PMS is…

The exact reason we have pre-menstral syndrome (PMS) has still not been nailed. However, there is still enough to go on that it is deeply related to the fluctuation of the hormones and their levels through the monthly cycle.

Which hormone and how much? Still not sure… As you know, we didn’t have PMS before puberty or at least before we started our menstrual cycle. Also those who go through pregnancy do not have it then, neither those who have gone through menopause. It can only be seen as a clear marker that the monthly cycle activity is important in this PMS…

Here’s a few things we can do…

1. Keep Track:

Writing a symptoms diary can help. Recognize what’s going on throughout the month by noting how you feel from day to day. You can then schedule things to coincide with specific times. For example if you tend to feel great for a few days during your cycle, that’s the time to take your driving test, or go to a job interview etc.

2. Tackle the symptoms:

Many PMS symptoms can be easily controlled using natural remedies. For acne try taking a 15mg zinc tablet each day. Fever-few is a great way to treat migraines. Women suffering from bloating can benefit from burdock root capsules.

3. Take vitamins and minerals:

Studies show that a lack of various nutrients can increase PMS symptoms. These include magnesium, calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins, iron and zinc. In one study, it was revealed that 50-80% of women with PMS were deficient in magnesium.

4. Lose excess weight:

Several scientists have discovered that the more overweight you are, the more likely you are to suffer from PMS.

5. Chill out:

Stress is also implicated in PMS. You are more likely to have worse PMS when you are stressed than when you are relaxed. Practice ways of relaxing.

6. Get Moving:

Excercise can lift you mood as it helps to boost the feel good chemicals in the brain known as Endorphins. Low levels of endorphins have also been implicated in PMS.

7. Snack Away:

According to reasearchers, your body needs 500 extra calories a day in the run up to your period as that is when your iron levels are at their lowest. On those days, have a healthly mid morning and mid afternoon snack.

8. Take essential oils:

Some studies suggest that gammalinolenic acid (GLA) helps to reduce PMS symptoms such as irritability, stomach cramps and breast pain. You can find it in evening primrose oil, starflower oil and blackcurrant oil.

9. Take herbs:

A plant called agnus cactus is popular in the treatment of PMS. Research suggests it can improve symptoms by more that 50 percent. St John’s Wort can also help, but it can reduce the effectiveness of the contaceptive pill.

10. Cut them out:

Salt, sugar, coffee and alcohol have all been linked to PMS symptoms.Salt causes bloating, alcohol can worsen your mood, caffeine can increase breast tenderness and sugar exacerbates food cravings.