Wellness Journey

PCOS and Weight Gain: 7 Ways This Hormonal Disorder Slows Down Your Metabolism

If you're living with PCOS and feel like your metabolism has hit a wall—you're not imagining it. Weight gain is one of the most common and frustrating symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). And it’s not just about calories in vs. calories out. PCOS affects your body at a hormonal level, changing how you process food, store fat, and even how hungry you feel.

Let’s break down 7 key ways PCOS disrupts your metabolism—and what you can start doing about it.

Inflammation, Insulin Resistance, and Diabetes: 7 Facts That Could Change How You Manage Your Health

When it comes to managing blood sugar and preventing type 2 diabetes, most of us think about carbs, sugar, and maybe a little exercise. But there’s another major player hiding in plain sight: chronic inflammation.

New research shows that inflammation is more than just a side effect—it may be a root cause of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. If you’re struggling with fatigue, belly weight, cravings, or blood sugar spikes, inflammation could be the missing link.

Endometriosis Stages Explained: What Each One Means for Your Pain, Period, and Treatment

Endometriosis affects everyone differently—but many people don’t realize it’s actually classified into four stages. These stages help doctors understand how much tissue is present, where it’s located, and how it might affect your symptoms or fertility.

But here’s the truth: The stage of your endometriosis doesn’t always match the intensity of your pain. Some women with stage 1 are in daily agony. Others with stage 4 may feel less pain. That’s why knowing your stage is helpful—but it’s only part of the picture.

How Is Endometriosis Diagnosed? What to Expect From Scans, Surgeries, and Symptom Checks

Struggling with painful periods, bloating, or pelvic pain and wondering if it could be endometriosis? You're not alone—and you're not imagining things.

Getting a diagnosis can feel like a frustrating waiting game. But understanding what doctors actually look for—and what tests are used—can make the process feel more manageable.

Here’s everything you need to know about how endometriosis is diagnosed, step by step.

Is Your Period Extra Heavy? Endometriosis Might Be the Reason—Here’s What to Know

Soaking through pads in an hour? Bleeding for more than a week? Experiencing intense cramps that leave you curled up on the couch?

If your period feels like more than “just a bad month,” it could be endometriosis. This condition affects 1 in 10 women and is often linked to heavier, longer, and more painful periods.

Let’s break down why endometriosis can cause such heavy bleeding—and what you can do to feel better.

The Hidden Triggers of HS: What You Touch, Eat, and Feel Could Be Fueling Flare-Ups

Living with Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is more than just managing pain—it’s managing the unknown. Why did that flare-up happen now? What triggered it this time? If you’ve asked yourself those questions, you’re not alone.

While HS isn’t caused by anything you did wrong, certain everyday triggers—from friction and food to heat and emotional stress—can make symptoms worse.

This guide uncovers some of the most common (and sneaky) HS flare-up triggers, and shares practical tips to help you avoid them so you can feel more in control.

Recipes

Golden Glow Rice (Turmeric Pumpkin Rice) Recipe

This Turmeric Pumpkin Rice is a powerhouse dish for anyone managing inflammatory conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, HS, or lupus.

The turmeric’s curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory, while the pumpkin adds fiber and vitamins to support hormone balance and immune health. Coconut milk brings healthy fats, garlic and onions boost the immune system, and thyme and pimento add more anti-inflammatory benefits. Plus, black pepper helps your body absorb all the goodness from the turmeric! It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that can help keep inflammation in check while nourishing your body.

Beer-Braised Molasses Chicken with Peppers and Onions

Nothing says comfort quite like a warm, rich, and flavorful chicken dish that also supports your wellness journey. This Beer-Braised Molasses Chicken with Peppers and Onions brings together the robust sweetness of molasses and a unique blend of herbs and spices that each have their own healing benefits. Molasses, rich in antioxidants, adds depth to this dish while lending anti-inflammatory benefits that make it more than just a treat for your taste buds. And with bell peppers, high in vitamins C and A, this meal becomes a powerhouse for immune support, adding a vibrant splash of color and gentle sweetness.

Pan-Seared Silver Snapper with Coconut Pepper Sauce

This dish combines the richness of coconut, the heat of Scotch Bonnet pepper, and the aromatic blend of herbs and spices for a delightful and flavorful meal. Adjust spice levels to suit your taste preference.

Health Pulse

The Role of Sugar in Endometriosis and its Management

Recent research suggests that high sugar intake may worsen endometriosis, a painful inflammatory condition affecting many women. Sugar can contribute to inflammation and insulin resistance, which are known to exacerbate endometriosis symptoms like pain and infertility. High sugar environments may also fuel the growth of endometrial cells, increasing the risk of endometrial cancer. Reducing sugar and following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods could help manage symptoms and support medical treatments. While more research is needed, cutting back on sugar may offer relief and improve quality of life for those with endometriosis.

Recent Developments in Endometriosis Research

Endometriosis, a painful condition affecting about 10% of women of reproductive age, has been historically under-researched, but recent studies are uncovering new insights. Advances in genetics have revealed genetic markers linked to endometriosis, opening pathways for targeted treatments. However, drug development has stalled, with many potential therapies showing limited effectiveness or side effects. Promising treatments like GnRH antagonists and aromatase inhibitors are emerging, although challenges remain, particularly for fertility preservation. Innovations in genomics and proteomics hold potential for personalized treatment, offering hope for improved, individualized care for those with endometriosis.