The way women are effected at the lead up to their period is as individual as themselves, but there are many common symptoms. One thing is sure, the imbalance in hormones can certainly stir things up. Everything seems to become far more intense.
Some of the most common symptoms are anxiety, mood swings and nervous tension. This is caused by an imbalance of Oestrogen and Progesterone. The first thing to look at with this type of PMS is how much dairy products and refined sugars are in your diet, make sure they are not in excess as they can effect the absorption of Magnesium. Magnesium, Vitamin B6 and Zinc are the vital nutrients here; they are essential in the brain to produce the chemicals, which control these symptoms. These nutrients also assist in the clearance of the excess oestrogen. A diet high in vegetable proteins and fibre also assist this process.
Cravings are common at this time, especially for chocolate and other sweet things. Increase appetite, headaches, fatigue, dizziness or fainting and palpitations may also be experienced. It is best when suffering from this to eat small meals regularly to help prevent the falling glucose levels. 5-6 small meals a day of healthy nutritious food, incorporating complex carbohydrates, will be of great assistance. A supplementation of Chromium can help in stabilizing blood sugar levels. The food that you are craving can also give an indication of what foods are missing in your diet. The most common craving, chocolate, is an indication of a Magnesium deficiency.
The symptoms of depression, crying, forgetfulness, confusion and insomnia are what some women go through. A diet including plenty of raw foods and grains is recommended in this case. It is related to low oestrogen: high progesterone balance and a clean healthy diet, high in Magnesium can help towards regulation. It would also be advised to work on cleansing the liver. If the liver is functioning well, then it will assist in clearing out the excess hormones.
If you suffer from fluid retention, weight gain, swelling of extremities, breast tenderness, or abdominal bloating, salt and red meat should be decreased. An herb, which can offer some relief from this, is Ginkgo. Also of benefit are Vitamin B6 and Vitamin E.
Evening Primrose Oil can reduce the cramping pain that announces to many women that their period is approaching. Calcium/Magnesium supplements can also bring relief.
Many of the symptoms of PMS are related to dietary imbalances and nutritional deficiencies. For a list of dietary guidelines and natural remedies for PMS go here for the full article.
Most importantly take time out each month to celebrate your womanhood. The onset of a period is a reminder of who you are and is a special time to pamper yourself: Buy yourself flowers, have a special treat, have a massage, take a bubble bath, or whatever makes you feel special. It’s the time to make time for you! .
We thank Naturopath and homeopath Andrea Putting from the website https://andreaputting.com.au/ for this article
