Nothing Tastes As Good As Healthy Feels

Aug 5, 2024

3 min read

I recently went on a trip to visit one of my friends in Chicago and whenever I travel, my anxiety rises just thinking about the mental gymnastics I'll be doing to find a place to eat. Will I be able to ‘go with the flow,’ or will I need to plan every detail to ensure I don't trigger my PCOS symptoms?

Here’s my truth: it's hard, but nothing tastes as good as healthy feels. If you’re wondering what I mean by that, it means that yes there will be hurdles but it's important to remember what your goals are. Mine are to feel my best and improve my PCOS symptoms. So every time I think about indulging because ‘I’m on vacation,’ I know I'll almost always immediately regret it.

For me, it’s just not worth it, and I hope by the end of this post, I can change how you view balancing certain foods so you can feel your best. Life is about things in moderation and I won't tell you to never have a cookie again, it's just remembering why you don't have them every day, and not losing sight of your healthy habits because you are on a trip.

As someone working on healing from PCOS, I have made significant dietary changes to support my gut and digestion. Most importantly, I focus on managing my insulin sensitivity. In the context of PCOS, insulin sensitivity refers to how effectively the body’s cells respond to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.

Poor insulin sensitivity can lead to weight gain, excess hair and acne, high blood pressure, heart disease, and is a significant factor in type 2 diabetes. So, I do everything I can to manage it. But what exactly am I managing? If it’s just about keeping hormones and acne at bay and avoiding the potential of diabetes, is it worth it?

Absolutely!

When I eat foods that spike my glucose without balance, I can experience several symptoms, including:

1. Fatigue

2. Cravings

3. Weight Gain

4. Frequent Hunger

5. Brain Fog

6. Increased Thirst and Urination

7. Mood Swings

8. Skin Changes

Managing sugar intake and focusing on a balanced diet can help reduce these symptoms and improve overall health. Instead of dwelling on what I can’t eat, I focus on the abundance of delicious, nourishing foods that support my body and well-being. By choosing to eat what’s right for me, I’m not only managing my PCOS symptoms but also embracing a healthier, happier life.

Eating the right foods has transformed my relationship with food. I no longer see it as a series of restrictions but as a journey towards healing and empowerment. Every meal is an opportunity to fuel my body with the nutrients it needs to thrive. I’ve discovered new favourite foods and recipes that are both satisfying and beneficial.

It’s not about depriving yourself but about making choices that honour your health and body. When you start seeing food as a tool for healing rather than a source of temptation, your mindset shifts. You begin to appreciate the way your body responds positively to the right foods.

The benefits extend beyond just symptom management. Improved energy levels, better mood, and clearer skin are just a few of the rewards. By focusing on what you can eat and exploring new, healthy options, you open yourself up to a world of culinary possibilities that are both delicious and nutritious.

Remember, the journey to healing is unique for everyone. Finding what works for you might take time and experimentation, but it’s worth it. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and be kind to yourself. Eating what’s right for you is a powerful step towards reclaiming your health and living your best life.