Living With PMS
About 75% of women experience premenstrual syndrome (PMS) during menstruation. PMS symptoms range from lower back pain to mood swings. Symptoms are manageable for most women but can disrupt daily life for a select few. Changes in diet can help alleviate some symptoms. Homeopathic supplements such as chaste berry extract can correct hormonal imbalances and reduce discomfort.
3 supplements for PMS
Supplements are a great way to bridge nutritional gaps and provide an extra boost when needed. Multivitamins with calcium, magnesium, and B6 can help curb PMS symptoms. Three common homeopathic methods of treating PMS are through chaste berry extract, licorice, and peony.
1) Chaste berry extract
Chaste berry extract is a natural method of correcting hormonal imbalances. Almost every symptom of PMS can be alleviated with chaste berry extract.
2) Licorice
Licorice can help rebalance menstrual cycle irregularities. Licorice also contains phytoestrogens which mimic estrogen function within the body.
3) Peony
Peony is a flower used in Chinese medicine to treat hormones. Specifically, the supplement is used to treat androgen and estrogen imbalances.
Premenstrual syndrome symptoms
Symptoms generally occur in predictable patterns for women, but the emotional swings can vary from barely noticeable to intense. Physical symptoms include body aches, fatigue, fluid retention, acne flareups, tender breasts, and constipation. Emotional symptoms include depression, irritability, insomnia, poor concentration, decreased libido, and anxiety. Symptoms typically last 3-4 days.
Some women are lucky and experience no symptoms. Other women find little problems in operating with the discomfort. A select group of women experiences such high levels of physical pain and discomfort that daily life is interrupted. Disabling symptoms are known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Treatment for menstrual symptoms
Discomfort with premenstrual symptoms can be alleviated through medications and lifestyle changes. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help with depressive symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and diuretics can reduce water retention and cramping. Contraceptives such as oral birth control alter ovulation and provide PMS symptom relief.
Lifestyle changes can help manage and improve PMS symptoms. Eating smaller meals throughout the day can reduce bloating. Skipping meals will only increase irritability. Avoiding salty foods will help with fluid retention. Calcium-rich foods can help reduce occurrences of PMS. Eating a well-balanced diet all month long is better than changing dietary habits during menstruation. Cravings such as sugar may arise due to hormonal changes. Indulging somewhat is fine but don’t overload on sugar. Alcohol can increase depressive symptoms.
Alleviating PMS
PMS does not have to take over daily life. Symptoms can be managed through medication and diet. Supplements such as chaste berry extract, licorice, and peony are homeopathic methods that can help curb PMS symptoms. Patients should speak with a healthcare provider or pharmacist for PMS treatment options.
RECENT
ARTICLES
Our Patients Say
We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service to our community. Here are a few things that the community is saying about us.
Convenient and quality service. Ive never had my prescriptions filled quicker and the pharmacist took the time to tell me about what I was taking.
Excellent experience! Friendly, knowledgeable staff!
I have been a customer since they opened. Julie and Hiten have both treated me with the utmost respect and have always been ready to take care if my needs with a smile