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2003/11/13, 02:32 PM
Here's a little info reguarding PMS.
PMS symptoms appear to be caused by an excess of estrogen in relation to progesterone and increased levels of inflammatory series-2 prostaglandins. Symptoms may be related to the dip in calcium and magnesium levels that occur prior to menstration. So please eat food rich in Cal/Mag if this is a problem for you.
What you eat on a daily basis determines how well your body processes hormones. Through your dietary choices you can help you body eliminate excess estrogen, reduce problem causing prostaglandins while enhancing the production of benificial prostaglandins, and improve hormone balance.
Basically eat more fiber rich foods such as fruits and veggies, legumes and whole grains...these will help get rid of excess estrogen. Avoid meat and dairy foods that have been produced with hormones. Avoid pesticides and fungicides, which have estrogenic activity.
If you suffer from PMS it's best to stay away from all sources of caffeine. Even small amounts of caffein such as decaffeinated coffe or tea can trigger PMS.
Also, Vit B6 is particulartly important here because it supports the liver in its job of breaking down estrogen. It helps to metabolize and detoxify to help alleviate PMS bloating and mood swings. Soy foods are ecelent sources of plant estrogen which help to regulate estrogen levels.
So, if you're not already taking vitamins and you suffer from PMS it would be a good idea to invest in a quality multi vitamin and a B-complex. Add Omega 3 or if you prefer EFA (cold pressed) supplement. If that is not enough you might want to consider taking an herbal supplement such as cramp bark which helps relax the uterus. I would avoid commercial over the counter medications as the tend to just numb the pain but, add to your liver's to do list. So take your vitamins, if you like add a cup of soy milk a day, keep your diet clean and next month your period may not be so bad.
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