Volvo Plug-in Hybrids
Electric cars with a backup plan. Great for everyday trips and longer journeys.
A Taste of Fall in This Flavorful Issue
As autumn settles in and the air turns crisp, it’s time to savor the comforting flavors of the season. October's edition is our most delectable yet, filled with delightful stories and mouth watering recommendations that capture the essence of fall.
I’m thrilled to highlight Olive R Twist Olive Oil Company, a beloved spot for gourmet enthusiasts in Ridgewood. Founders Marianne Krantz and Andrea Volter turned their passion for premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars into a unique experience. Inspired by a memorable tasting trip, they opened Olive R Twist in 2018, featuring over 60 varieties of oils and vinegars in an inviting tasting room. For an inside look at their journey and what makes their journey so inspiring, check out page 24.
We also had the pleasure of visiting Saddle River Inn, where Chef Jamie Knott shared his enthusiasm for crafting both classic and inventive dishes in a historic and charming setting. From venison with fall vegetables to the famed Beef Wellington, Knott’s menu reflects his dedication to quality and creativity. To explore what makes Saddle River Inn a standout dining destination, turn to page 16.
As Halloween draws near, the area comes alive with festive parades and events. My wife is currently navigating the whirlwind of costume ideas for our four daughters, and it looks like we might end up with last-minute decisions. Have you picked out your Halloween costume yet? If you’re anything like my family, it might be a bit of a scramble as the big day approaches!
This issue celebrates the art of comfort food, which not only satisfies the palate but also evokes cherished memories. The rich flavors and aromas of fall have a special way of bringing people together, whether around the family table or at local favorites.
As we embrace the season of harvest and reflection, I hope this edition inspires you to enjoy the flavors of fall and create your own special memories. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to seeing you around town. If you’d like to catch up over dinner, just let me know.
JAKE SLOWINSKI, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR @NORTHERNHIGHLANDSCITYLIFESTYLE
October 2024
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
Jake Slowinski | jake.slowinski@citylifestyle.com
Anthony Rizzo | anthony.rizzo@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Carly Mac Manus | carly.macmanus@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Harvey Miguel
INTERN
Justina Schiavone
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Helen Denise, Jennifer K. Murray
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Rich Silivanch, Michael Lago, Patty Connelly, Jeanette Donnarumma
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Andrew Sapad
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Upper Saddle River Library hosted their first-ever Family Fort Night! 2: Allendale BOE received a generous donation from AFEE to fund new playgrounds and learning experiences. 3: Olive R Twist celebrated Ridgewood’s Summer Sale Days with vibrant flavors and special deals. 4: Ho-Ho-Kus Police and Volunteer Ambulance Corps were honored for their prehospital save of a resident’s life. 5: Junior Police Academy Cadets were able to visit the Port Authority Fire Department this summer! 6: Ho-Ho-Kus Junior Police Academy cadets visited the Bergen County Law and Public Safety Institute. 7: Officer Zachmann, Officer Cronin, and Ho-Ho-Kus Volunteers honored with CPR Save Award for lifesaving efforts. @USRLIBRARY
Want to be seen in the magazine?
@ARSTENHIGBIE
ELDER LAW, GUARDIANSHIP, ESTATE LITIGATION & ADMINISTRATION
Carol A. Hawk is a partner with Meyerson, Fox & Conte, PA, and has been associated with the firm since 2002. Carol’s practice focuses primarily on representation of clients in estate matters, including complex estate administration, preparation of estate and fiduciary tax returns and accounting issues. Carol has extensive experience in contested will and estate litigation and other probate litigation as well as developing a real estate practice in New York and New Jersey. Carol is recognized as an experienced practitioner in accounting issues as well as in the areas of guardianship law and probate law. She has received numerous court appointments in several counties as guardian ad litem, Administratrix C.T.A., Trustee and court-appointed attorney for alleged incapacitated individuals.
AT LAW
1 Paragon Drive, Montvale, NJ 07645 (201) 802-9202 | www.mfmclaw.com chawk@mfmclaw.com
Carol A. Hawk
Knead A BagelGrand Opening!
Knead A Bagel celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Mayor Thomas Randall, along with Councilman Dane Policastro, Chamber Commissioner Steve Shell, and Chamber President Max Stokes, welcomed owners Rahaf Zitouna and Rima Zakaria to Ho-Ho-Kus. Congratulations on your new venture!
Petzlove Food 'n Stuffz Montvale Celebrates One Year!
Petzlove Food 'n Stuffz Montvale is celebrating one year of business this October! Veteran family-owned and operated, David and Tiffany Turetzky, along with their kids Zach, Zoe and Cooper the Doodle, bring the best in pet care to The Shoppes at DePiero Farms in Montvale. Discover top pet food brands, high-quality kibbles, raw diets, and more. Open daily at 54 Farm View, Montvale.
Allendale Scouts Honored at Council Meeting for Blood Drive Support
After their incredible support at NYCB's recent blood drive, Allendale Scouts were honored at July’s Council Meeting with a special patch from the Borough Council. Their dedication is ongoing, as they assisted again at the September blood drive. Thank you, Scouts, for making a difference in the Community!
Photography by @petzlovefood.montvale
Photography by @hhkborough
Photography by Borough of Allendale
Love at First Bite
Be Sure To Explore the Culinary Greatness of Saddle River Inn This Fall!
ARTICLE BY JENNIFER K. MURRAY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICH SILIVANCH
BLACK BASS: shiitake, scallions, watercress, aromatic asian broth
It’s no surprise that chef-owner Jamie Knott immediately fell in love with Saddle River Inn. Knott says, “I fell in love immediately. I mean, the charm! It’s such a lovely setting. Such a charming place on the Saddle River. It’s just really special. I like to say that it was ‘love at first bite’ because I just knew that it was meant for me.”
LEARNING ON THE JOB
Knott’s incredible career began by learning ‘on the job’ in many restaurants as a teen, including Nutley’s Franklin Steakhouse. This training was followed by culinary school in NYC at the acclaimed New York Restaurant School, while also working at Café Centro, under Chef Franck Deletrain. Continuing this culinary journey at some of the most prominent restaurants in New York City and New Jersey, this award-winning chef always knew that he wanted to branch out on his own.
Growing up in Nutley, Knott didn’t know much about the Inn. He was searching for just the right place to start his own restaurant, when he discovered the gorgeous Saddle River Inn. The historical Inn was originally an 1800s basket weaving factory and sawmill. During his visit to the spot, Knott had a vision of the perfect setting to share his skills.
“Our regulars are like an extended family, and our guests are everything. It’s a special place that’s found its own niche.”
EVERYTHING FELT JUST RIGHT
“It was one of those moments where everything felt just right. I was looking all over the state, honestly, at different places. I probably looked at 30 or 40 restaurants before seeing Saddle River Inn, and then my mind was fixated on it. Once I sat in the dining room, I felt the charming character and drove around the town. It’s a very special place for a lot of reasons.”
Knott sees Saddle River Inn as a neighborhood restaurant, which just happens to serve some of the most creative dishes in one of the best neighborhoods in the country.
“I always wanted to have a place like Gramercy Tavern, “ Knott explains.
Referring to one of America’s leading restaurants, the tavern is known for its unparalleled charm, delicious American cuisine, and incredibly warm hospitality.
“I think that’s a good place to be—a quintessential New York City restaurant. I love New York City, so I tried to bring a little bit of the city to the suburbs with Saddle River Inn, and I hope I succeeded.”
Knott closed on the Saddle River Inn on January 1, 2012, and re-opened the week before Valentine’s Day. Some minor renovations were done to brighten things up a bit—new tables, chairs, plateware, glassware, and silverware were added.
“We took all of the curtains down to let some of the natural sunlight in, to enjoy the view of the beautiful river. We added mirrors and updated the bathrooms.”
— Jamie Knott
A MENU OF FAVORITES
He certainly has succeeded in bringing a bit of NYC to Saddle River Inn, as well as his signature classy and unique dishes.
While there are many dishes that are popular at the Inn, everyone seems to have their own personal favorites. Known for truffles and truffle courses, they offer risotto and agnolotti pasta—made in-house, they’re like little pillows of pasta—that they’re famous for.
The menu reflects Knott’s travels and specialties. However, some dishes remain from the previous owners with Knott’s special touch, such as the center-cut filet mignon dish with chestnut butter and Bordelaise sauce—a French sauce that’s typically made with dry red wine, bone marrow, butter, shallots and sauce demi-glace.
“The previous owners, Hans and Imelda Egg, told me, ‘I think you should change the entire menu, but keep the Malabar dish on your menu. You can retire on that dish, like I did.’ Those were his exact words.”
FALL AND FAMILY
The fall season always inspires creativity in the kitchen. As for what Knott will be cooking up, he has yet to fully share, outside of a few hints:
“We do venison very well, and our guests love it. Not a lot of people serve it anymore, so we may do venison chops with fall vegetables. Maybe with butternut squash, brussels sprouts, apples, parsnips…perhaps with a huckleberry gastrique. (Yum!) That’s kind of a famous dish for the fall.”
“Beef Wellington actually is something that I’ve always wanted to add,” Knott excitedly continues, “That’s the famous dish of beef mushroom duxelle foie gras with a puff pastry, and finished with a red wine sauce.”
Outside of his hours in the kitchen at Saddle River Inn, Knott enjoys inspiring travel with his family, including a recent summer trip to Greece.
“We try to do one or two big trips a year. We like to explore the islands. We went to Italy last year for a while for 20 days to four different cities. We like history and culture, and I like my kids to see how the rest of the world lives.”
For fall fun with family, Knott enjoys carving pumpkins, going on haunted hayrides, and apple picking, when not busy sharing his culinary gifts with others.
AN EXTENDED FAMILY
With his family as his inspiration, Saddle River Inn is Knott’s passion. He’s had the same staff for 12 years, since they opened. His staff is like a big extended family. Each guest immediately becomes a part of that family. He adores his regular guests, who also adore him and his welcoming staff. He shares that they are all very close.
“Our regulars are like an extended family, and our guests are everything. It’s a special place that’s found its own niche.”
Now in lucky year 13, Knott looks forward to what the future holds at Saddle River Inn, enjoying serving new dishes with warmth and love, one day at a time.
Saddle River Inn
Address: 2 Barnstable Ct, Saddle River, NJ 07458
Phone: (201) 825-4016
Website: www.saddleriverinn.com
“I like to say that it was ‘love at first bite’ because I just knew that it was meant for me.”
— Jamie Knott
In the wake of a storm or emergency property damage, RestoPros Bergen Passaic is here for you
OUR SERVICES INCLUDE :
Insurance Claim Assistance
Emergency Response 24/7
Free Inspections
IICRC Certified Trained Professionals
Water Extraction and Mitigation
Structural Drying
Cleaning and Disinfecting
Mold and Odor Remediation
Sewage Cleanup
Residential & Commercial losses
As your local, familyowned experts, we're dedicated to helping you recover Give us a call - together, we'll get through this
OLIVE R TWIST OLIVE OIL COMPANY
A Journey of Flavor and Friendship
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL LAGO
Olive R Twist Olive Oil Company has become a cherished destination for gourmet lovers in Ridgewood, offering an unparalleled experience in fine olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Founders Marianne Krantz and Andrea Volter share a journey marked by passion, friendship, and a dedication to quality that brings customers back time and again.
Co-Owners - Marianne Krantz and Andrea Volter
“Many commercially available olive oils and balsamics are inferior, overly processed, or falsely labeled.” - Marianne Krantz
INSPIRATION BEHIND THE BUSINESS
The seeds for Olive R Twist were sown during a business trip Volter took to High Point, North Carolina. While staying with a friend in Raleigh, Volter was introduced to exceptional extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Her immediate fascination with these products led her to a store where she spent an hour sampling different varieties. This experience ignited her desire to open a similar store. When she shared her idea with Krantz, her longtime friend and former client, Krantz was equally enthusiastic. The duo, who had known each other since 2003, decided to partner up. They secured a location in Ridgewood, and after a period of renovation and extensive training, Olive R Twist opened its doors on May 1, 2018.
WHAT SETS OLIVE R TWIST APART
Olive R Twist is not just a store; it’s an experience. Unlike typical supermarkets or online stores, Olive
R Twist offers a ‘tasting room’ where customers can sample over 60 varieties of olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Krantz emphasizes the importance of tasting before purchasing, something that’s rare in conventional retail settings. The store’s commitment to high-quality, unrefined olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars ensures that customers are getting the best products available.
The choice to focus on these premium products came from a shared passion for fresh, healthy ingredients. Krantz explains, “Many commercially available olive oils and balsamics are inferior, overly processed, or falsely labeled.” Olive R Twist prides itself on offering products that are completely unrefined, made from early harvest olives, and fully traceable. This dedication extends to their gourmet food products and cooking classes, which complement their core offerings and provide customers with hands-on ways to learn about and enjoy their purchases.
EMBRACING FEMALE ENTREPRENEURSHIP
For Krantz and Volter, leading Olive R Twist is a testament to their belief in female empowerment and entrepreneurship. Krantz, who had previously worked in commercial banking, and Volter, an interior designer, both bring valuable skills and perspectives to their business. Krantz’s goal of being a role model for her daughter and inspiring young women through their business is central to her mission. The store’s workforce, which includes many women, reflects this commitment.
LOOKING AHEAD
The future of Olive R Twist looks bright. Volter envisions continuing to offer premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars while educating customers about their health benefits. They are also excited about periodically updating their specialty foods, gift items, and kitchenware to keep the store experience fresh and engaging.
Some of the store’s most memorable milestones include cooking classes and tasting events, which have been met with enthusiasm. These interactive experiences enhance the store’s appeal, providing customers with both education and entertainment.
ENHANCING THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
Cooking classes and custom gifts are integral to Olive R Twist’s offerings. Krantz notes, “These classes not only offer creative recipe ideas but also foster a fun environment where customers can explore new ways to use olive oils and balsamics.” Custom gift baskets and curated kitchenware make for perfect presents, appealing to everyone from home cooks to professional chefs. Customer feedback highlights the popularity of these classes and the joy of receiving personalized gifts.
Andrea Volter
“These
ingredients not only make dishes more flavorful but also offer significant health benefits. Fresh, coldpressed olive oil and barrel-aged balsamic vinegar can transform everyday cooking into gourmet experiences.” - Andrea Volter
ADVICE FOR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS
For those considering starting their own business, particularly women in the culinary industry, Volter’s advice is to believe in oneself and follow one’s passion. She emphasizes the importance of a solid business plan, focusing on one’s vision, and being open to advice and support. The journey of entrepreneurship is one of persistence, patience, and enjoyment.
THE ROLE OF QUALITY INGREDIENTS
For more information visit olivertwistoliveoil.com.
Volter firmly believes that high-quality ingredients like extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinegar are crucial for enhancing the culinary experience. Sharing, “These ingredients not only make dishes more flavorful but also offer significant health benefits. Fresh, cold-pressed olive oil and barrel-aged balsamic
vinegar can transform everyday cooking into gourmet experiences.”
COMMUNITY AND FUTURE ASPIRATIONS
Olive R Twist has found a supportive and vibrant community in Ridgewood. Krantz and Volter value their connection to Bergen County and appreciate the support of the local Chamber of Commerce. Their customers come from across the county and beyond, drawn by the promise of premium, healthy ingredients. As they look to the future, Krantz and Volter remain dedicated to their mission of providing exceptional products and experiences. Their story is one of friendship, passion, and a shared commitment to excellence that continues to enrich their community and inspire their customers.
FROM THE RACHAEL RAY SHOW TO RIDGEWOOD
ARTICLE BY CARLY MAC MANUS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTY CONNELLY, JEANETTE DONNARUMMA
Jeanette Donnarumma’s Fresh Take on Success
Jeanette Donnarumma’s career trajectory is a testament to the surprising twists life can take when you're open to new opportunities. An Emmy-award winning producer for her work on the Rachael Ray Show, Donnarumma has seamlessly transitioned from high-profile television production to establishing her roots and thriving in her local Bergen County community.
Donnarumma’s journey began in a rather unconventional manner. “I was studying biology and communications at Marymount Manhattan College when a friend suggested I intern at a brand-new talk show—Rachael Ray,” she recounts. Living just a street away from the studio, Donnarumma decided to give it a shot. “I rolled out of bed at 7:55 and made it to the studio by 8:00. I never left after that,” she says with a laugh.
Starting as an intern, Donnarumma climbed the ranks to become a supervising producer, contributing to the show’s success for 16 and a half seasons. “It was an incredible ride. We even won an Emmy together,” she says proudly. However, when the show wrapped up in the spring of 2023, Donnarumma faced a new chapter in her career and personal life.
With two young children at home, Donnarumma found herself reassessing her career path. “I was ready for a change,” she admits. “The long commute into the city
Jeanette Donnarumma's ' Mini charcuterie tree'
and the demands of a full-time TV career were starting to take a toll.” Serendipity struck when a production company reached out with a new opportunity. “They offered me a role in Charleston for a Food Network program. It was a chance to explore a different part of the country while continuing in the media field,” she explains. And most recently taking on a new venture in digital media production in Englewood Cliffs. This move not only allows her to stay closer to home but also to immerse herself in the evolving landscape of digital media.
Now back in her beloved Bergen County, Donnarumma is not only enjoying the perks of a shorter commute but also diving into community life with enthusiasm. She and her family relocated to Ridgewood in 2016, drawn by the area's charm and excellent schools. “We saved every penny to move here because we knew it was the right place for our family,” Donnarumma says.
Her passion for community extends beyond her family life. Donnarumma runs a small catering business, Salami and Sharks Catering, where she provides meal preparation services and creates unique food displays like her popular antipasto Christmas trees. “I found that a lot of my business comes from local referrals. The community here is incredibly supportive,” she notes.
This support has been a cornerstone of her business. “The level of community engagement here is unmatched. People drop off dinners, offer to babysit, and truly care about one another,” she says. This local camaraderie has been pivotal for her business, especially as she juggles her roles as a mother and a professional.
When she's not catering or working on media projects, Donnarumma enjoys exploring Bergen County with her family. “We love the local eateries and parks. It’s the perfect blend of convenience and community spirit,” she says. Her husband, who works in Newark, also benefits from their strategic location.
In reflecting on her journey from television producer to local entrepreneur, Donnarumma is both grateful and optimistic. “It’s been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. The community here has embraced me and my business in a way I never expected. It’s truly been a rewarding experience,” she concludes.
Donnarumma’s story shows how embracing change and nurturing local connections can lead to fulfilling personal and professional growth. For more information visit jeanettedonnarumma.com.
Jeanette and her antipasto Christmas tree!
Seeds of Change
It all started from a seed that sprouted within the community and blossomed into a vibrant hub for local engagement and sustainability: the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden. Born out of a grassroots effort by Ho-Ho-Kus resident Allison Lim of Hungry Harvest Garden, and made possible through an initiative by the Ho-Ho-Kus Mayor and Council and the Shade Tree and Beautification Committee, the community garden is transforming both the local landscape and the sense of community in this small town.
The journey began with Lim’s previous project, which she initiated as a Girl Scout leader. “We started a giving garden at the school that initially failed due to poor soil conditions,” Lim says. “But sometimes the hardest lessons teach you the most. The next season, we revamped the school garden and were able to harvest and donate nearly 500 pounds of vegetables.” These lessons lay the groundwork for the Ho-HoKus Community Garden.
Located adjacent to Borough Hall, the Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden features 410 square feet of growing space. The space was meticulously constructed by the town’s Department of Public Works, and is supported by donations from individuals and local businesses. “Our goal is
to create a space that not only beautifies the downtown area but also serves as a gathering place where the community can grow and harvest organic vegetables for those in need,” Lim explains.
The garden has flourished in its first season. “We have donated hundreds of pounds of produce to Oasis, an organization that serves the needs of women and children in Paterson,” Lim says. “We hope to reach close to 500 pounds of donations—or more—by the end of the growing season.”
The garden’s success is a testament to community involvement. Volunteers play a crucial role in its development and maintenance. “The sense of community and connection that grows from this garden is truly special,” Lim notes. “It brings people together in a meaningful way, fostering relationships and encouraging collective action.”
The Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden plans to expand its offerings and events. Future plans include hosting seasonal activities, such as pumpkin picking and farm days, which will further integrate the garden into the community fabric. “Our hope is to make the garden a central part of community life,” Lim adds. “It’s more than just a garden; it’s a place where people connect and contribute to something greater.” For more information please visit hhkborough.com/ho-ho-kus-community-garden
The Blossoming of Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden
Allison Lim and a Local Volunteer
“The sense of community and connection that grows from this garden is truly special.” -Allison Lim
The Ho-HoKus Community 'Pollinator Garden'
The Ho-Ho-Kus Community Garden
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
OCTOBER 5TH & 26TH
Halloween 2024Save the Dates!
The Red Barn at Crestwood Lake, Allendale | 12:00 PM
The Allendale Holiday Observers are hosting a series of exciting Halloween events in 2024. On October 5th, head to the Red Barn for a lively parade featuring costumes and festive spirit. Then, join the fun on October 26th at Brookside for a Halloween-themed painting activity and a thrilling costume contest.
OCTOBER 6TH
Ridgewood
Farmers’ Market
Ridgewood Train Station | 8:30 AM
Come check out a variety of fresh produce and local goodies at the Ridgewood Farmers’ Market, located on the West Side of the Ridgewood Train Station. Visit them for a taste of local flavor!
OCTOBER 6TH
Richard's Run HHK 5K
Borough Hall - 333 Warren Avenue, Ho-Ho-Kus | 10:00 AM
The Ho-Ho-Kus Education Foundation proudly presents Richard’s Run HHK 5K this October. This annual community event promotes health, wellness, and philanthropy, with proceeds supporting local education and pediatric cancer research. Join us for a fun, family-friendly race and post-race party!
OCTOBER 19TH-20TH
Fall Harvest Festival 2024
The Shoppes at DePiero Farm - 12100 Farm View, Montvale
The Fall Harvest Festival 2024 will showcase the autumn season with Fall Harvest Family Days. The entire family can enjoy autumn activities including wagon rides, wheat treading in the 16-sided barn, 18th century dancing demonstrations, a straw bale maze, farrier (blacksmithing) demonstrations, apple-roasting, corn husk dolls demonstrations and early-American games and music and more.
OCTOBER 26TH
Halloween
Costume Parade
Brookside School Auditorium - 100 Brookside Ave, Allendale | 5:00 PM
Enjoy a Halloween parade featuring spooky floats, creative costumes, and lively music winds through town. Families and friends gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere, with candy and treats for kids.
OCTOBER 28TH
Bobby Flay at Bookends in Ridgewood
Bookends - 211 East Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood | 6:00 PM
Catch celebrity chef Bobby Flay at Bookends in Ridgewood for a special signing event. Don’t miss this chance to meet the culinary icon and get your book signed!
MENTAL HEALTH WELLNESS
Center for Resiliency is a psychology practice with results-driven, compassionate therapists and evaluators.
We Test For: ADHD, Autism, Learning Disabilities, Giftedness, Twice Exceptional, ...& More!
Find Out What We Treat @ www.centerforresiliency.com
info@centerforresiliency.com www.centerforresiliency.com
IS IT TIME TO TALK ABOUT PCOS in Public?
LEARN MORE ABOUT WOMEN’S HEALTH WITH KNOWHEN®
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY HELEN DENISE
CEO KNOWHEN® - Helen Denise
Recently, I came across a petition from a women’s group addressed to the government, respectfully requesting immediate recognition and support for a complex hormonal disorder known as Poly Cystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Despite its prevalence, many people are unaware of PCOS, and I, too, might have remained ignorant about it if not for a life-altering experience 16 years ago. After a near-fatal ectopic pregnancy, I committed myself to helping women better understand their bodies, including their ovulation cycles and infertility, and to support their family planning goals naturally, using saliva tests.
Through my journey, I encountered numerous women struggling with infertility who were later diagnosed with PCOS. One crucial lesson I learned is that early diagnosis significantly increases a woman’s chance of conceiving. Over time, I assisted many women with PCOS, but it wasn’t until recently that I fully grasped the magnitude of the problem.
WHAT ARE THE EFFECTS OF PCOS?
PCOS affects much more than fertility. While it can make conception difficult, its impacts extend beyond that. Women with PCOS may experience hirsutism (excessive hair growth), insulin resistance, heart disease, and even uterine cancer.
CONTINUED >
PCOS is an endocrine disorder that disrupts several systems in a woman’s body, including her reproductive system. Although it’s not solely a gynecological issue, it still hinders many women from conceiving. PCOS affects up to 10 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 50. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, kidney problems, and other severe issues.
Raising awareness and educating women about PCOS is essential. Education can empower women to understand symptoms, seek treatment, and improve their quality of life. Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage PCOS symptoms and improve overall health. Symptoms of PCOS include significant weight gain, hair loss, depression, thyroid issues, high cholesterol, excessive facial and body hair, cystic ovaries, irregular menstrual cycles, high testosterone levels, and infertility.
IS THERE A CURE FOR PCOS?
Currently, there is no cure for PCOS. However, it is a manageable condition. Treating the symptoms is crucial in reducing the risk of future health problems. Early detection, treatment, and support are vital in managing PCOS and mitigating its physical and emotional complications.
PCOS contributes to several leading causes of death and disability among women today, and many who struggle with infertility may be unknowingly affected by undiagnosed PCOS. With proper education, diagnosis, and treatment, living a healthier life with PCOS is achievable. Women between the ages of 15 and 50 who experience menstrual and ovulation irregularities, along with excessive weight gain, should be tested for PCOS. Your healthcare provider, especially your OBGYN, should be aware
of the seriousness of PCOS and work diligently to diagnose it early.
ONE METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING PCOS
Throughout my 16 years working in the fertility field, I’ve collaborated with many doctors to help women with infertility issues. The first time I encountered PCOS was through an OBGYN who suggested using a saliva ovulation test to track ovulation cycles. He explained that if a woman consistently saw a fern leaf pattern in her saliva over three weeks, it could indicate high estrogen levels, a potential symptom of PCOS. Many women who followed this advice contacted their doctors upon noticing the fern pattern, leading to further evaluation and diagnosis.
WHAT CAUSES PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS remains unknown. Research is exploring potential genetic links, similar to how some people have a genetic predisposition to diabetes.
Let’s support organizations and community members dedicated to educating and informing women about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Understanding your personal ovulation cycle is crucial, but prioritizing your health is even more important. Hormonal balance affects various bodily systems, and testing a drop of saliva daily can monitor fertility and help detect disorders like PCOS. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet and regular exercise can support better management of PCOS and overall well-being.
Having been in the fertility field for 16 years, I personally check my saliva daily. This practice has helped me better understand my ovulation cycles and maintain a healthier life. I am confident that KNOWHEN® can be a valuable tool in this process!
For more information visit www.knowhenovulationtest.com
