Catching up with Angela Grassi

I was glad to have the opportunity to catch up with Angela Grassi, author of The Dietitian's Guide to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. She is a registered and licensed dietitian who specializes in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and eating disorders.

Angela recognizes that, "Having PCOS myself, I realize how frustrating living with this condition can be, especially with all the conflicting nutritional and medical treatments suggested." After reading her book I wanted to know if she practices what she preaches and was interested in how she is able to stay on track with a nutrition and exercise plan.

Angela takes metformin daily and finds that it helps her with her hypoglycemia and insulin cravings and it has even cleared up her skin a bit. She eats a moderately-low glycemic diet and makes sure that her carbohydrate choices are whole grain and spread throughout the day. Angela recommends visiting The Wheat Foods Council website wheatfoods.org to learn how to incorporate lesser known grains like quinoa, kamut and spelt into your diet. Adequate amounts of omega 3 fatty acids are essential for her diet and help with mood and insulin resistance, as well as hair and skin quality.

When it comes to exercise, Angela is committed to her program. "I walk a 4-mile loop with hills at my local state park every day weather permitting. It is an hour to myself and really helps with my mood. I also strength train and practice Pilates 1-2x a week."

Angela also advises women with PCOS to find a support group such as the monthly one she runs in Pennsylvania. She explains," A support group is a great place for women with PCOS to share experiences, set goals and motivate each other." Topics can include infertility issues, body image, self care, binge or emotional eating and mood instability.

I find it encouraging meeting women like Angela Grassi, who have overcome their PCOS struggles and are in turn helping to educate not only other women with PCOS, but healthcare practitioners as well.

- Amy Medling