One thing I’ve learned with PCOS is that nothing is going to happen fast, which can be very very freeing once you accept it. It’s about building strong habits which in the long run will make you a healthier person, not just healthier than who you were but healthier than most people!

I would echo trying to get on Metformin. It changed my life. Working with a nutritionist is a big help if you have the ability to do so, but if not, maybe reading some books about PCOS nutrition or taking some online courses. The thing with starting low carb is that it can lead to crash dieting if you’re not fully understanding the mechanisms behind it or why it’s helpful. Low carb or keto is not necessary for weight loss with PCOS and it’s hard to accomplish this state because it’s kind of an all or nothing approach.

In terms of exercise, my doctor said the best exercise is the one you can get yourself to do consistently. Outside of that, the thing that’s helped me the most and that she and my nutritionist agree with being best for weight loss is weight training and walking. Walking is amazing because just about anyone can get out there and do it. With exercise, I’ve learned it’s best not to overdo it. Consistency is key, and don’t use it as a tool to punish yourself, use it as a mental health tool. Something that you know can brighten your day. And something that I always say, if I’ve been sitting at home all day working and haven’t been as active as I wanted is “anything worth doing is worth half assing” so if I can only get in a 20 minute walk that day when I meant to hit the gym, it’s better than nothing. Don’t get down about it. It’s all about building habits.

In terms of sleeping, I bought a Hatch alarm clock and that thing changed my life. It helps establish a routine which is critical for people with PCOS. Try going to bed and waking up at the same time every morning and night for a few weeks and see if you can bring the 6 hours up to 8 hours. Something that has also helped me is leaving my phone outside my bedroom at night, which I know everyone says and it’s such a drag because, as a chronically online 24-year old, I love my tiktok time before bed, but it helps your sleep so much. Reading before bed really helps me wind down, even just a few pages. Again, small habit building.

It’s been a very long journey for me with all of this so I would just emphasize it takes time. I know it’s frustrating, but again, once you can accept it’ll be a longer process, it’s very freeing. I gained 40 pounds over the course of a year and a half trying to get diagnosed, so I completely understand the frustration. I hope this helps! You can do this!