Gut Microbiome

The gut microbiome refers to the trillions of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms living in your digestive tract that collectively influence digestion, immune function, inflammation, hormone metabolism, neurotransmitter production, and even mood through the gut-brain axis. Research increasingly shows that women with PCOS have dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut bacterial composition characterized by reduced microbial diversity and an increase in inflammation-promoting bacterial species—which can contribute to the chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance central to the condition. Supporting gut health through dietary fiber, fermented foods, prebiotic-rich vegetables, targeted probiotic supplementation, and reducing processed food intake may help improve PCOS symptoms by restoring a healthier microbial balance.