Premenstrual symptoms are something lots of cis-women go through roughly every month for much of their lives. Some common symptoms include cramps, bloating, increased acne, depression, irritability and tender breasts. Research is still being conducted on why women experience PMS, and some doctors even believe PMS could be hereditary. Hormones fluctuate before one’s period in order to prepare the body for a possible pregnancy, and this could also be a cause for PMS. Thanks to technological advances, there are a variety of medicines available for PMS symptoms at your local store, but there are also many natural remedies available
Dietary changes
- Eating a healthy diet rich in calcium can help ease symptoms. Yogurt, salmon, cheese, and fortified orange juice are all great sources of calcium.
- Limit sugar intake. Some women (me!) experience PMS cravings, and although it’s ok to satisfy them with not-so-healthy choices once in a while, research shows that PMS changes the body’s estrogen and progesterone levels, which increases cravings. Whole grains are a better way to feel fuller and avoid excess sugar.
- Don’t skip meals. Changing hormones can wreak havoc on your appetite, but keeping a regular meal schedule is just as important as eating healthy. Eating healthy snacks and staying on track can also aid in dealing with mood swings that could result from low blood sugar levels.
- Reduce your salt intake. This can help ease bloating.
Herbal treatments
- Research shows that chasteberry can also ease PMS symptoms. The theory is that chasteberry decreases levels of prolactin, the hormone in charge of breast milk. This can make it easier to deal with breast tenderness.
- St. John’s Wort has been found to help with symptoms of depression.
- Gingko Biloba can help with mood swings and breast tenderness.
- Dandelion leaf and anise can help with bloating.
Other remedies
- Exercise can help with PMS symptoms and menstrual cramps because it naturally boosts levels of beta-endorphins. Scientific studies indicate that aerobic exercise such as running, walking, biking, and other physical activity that increases heart rate works best. Working out causes your body to release the endorphins that can help effectively fight cramps.
- Heating pads and hot showers or baths can ease some of the pain that comes with PMS. When all else fails and lying down is what you need, you can give yourself a boost by using a heating pad and applying it to your uterus or back area. A hot shower can have the same effect. Heat can boost blood flow to your pelvic area when you need it most.
For more tips on how you can treat symptoms of PMS naturally, check out this article.
