on Jan 22nd, 2010Q&A – Can my diet help reduce the symptoms of PMS?
Ali asked: I suffer badly with PMS. Are there any alterations I can make to my diet to help reduce the symptoms?
Answer…
PMS can be relieved very effectively by making some small changes to the diet. PMS is usually due to an imbalance in hormone production.
Consumption of refined sugar (in the form of confectionery, biscuits, cordials and sugary drinks, cereals, cereal bars, processed foods and chocolate) can significantly unbalance your hormones so cutting these foods out of your diet as much as possible (with the odd treat at weekends) has shown in clinical practice to greatly improve the symptoms of PMS. Try it for one month.
Also Magnesium and Vitamin B6 tend to work together to help relieve PMS. Magnesium is natures tranquiliser and can help alleviate the cramping associated with PMS. Supplement with 300mg-500mg Magnesium per day. Dark green leafy vegetables and brazil nuts are rich in magnesium.
The pains associated with PMS are a result of inflammation so you could also take a fish oil (omega 3) supplement which encourages the production of anti-inflammatory compounds in the body or you could use one tablespoon of cold pressed flaxseed oil every day over salads, in mash/soups etc. Make sure you drink two litres of water every day to help alleviate any bloating from water retention as a result of PMS.
Gwen Warren is a Nutritional Consultant and member of the British Association of Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy. Gwen is also a corporate Health Promotion Consultant for Bupa and experienced lecturer.
Ask Gwen about: Nutrition, Nutritional Therapy, Sports Nutrition, Healthy Eating, Digestive Problems, Menopausal Symptoms & PMS, Chronic Fatigue.
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Excellent answer Gwenn and of course B6 also helps stabilise & lift mood as it’s nature’s anti-depressent.
Thanks Gwen, great advice… I will be emailing this link to my girlfriend.