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Do you find yourself overtaken by anger at times—seemingly out of nowhere? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, poor stress tolerance, or explosive moods that feel impossible to control?

If you’re experiencing mental health challenges alongside PCOS, you are not alone. Anxiety and PCOS depression are growing. Stress, overwhelm, and a lack of support all play their roles. But there’s another factor that’s often overlooked: nutritional deficiencies that may be linked to a condition called Pyrrole Disorder.​

Not many people have heard of this condition. And while the research is still emerging, what we’re learning may offer hope for those who’ve struggled with mood issues that don’t respond well to conventional treatments.​

What Is Pyrrole Disorder?

Pyrrole Disorder, also called pyroluria or mauve factor, is a condition where the body produces elevated levels of a compound called hydroxyhemopyrrolin-2-one (HPL) in the urine.​

The problem arises when HPL binds to vitamin B6 and zinc in the body, pulling these essential nutrients out through the urine before your cells can use them. This creates a functional deficiency of B6 and zinc, even if your diet appears adequate.​​

Think of it like having a leaky bucket. No matter how much water you pour in, it keeps draining out faster than it can be used. In this case, the “water” is zinc and B6, and the “leak” is HPL.​

The Brain Chemistry Connection

Your brain must undergo specific processes to create neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin—often referred to as “happy hormones.” Like a long road trip, you can’t reach your final destination without specific stops along the way and enough fuel in the tank.​

Vitamin B6, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids are critical cofactors for neurotransmitter production. When these nutrients are depleted—as they can be in pyrrole disorder—your brain struggles to produce adequate serotonin and dopamine. The result can be profound anxiety, depression, irritability, poor stress tolerance, and in some cases, explosive anger.​

It’s not a character flaw. It’s biochemistry.​

Common Signs and Symptoms of Pyrrole Disorder

Many signs and symptoms of pyrrole disorder overlap with PCOS, including anxiety, depression, acne, glucose intolerance, cold hands or feet, abdominal discomfort, and irregular periods. Other signs that may point to elevated pyrroles include:​

Emotional and Cognitive:

• Severe inner tension or anxiety

• Explosive anger or rage, especially under stress

• Poor stress tolerance—feeling quickly overwhelmed

• Mood swings or emotional instability

• Depression or feelings of hopelessness

• Poor dream recall (a hallmark sign)

• Brain fog, forgetfulness, or difficulty concentrating

Physical:

• Pale skin that doesn’t tan easily

• White spots on fingernails

• Stretch marks (striae)

• Knee and joint pain

• Morning nausea or poor appetite in the morning

• Sensitivity to light, sound, or certain odours

• Tremors, shaking, or muscle spasms

• Acne or skin issues

• Delayed puberty, amenorrhea, or irregular periods

Behavioural:

• Social withdrawal

• Substance abuse or alcoholism (as a way to self-medicate anxiety)

• Attention deficit or hyperactivity

• In severe cases, involvement in crime or delinquency due to impulsivity and poor emotional regulation

Information adapted from Dr. Kerry Harris, integrative and functional medical doctor and GP

If several of these resonate with you, it may be worth investigating further.​

The PCOS Connection

The nutrient deficiencies caused by elevated pyrroles—particularly zinc and B6—can worsen PCOS symptoms. Zinc is essential for healthy ovulation, immune function, and androgen metabolism. B6 supports progesterone production and neurotransmitter balance. When both are depleted, PCOS symptoms like irregular cycles, acne, mood swings, and anxiety can intensify.​​

A Story of Transformation

I recall a patient sharing her son-in-law’s story. He was, as she described, the textbook definition of Jekyll and Hyde. Loving and enjoyable one moment, then explosively angry the next—uncontrollably consumed with rage. He’d been in fist fights and trouble with the law because of it, and his relationship with his father had suffered deeply.​

Although I worked with him indirectly through his mother-in-law, the changes that followed were remarkable. We started him on three simple nutrients: zinc, omega-3 fats (as flaxseed oil, since fish oil can occasionally increase aggression in pyrrole sufferers), and vitamin B6 (always best in a B complex).​​

Within weeks, his anger disappeared. His mood stabilised. His social skills improved significantly. While restoring his relationship with his father would take time and intention, this was where the healing began.​

It’s easy to judge people for their behaviours. And we all must take responsibility for our choices. But blaming someone with severe nutrient deficiencies for their emotional volatility is a bit like yelling at your car for not completing a long road trip when there’s no fuel in the tank.​

Our brains need the right nutrients to function properly. And people with pyrrole disorder require significantly more zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B6 to support healthy neurotransmitter production and emotional regulation.​​

Testing and Treatment: What You Need to Know

Testing for Pyrrole Disorder

Pyrrole testing involves a simple urine test that measures HPL levels. However, it’s important to note that the testing methodology and interpretation are still being refined, and standardisation across laboratories varies.​

That said, many integrative and functional medicine practitioners have observed significant clinical improvements in patients with elevated pyrroles when treated with targeted nutritional therapy. If you suspect pyrrole disorder, discuss testing with a trusted health professional experienced in this area.​​

Nutritional Support

The cornerstone of treatment for Pyrrole Disorder is supplementation with:​

• Zinc

• Vitamin B6 (ideally within a high-quality B complex)

• Omega-3 fatty acids (from flaxseed oil)

Some practitioners also recommend additional support nutrients such as magnesium, vitamin C, and evening primrose oil.​​

Most people begin to notice improvement within 4-6 weeks, though those with long-standing symptoms may require 6 months or more of consistent supplementation. Because pyrrole disorder is thought to be a genetic condition, some level of ongoing nutritional support is typically needed, though many people find they can take breaks once stabilised.​​

Important: Always work with a qualified health professional before starting high-dose supplementation, as excessive zinc or B6 can have side effects. Individualised dosing and monitoring are essential.​

The Intersection of Compassion and Science

If you’ve been struggling with mood issues that feel beyond your control, I want you to hear this: Your body is not broken. It may simply be asking for specific nutrients it desperately needs to function.​

While the research on pyrrole disorder is still emerging, the clinical observations are compelling. And for those who do have elevated pyrroles, targeted nutritional therapy can be life-changing.​​

Your emotions are not a reflection of your character. They are a window into your biochemistry. And when you nourish your body with what it needs, healing becomes possible.

From PCOS to perfect health, with love,

Dr. Rebecca Harwin
The PCOS Expert
Chiropractor & Bestselling Author of
Conquer Your PCOS Naturally
www.ConquerYourPCOSNaturally.com

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