Gabbi Garcia reveals battle with PCOS, says it taught her 'body positivity in the truest sense'

Gabbi Garcia revealed that she was diagnosed with Polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, in 2018.

In an Instagram post, the Kapuso It Girl talked about how working out helped her with the battle.

“I didn’t start working out to chase a certain body. I started because I wanted to feel strong, healthy, and good in my own skin,” Gabbi said.

The “Pinoy Big Brother” host said that she kept her diagnosis to herself for a while. It was only about three years ago when she started working out “to show up for my body and take care of it instead of fighting it.”

Gabbi spoke more about PCOS affects her body, sometimes through weight gain.

“Yes, mabilis din akong tumaba. Minsan mataba ako sa TV, oo nakikita ko kahit todo workout na ‘ko. Minsan naman okay ako if hindi bloated lol,” she said. “But yes, there are a lot of days when I feel bloated, days with a moon face, the ‘PCOS belly,’ and everything else that comes with it.”

She said she is not conforming to society’s views, and only cares that she is strong and healthy.

“Being ‘sexy’ the way society defines it is honestly the least of my priorities.”

The actress added that her PCOS journey taught her about body positivity “in the truest sense.”

“To be kinder to my body, to listen to it, and to appreciate everything it allows me to do,” Gabbi said. “Not perfect. Just better. Still learning. Still showing up.” 

She told PCOS warriors: “You’re not alone.”

According to Mayo Clinic, PCOS is “a problem with hormones that happens during the reproductive years."

“With PCOS, many small sacs of fluid develop along the outer edge of the ovary. These are called cysts. The small fluid-filled cysts contain immature eggs. These are called follicles. The follicles fail to regularly release eggs.”

Those with PCOS may experience irregular periods, polycystic ovaries, and high levels of the hormone androgen.

Gabbi is reprising her role as Alena for "Encantadia Chronicles: Sang'gre." 

She is also part of the international film “Prisoner of War.”

 

 

 

 

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—Nika Roque/JCB, GMA Integrated News