PCOS , working out, and weightloss

So,

I realize there have been quite a few recent postings on here regarding PCOS.  Interesting that its so common. I guess I am writing becuase I have been on Metformin for two weeks now and have not seen any weight loss. I have always been a workout-a-holic, and a fairly strict eater.  So, I'm frustrated that with my diagnosis, the subsequent Metformin prescription and the fact that I recently starting a low-carb diet is not having any effect on my body. Is anyone else in a similar situation?  I am so frustrated.  Also, is there anyone who stuck through the Metformin despite the nausea.  It feels like it has been getting better, but will it ever completely go away?  Thanks

Hi,

I also have PCOS, diagnosed about 4 years ago and am 20-30lbs heavier than I was 10 years ago.  The weight definitely comes on faster than it comes off.  With insulin resistance it seems to be harder to lose weight.  I too have started glucophage about 2 weeks ago.  I have lost only 2 lbs. but have also been on a low to no carb diet in that time.  I am also frustrated with my weight loss b/c it seems like I work so hard for such little result.  I have just been telling myself that I am changing my diet lifestyle so I can be healthier and I just hope that the weight also comes off.  I know that isn't much help, but I can definitely empathize with your frustrations.

I would say to consult your doctor. And stick with it, hang in there, please don't quit!

I've had problems trying to lose weight with my PCOS. I was never put on meds, but I was working out six days a week, 45 cardio/30 weight training, and eating a 1000 calorie deficit and not losing weight. It wasn't until I cut out all refined carbohydrates and all sugar and all high glycemic index fruits/veggies that I finally started seeing results. I worked out and counted calories for about 3 months and was still gaining weight. Once I cut out all that stuff, I dropped 7 pounds in one week.

Have you tried the South Beach Diet? It seems to work really well for a lot of PCOSers on here, and it's not as restrictive as other low-carb diets.

Oh, and 2 pounds is still 2 pounds! I know it might seem like a drop in the bucket (I've lost 7, and have over 150 left to go), but it's still 2 pounds! And the slower it comes off, the more likely it is to stay off.

Keep your chin up, champ!

Hi. I also have PCOS. My doc put me on Metformin. The side effect it has on me is that I go to the bathroom - pronto. I just wondered if this side effect ever goes away or am I stuck with it for life? =(

If you stick with the metformin, your body should gradually get used to it... the icky side effects should gradually go away or at least get less.

I'm on the metformin, and had the side effects for the first few weeks, but they've gone away.  I've been on it for a few months now and don't have any side effects at all.

I'm also wondering if any of your doctors told you that you have metabolic syndrome which is an underlying cause of PCOS (high cholesterol, high blood pressure, fat around the abdomen) all caused by insulin resistance.  I just want everyone to know that you should have your cholesterol checked.  Mine is high, as well as very high triglycerides.  I don't consider myself an "unhealthy" person or at least i didn't until I was told that.  It all stems from our bodies not being able to metabolize the glucose in the carbohydrates like a normal person can.  (Yes, it stinks).  I am hoping, though, that a low carb diet will help with this.  Just and FYI for those of you with the same symptoms.  Good luck to everyone with your diets. 

Kajikit and rdgatewood - Thank you for the information. I am glad I am not stuck with the side effects for life. :)

I've been on metformin for PCOS for about 9 months.  At first the weight came off super slowly, but the more I lose, the easier it seems to be coming off.  Of course I used to use it as an excuse as to why I had a hard time losing weight, but now I use it as a motivator...I know I have to work just that much harder.

 One question though...my doc said something to me about most likely being able to get off the meds once I lose weight.  I didn't think much about it then, but now I'm wondering...my PCOS won't go away just because I've lost weight, so will my symptoms?

I don't think that the PCOS ever goes away.  I think that the symptoms can be lessened by weight loss, but it is in our genes.  Unfortunatly, I think this is  a lifetime battle.  But keep up the good work.  I'm sure if you've lost weight you are already seeing a difference in the symptoms

So I was diagnosed with PCOS in October and put straight on met.  The main symptom I had was weight gain as I was on the pill and didnt know I had a problem in that area until I came off it and didn't go back into a normal cycle.    So i wasn't exactly large  at 5ft6 i was 158 at my maximum weight, but  I exercise for approximately 9hours a week (cardio for at least 8 hours) as I am a triathlete... and to be fair..it wasn't right that I could eat less than 1000 cals a day and still gain weight.  It finally took an ultrasound to work out what was wrong as my hormones are "within range".  my blood sugar was too high though and I was later told that due to my age and active lifestyle...that i could have a different hormone range - hence the ultrasound diagnosis. 

 I tried absolutely everything...  luckily  after about 2 months on met i started losing weight gradually  and now I am down to 138...   aiming for my happy weight of 135... but feel a million times better.  Am also now seeing a dermatologist to fix my acne (back not face..)  i think met is an awesome drug..but if you have concerns your doc should help.  its not a quick fix..but its a really good one  so if the side effects aren't too hard...(they usually go away with time)  i would stick with it and have patience. 

Good luck!

I think it's important to note that Metformin is used to treat insulin resistance and is not meant to be used for weight loss.  Did you have your insulin levels checked?  It's usually done simultaneously with a glucose tolerance test (where you drink this disgusting sugar water stuff and have your blood tested every hour to see how your body reacts) - high insulin levels are usually the cause of pcos & also the reason for the weight gain since insulin in the hormone in the body that stores the food we eat as fat.  However, any weight loss resulting from the medicine is a great side effect and benefit - not the reason for the meds.  Your nausea should subside after a while.  Just be sure to take it with food - I find that helps.  Good luck!

ok this is scary after i had mydaughter i had gotten ashermanns due to an emergency d&c i had to get bc my lining of my uterus got to thick. got that fixed now im diagnosed with pcos i havent gotten my period in 2months my doc has now got me taking progesterone n estrodial combined for a 10 day period to get my period rite after and then take birth control pills monthly to keep up with my period monthly otherwise i wont get my period. im scared bc i dont want my wieghtloss to be super difficult being that it will already will be. it will make me more unmotivated.lol. o gosh im super confused now. :(

there are many studies that show that women with pcos taking glucophage/metformin for insulin resistance are able to lose weight more effectively (i.e., more "normally" so to speak)

Original Post by pinkcobra:

I've been on metformin for PCOS for about 9 months.  At first the weight came off super slowly, but the more I lose, the easier it seems to be coming off.  Of course I used to use it as an excuse as to why I had a hard time losing weight, but now I use it as a motivator...I know I have to work just that much harder.

Hey Pinkcobra - can I ask what your BMI is? Cos I've read in many places that for Metformin to really work, you need to be above 30 BMI.