coverage.
- Medical Food and Supplementation. Retail costs of Metagenix UltraMeal products and Fish Oil Supplements - contact the office for today's prices and specials.
Dr. Grobe ND, Dr. Brass OB/GYN, Jenna Boettner -Lifestyle Educator, Lorri Woodmansee – Lifestyle Educator, will guide you through a process that will change your life for the better. Learn how to be healthy, learn what your body needs.
FirstLine Therapy (FLT) can help you regain health
FirstLine Therapy is a specialized therapeutic lifestyle change program unlike any other in that the FLT system targets the underlying causes of chronic illnesses by incorporating a sensible eating plan, exercise, nutritional supplementation and stress management. In fact, the following key characteristics are unique to the FLT program.
FLT is not just a weight loss program
Most programs are focused on weight while FLT is best used as a first line treatment for common, chronic health problems (eg. High cholesterol, insulin resistance, unhealthy body composition).
The FLT eating plan is different
Most programs are focused on lowfat diets while FLT emphasizes the importance of a low-glycemic eating plan that is consistent with current research.
FLT incorporates medical foods and nutritional supplements
The appropriate use of medical foods and supplements enhances program effectiveness and shortens the time it takes for you to achieve risk reduction goals.
Send your questions to info@trueharmonywellness.com or call 480-539-6646 and we'll help you get started. This article was written by MaryAnn Shostek PA-C and Dr. Denise Grobe ND for the use by the Center for True Harmony Community.
