Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a complex symptom that affects a large number of women of childbearing age. PMS can begin several days to a week before menstruation, but for some women it may begin 2 weeks prior to each period. The most common symptoms are depression, anxiety, irritability, clumsiness, cravings for sweet or salty foods, headaches, weight gain, fluid retention, breast pain and swelling, abdominal bloating and flare ups of acne.

There has been considerable research done on PMS. Some evidence suggests hormonal imbalances are a probable cause, with excess estrogen and/or a deficiency of progesterone. (Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovaries that opposes the effects of estrogen). See Progesterone page for more information. Other research suggests deficiencies of serotonin or dopamine which a chemical messengers of the brain, maybe involved.

Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations

Some women may benefit from avoiding refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and excessive salt intake. Some may find avoidance of dairy beneficial, as they may be sensitive to estrogenic chemicals from the environment that can concentrate in milk, or perhaps they are intolerant or allergic to dairy.

Aerobic exercise can also be valuable in the alleviation of PMS

Nutritional supplements

Vitamin B6 may increase the levels of serotonin, dopamine and progesterone, which have found to be low in women with PMS. Most women respond to 50 to 100mg per day.

Magnesium deficiency symptoms such as apathy, personality changes, muscle spasm, anxiety, and depression are reported with women with PMS. 200 to 600 mg per day.

Essential Fatty acids. Women with PMS have been shown to have abnormalities in EFA metabolism. Supplementation with gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) found in evening primrose oil is sometime helpful.

Hormone Therapy

Thyroid Function Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are similar to those of PMS. So ruling out an under active thyroid gland maybe beneficial

Progesterone. Treatment with bio-identical progesterone has been shown to be beneficial to some women in alleviating symptoms of PMS.

Ref: The patients book of Natural Healing. Jonathan V. Wright, MD. Alan R. Gaby, MD

Low Stress diet
Regular exercise
Nordic Naturals Omega 3 6 9