Premenstrual Syndrome - Women Health Information Page

Menstruating women may experience a variety of emotional and physical changes prior to menstruation. The medical term for these changes is "premenstrual syndrome," commonly called PMS. More than 150 symptoms have been associated with PMS, ranging from breast tenderness to nausea to anger and irritability.

PMS was first described as a medical condition in 1931, though descriptions of the emotional and physical signs that come and go with a woman�s menstrual cycle can be traced as far back as Hippocrates� writings from the 5th century B.C.E.

Premenstrual moods and physical changes occur in nearly 80% of menstruating women. The symptoms vary from woman to woman and from cycle to cycle. Their intensity ranges from mild to moderate to incapaciting. Researchers estimate that about 20% to 40% of women who have PMS experience symptoms that make life difficult; another 2.5% to 5% report that their PMS is debilitating.

It is not clear what causes premenstrual syndrome. A combination of physiological, genetic, nutritional, and behavioral factors are likely involved. There is no diagnostic test for PMS. Tests may rule out other conditions in women who experience severe symptoms, though emotional and physical changes that are in sync with a woman�s menstrual cycle are usually a telltale sign.

The most important sign for a physician to use to distinguish PMS from other disease entities is cyclic nature of symptoms. There should be a symptom free time period one week after menstruation ends. At least 25% of patients will not have a symptom free time period; therefore, these patients should be evaluated for other medical or psychiatric conditions.

PMS can be treated in a variety of ways, though the initial and usually most effective treatment involves nonmedical changes in diet and lifestyle.

PMS!

Once a month I get PMS-y. I can deal with the bloating and cramps, (usually), but, honestly, I go crazy, loony, wacky. My emotions are completely out of control, from extremely happy to totally miserable and crying, with lots of grumpy behavior in between. I actually don't usually realize when I'm behaving irrationally, so when my boyfriend tries to point out that maybe my bouts of anger and tears are caused by hormones I attack him for telling me I'm just an irrational woman. Basically, is there any way to help these mood swings? I'm on birth control pills, which is supposed to help, but it doesn't really seem to do anything.

Premenstrual syndrome is the development of a wide range of symptoms for several days before, and sometimes during, the first day of most, or all, of your periods. Researchers disagree on a definition of PMS, and all efforts to find a biological basis for it so far have failed. These treatments may work for some women: antidepressants, birth control pills, some vitamins or minerals, and evening primrose oil. Hormone suppressants have not had clinical trials as a remedy for PMS -- although it is known that they can have severe side effects when taken in large doses over long periods of time.

Some women have found that home remedies, or rather preventatives, have been helpful in alleviating some of the symptoms of PMS. Reduce your salt, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol intake at least one week before your period is expected. Or, if that seems like too much to ask, try reducing one item at a time in your diet and see if there's any difference. Exercise helps premenstrually, as well as for cramps during your period. Although it seems as if that's the last thing you'd want to do, it can help. Also, vitamin B-6, or pyridoxine, may help. Good food sources include whole grains, green vegetables, molasses, nuts and seeds, poultry, potatoes, and fish. If you want to try a B-6 supplement, 25 - 50 mg a day may help. Avoid higher dosages because of toxicity -- discontinue use immediately if you get tingling sensations. Taking 400 mg/day of vitamin E along with vitamin B-6 may offer benefits as well.

Check out these books: Self-Help for Premenstrual Syndrome, by Michelle Harrison and PMS Self-Help Book: A Woman's Guide to Feeling Good All Month, by Susan M. Lark.

PMDD

PMS has become a household word and the brunt of many jokes. According to a recent survey, many women remain unaware of its more severe form, premenstrual dysphoric disorder or PMDD. Among 500 women recently surveyed, 8 out of 10 did not know that severe premenstrual problems have been officially classified as PMDD, nor did they know that such problems can be diagnosed and treated. Even more disturbing is that the one in 4 respondents who described their premenstrual symptoms as strong or severe were among those unaware of PMDD.

�We�ve got to educate women that they do not have to tolerate debilitating premenstrual symptoms,� said Phyllis Greenberger, MSW, Executive Director of the Society for Women�s Health Research, which commissioned the Yankelovich Partners survey (sponsored by a grant from Eli Lilly, manufacturers of Prozac). �Women have a right to know if what they are experiencing month to month is actually PMDD, and how to get help.�

PMDD stands for Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. It is the acronym for the more severe form of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). Like PMS, PMDD occurs the week before the onset of menstruation and disappears a few days after. PMDD is characterized by severe monthly mood swings and physical symptoms that interfere with everyday life, especially a woman�s relationships with her family and friends. PMDD symptoms go far beyond what are considered manageable or normal premenstrual symptoms.

PMDD is a combination of symptoms that may include irritability, depressed mood, anxiety, sleep disturbance, difficulty concentrating, angry outbursts, breast tenderness and bloating. The diagnostic criteria emphasize symptoms of depressed mood, anxiety, mood swings or irritability. The condition affects up to one in 20 American women who have regular menstrual periods.

The physical symptom list is identical for PMS and PMDD; while the emotional symptoms are similar, they are significantly more serious with PMDD. In PMDD, the criteria focus on the mood rather than the physical symptoms. With PMS, sadness or mild depression is not uncommon. With PMDD, however, significant depression and hopelessness may occur; in extreme cases, women may feel like killing themselves or others. Attributing suicidal or homicidal feelings to �it�s just PMS� is inappropriate; these feelings must be taken as seriously as they are in anyone else and should be promptly brought to the attention of mental health professionals.

Women who have a history of depression are at increased risk for PMDD. Similarly, women who have had PMDD are at increased risk for depression after menopause. In simplest terms, the difference between PMS and PMDD can be likened to the difference between a mild headache and a migraine.

While nearly all of the women in the survey reported experiencing premenstrual symptoms in the last 12 months, nearly half (45 percent) have never discussed PMS with their doctors. Even among women with strong or severe symptoms, more than one out of four (27 percent) had never talked with their doctors about PMS, despite the fact that most in this group reported that the symptoms interfere with their daily activities.

When asked about their reluctance to seek medical treatment even if they thought they had PMDD, nine of every 10 respondents who would not seek treatment said that they could cope with their problems on their own, and about one of every four felt their doctors would not take their complaints seriously if they did bring it up.

PMDD has recently been listed as an official psychiatric diagnosis. The fear of this stigma may contribute to women�s reluctance to discuss it with their doctors. �I frequently work with patients who have waited years to ask a doctor about premenstrual problems or have been turned away by their health care provider when they tried to discuss symptoms,� said Jean Endicott, Ph.D., Director of the Premenstrual Evaluation Unit at Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center. �They fear becoming the target of jokes or that seeking help is a sign of weakness. Informing women and providers about diagnosing and treating PMDD helps clear the way to effective medical care.�

Survey respondents reporting strong or severe symptoms revealed the classic PMDD features of impaired social functioning and predominant mood symptoms. Two out of three women (67 percent) with moderate, strong or severe symptoms reported interference with their daily activities. One third of these women said they find their mood changes, not their physical symptoms, to be most bothersome.

The survey also found that women with strong or severe premenstrual symptoms were five times as likely as those with moderate symptoms (26 percent vs. 5 percent) to experience these symptoms every month. A key part of the PMDD diagnosis is determining whether symptoms have occurred during most cycles of the past year and are clearly documented for at least two consecutive menstrual cycles.

When asked what they would do if they thought they had PMDD, two out of three women (66 percent) in the survey said they would most likely get information from their obstetrician or gynecologist, as opposed to consulting friends or using Internet resources. This is encouraging, according to Dr. Endicott, because the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) issued treatment guidelines for premenstrual symptoms earlier this year. It recommended the newer form of anti-depressant medications called �SSRIs� (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) as the preferred method for treating symptoms associated with PMDD.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Although nothing seems to cure PMS, there are some foods that seem to aggravate the symptoms, while others tend to alleviate them. Sticking to a low-salt regimen while increasing intake of fluids and potassium-rich foods is often effective in preventing bloating [Link to Hypertension/High Blood Pressure]. You may also experience relief by restricting your alcohol and caffeine consumption, since alcohol is a depressant and diuretic that can worsen PMS headaches and fatigue and can accentuate depression. Caffeine, on the other hand, is a stimulant, and can contribute to anxiety, irritability and painful breast tenderness.

Several studies have shown that a diet rich in calcium and vitamin B6 during PMS may also help reduce water retention and alleviate bad moods. The highest sources of calcium are milk and milk products like yogurt, ice cream and cheese. But make sure you choose low-fat options. Also, you can get calcium from vegetables such as broccoli, dark greens (like turnip greens), green or red cabbage (raw), cooked collards, fish, soy products and tofu. Foods rich in vitamin B6 include bananas; baked potatoes; legumes such as soybeans and lentils; meats, especially chicken, but also beef or pork; grains and cereals with bran; and fish, especially salmon.

Some research has suggested that taking vitamin or mineral supplements may also be helpful in alleviating bloating and depression. Among the most promising of these are calcium (1,000 mg. daily), magnesium (22 mg. taken during the last half of your cycle), vitamin B6 (50 to 200 mg. daily), and vitamin E (150 to 400 I.U. daily). These recommendations may not work for all women, but the cost and risk of vitamin and mineral supplements (in recommended amounts) are low enough to justify giving them a try.

Many women have food cravings during PMS, and the cravings usually focus on sweets and snacks such as ice cream, chocolate and potato chips. Eating complex carbohydrates is probably the best way to ward off those food cravings. These foods are a good source of fiber, which helps to clear excess estrogen from your body. High levels of estrogen have been shown to contribute to PMS. Also, research has found that high-carbohydrate foods actually relieve the psychological symptoms of tension, anxiety and mood swings that accompany PMS.

Good sources of complex carbohydrates include breads, pastas, macaroni, potatoes, rice, corn and legumes such as peas, chickpeas and lentils. But remember, it takes at least two hours for the carbohydrate high to "kick in;" plan your eating and snacking accordingly, so you're not left with a case of the blahs.

How to deal naturally with menstrual pains and PMS

It is believed that approximately 75 per cent of all menstruating women suffer from premenstrual syndrome. Symptoms include the blues, headaches, period pain, irritability, oily skin, bloating, food cravings and tenderness of the breasts. Many are tempted to believe that it is normal to feel pain during their period and so try to endure it the best they can. However, nutritionists and alternative therapists believe that pain is never normal and can be alleviated. One of the contributing factors to PMS and period pain is nutrient deficiency.

The food we eat may not contain all the nutrients our bodies need to work efficiently. Identifying deficient areas in our diet and finding a suitable replacement, is the first step in relieving the painful symptoms brought on by your menstruation. A proper balanced diet helps improve symptoms by normalizing hormone function and improving brain chemistry.

bodyOffer(27195) Eating regularly is essential to beat irritability and fatigue. This will also ensure that your body has a constant supply of nutrients. Limit your coffee and tea intake to a minimum of three cups per day, as both aggravate PMS. Herbal teas, fruit or vegetable juices and water are a wiser chose. Alcohol consumption should be reduced to three glasses of wine (or equivalent) per week. Sweets, cakes and biscuits should be taken at a minimum or stopped completely. Eating brown rice, brown bread, oats, nuts, sunflower seeds, beans and at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, while consuming oily fish at least three times a week; will help increase your bodies fatty acids, magnesium, iron, zinc and vitamin E and B.

The benefits of your healthy diet can be improved, by taking daily supplements of multivitamins and minerals. As well as taking extra doses of magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc and vitamin E and B, for a few months (doses should be take ONLY as directed by a pharmacist).

A proper diet plays a big part in relieving pain but other factors in your lifestyle such as stress levels and how you handle it; the amount of physical exercise; your general health and energy levels all have a profound effect on the body's hormonal system.

Massage has proven to have strong effects on relieving stress that leads to tension, pain and hormone imbalance. A deep massage using aromatherapy oils has been proven a very beneficial treatment to monthly symptoms. Usually no improvement is noticed for several months, especially in severe cases but pain will eventually decrease.

Herbal medicine can also be considered a natural treatment to menstrual pains. Some herbs have been found to contain hormone-like properties, which will help normalize the body�s hormonal levels. Thus, relieving bloating, pain and calming nerve tension and irritability. They will also improve your general health.

Another natural therapy women with long term hormonal problems are trying; is acupuncture.

bodyOffer2() Regular exercise has been shown to help prevent monthly problems. Physical exercises should be carried out at least three times a week to help improve your health, hormone levels, mood and increase your energy levels. It will also help to increase your pain tolerance level and a hormone in the brain; beta-endorphin, which increases your sense of wellbeing, is also increased.

Finally, relaxation is another important component in decreasing stress and tension, which prevents the mind and body from functioning properly. The most relaxing and convenient way to relieve aching muscles, a sore back and stomach cramps; is to take a warm bath. A few drops of camomile or clary essential oils will enhance the effects on easing PMS tension and menstrual pain. Geranium or rosemary essential oils help with fluid retention; while bergamot and rose oils help lift depression and irritability. Essential oils will help relax both emotional and muscular tension, cramps and pains and can help to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Title: How to deal naturally with menstrual pains and PMS
Description: Eating well and exercising can minimize PMS and menstrual pains. Massage, herbal medicine and acupuncture have also been proven to help painful periods.

Dealing With PMS

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) refers to uncomfortable physical and mental symptoms that occur before the onset of the woman�s menstrual period. Estimates of affected women range from 40 to 80%. About 5% of women experience symptoms that cause them severe impairment. PMS may start at any time during the years that a woman menstruates. The peak occurrence is in the 20s and 30s. Once PMS begins, the symptoms often continue until menopause.

About 150 separate symptoms have been documented, but it is unlikely that any one woman will have all of them. The symptoms can be divided into three general categories.

Lifestyle Changes: Many women find that healthy lifestyle changes decrease symptoms of PMS. Exercise, three to five days per week, improves mood, and increases physical tone. Women who exercise regularly have fewer PMS symptoms. Eating less salt may minimize bloating and swelling. Also helpful is a healthy diet, rich in complex carbohydrates and low in simple sugar. Decreasing caffeine and alcohol intake may help irritability and mood swings. Relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, decrease physical discomfort and stress.

Self Knowledge: A woman with mild PMS, are able to accept and adjust to her monthly changes in energy and mood. Although parts of the experience are unpleasant, she discovers that it helps her to view things from a different perspective. If she is impulsive or irritable before her menses, she may decide to defer important decisions for a few days. If she feels angry at a friend, she may write down the anger. If, after a few days, it still bothers her, she then responds to the anger. Some women learn this on their own. Others may seek counseling to help reduce stress and to learn ways to actively cope with the PMS.

Social Support: A supportive spouse or roommate can be a great help during low energy days or periods of irritability. Some women can take turns helping each other during vulnerable times. However, women who live or work closely together often go into synch: they have their menses at the same time. Depending on the situation, this can either be a support or a difficult time for the entire group.

Vitamins and Minerals: There is some evidence that Calcium may decrease many PMS symptoms. Moderate doses of Magnesium and Vitamin E may also be helpful. Controlled trials have failed to show nay benefit from high dose Vitamin B6. Additionally, high doses of B6 can cause peripheral nerve damage.

Treating Physical Symptoms: If lifestyle and dietary changes are not effective, there are other treatments. Diuretics help reduce fluid buildup and decrease bloating. Some women find that oral contraceptives decrease symptoms of PMS. This varies, depending on the dosage and mix of hormones in the particular pill. Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs such as Ibuprofen, are helpful for PMS-associated pain.

Mood Changes: Marked mood changes are called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. (PMDD) The symptoms of PMDD resemble major depression. A woman with PMDD has her mood swings only in the one to two weeks before her menses. When we suspect PMDD, we often ask the woman to chart her moods for three months. This helps determine whether the mood shifts are confined to the premenstrual days. If depression or other mood shifts also occur in other phases of the cycle, we treat it as any depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder, using psychotherapy or medication. If charting reveals that depression occurs only before menses, we can choose to treat with medication all month or we may decide to use medication only during the days before menses. The woman should be an active participant in making this decision. Full-cycle treatment is easier to remember. It does not require the same degree of charting and calendar watching. However, if the woman experiences medication side effects, or simply wants to minimize her medication use, she can take an antidepressant during the 10-14 days before her menses. The SSRIs (Prozac, Paxil, Zoloft and others) are the first-line antidepressants for premenstrual depression or irritability. They seem to work more rapidly for PMS mood symptoms than for regular major depression. If a woman has significant manic symptoms before her menses, she may need to take a mood stabilizer such as Lithium or Depakote during her entire cycle.

Some women find that when the most severe symptoms, mood, or physical symptoms, are addressed; the other symptoms are less intense. Thus, a woman who is successfully treated for premenstrual depression may experience fewer physical symptoms. Other women need active treatment for both kinds of symptoms.

Premenstrual-type symptoms may temporarily become worse in the perimenopausal period (the years just before menstruation ceases.) However, true menopause often brings the end of premenstrual symptoms.

Many women in their forties who are suffering menstrual irregularity, depression, irritability, or weight gain automatically assume that they have reached menopause.... when in reality, they may be suffering from PMS. It is important for women to realize the difference between PMS and menopause because the two conditions require opposing treatments.

What is PMS?

Most researchers agree that PMS is a "biopsychosocial" phenomenon with a complex etiology. Certain physical and psychological symptoms recur regularly at the same phase of each menstrual cycle. Symptoms cease at menses (bleeding).

PMS symptoms begin after ovulation, often intensifying as menstruation approaches. Symptoms cease with the onset of menstruation, or bleeding. Every woman with PMS suffers a different set of symptoms. Symptoms and their intensity vary from woman to woman, and from month to month, making each PMS sufferer unique.

Symptoms are both physical and emotional. Listed below are the major, but by no means all, of the symptoms most often reported.

	Physical	Emotional
	Dizziness	Anxiety
	Breast tenderness	Depression
	Clumsiness	Fatigue
	Constipation	Irritability
	Headaches	Loss of concentration
	Increased appetite	Loss of motivation
	Muscle/Joint pain	Memory loss
	Weight gain	Nervous tension

Mineral Deficiency

Dr. Linus Pauling, winner of two Nobel prizes, states, �You can trace every sickness, every disease, and every ailment to a mineral deficiency.�

Following disintegration of foods in the gut, contents are evacuated into the small intestine in the form of luminal fluid. All minerals, vitamins, and trace elements are absorbed in the small intestine. Any mineral has to be soluble (dissolved) in the luminal fluid of the small intestine in order to be absorbed.

The pH of the small intestinal fluid is in the range of 7.0 to 7.2. At this pH level, inorganic minerals form insoluble (non-dissolved) hydroxides, a gelatinous magma type of precipitation, which makes the minerals non-absorbable.

There is no known scientific test to determine the exact percentage of minerals absorbed by the human body. However, scientists are in agreement that bioavailability of inorganic minerals may be as low as 20% and but does not to exceed 30%.

Supplement manufacturers increase the dosage of inorganic minerals hoping to offset this process and increase the mineral percentage uptake. However, the increase in inorganic mineral content only leads to an increase of gelatinous magma, which lines the mucous membrane of the small intestine. This lining blocks absorption of all minerals and vitamins, causing gastrointestinal (GI) distress such as diarrhea and constipation.

Inorganic Minerals vs. Chelated Minerals

Inorganic minerals are found in nature, they are obtained from the earth after purification. Chelated minerals are inorganic minerals engineered to be soluble, enabling the body to absorb them more efficiently.

It is in the duodenum where all minerals, vitamins and trace elements are absorbed. Located in the small intestine the duodenum is lined with amino acid receptor sites called �villi.� These receptors are widely distributed across the duodenum mucosal walls. They have tremendous ability to absorb amino acids. When bonded to amino acids minerals are efficiently and rapidly taken up by the duodenum.

Inorganic minerals come into contact with vitamin molecules causing degradation and oxidation, leading to a decrease in vitamin absorption. Chelated minerals are bonded to amino acids, which shields them from vitamins.

Mineral deficiency can only be prevented by ingestion of chelated minerals. Chelated minerals are absorbed and do not cause GI tract disturbances.

PMS and Weight Gain

The brain normally consumes 20% of the body's total energy, but under stress the brain demands ever more energy. The brain utilizes glucose as the sole source of energy. Insulin is needed to break down sugar and turn it into glucose.

Following ovulation, women reporting PMS symptoms have consistently been found to have significantly less red cell magnesium in their blood. Without necessary magnesium levels, insulin cannot be produced, and without insulin glucose conversion is not possible.

Failing to receive glucose, the brain detects a lack of sugar, and will release signals that trigger the "sweet tooth." This sets off cravings for candy, chocolate, pastries, or anything that is sweet and sticky. Many women report being "obsessed" with a desire for chocolate, which is rich in magnesium.

When the brain-under-stress releases signals that trigger the cravings for sweets, few people have the will-power to resist this biological call. Strong cravings result in women eating sugar-laden foods compulsively, or so called "binge eating."

Refined sugar is absorbed into the blood stream faster than any other food and increases the ability of insulin by a factor of 3 to 11 times. This sudden rise in blood sugar levels triggers insulin release far in excess of what is needed. This causes a rapid and precipitous drop in blood sugar levels, the so called "sugar-crash."

Coupled with the sudden drop in blood sugar levels, refined sugar also increases the urinary excretion of the body's magnesium, adding to the magnesium deficiency, exacerbating the problem. This causes the brain to once again signal for more sugar, thus setting in motion a self-perpetuating cycle.

Sudden increased sugar intake triggers hypoglycemia which results in palpitation and fainting. Rapid drops in blood sugar levels cause headaches and fatigue. These alternating symptoms lead women to feel "out of control." Researchers have termed this up-and-down sensation the "roller-coaster effect."

During this period of increased sugar intake weight gains of 5 to 15 pounds is common, weight which is difficult for any woman to lose during the symptom free period of her cycle. Binge eating and subsequent weight gain is not a matter of self-control. It's PMS.

Long-term weight reduction and control is much more likely to be effected by the management of PMS then dieting.

Increasing magnesium intake by a minimum of 300 to 400 mg. daily is the only way to break the negative self-perpetuating cycle that causes the "sweet-tooth" and leads to weight gain.

Magnesium deficiency has also been implicated as the primary cause of dysmenorrhea, or cramps, which usually start a day or two prior to or at the beginning of menstruation.

Effect Estrogen Plays In PMS

Vitamin B6 reduces blood estrogen and increases progesterone. Therefore, B6 deficiency will cause decreased liver metabolism of estrogen, causing an excess of estrogen, this results in "estrogen dominance."

Estrogen imbalance effects mood swings by increasing the activity of the biogenic amines, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which affect moods. Epinephrine triggers anxiety. Norepinephrine causes hostility and irritability. Serotonin at high levels creates nervous tension, and inability to concentrate.

Dopamine, produced by the brain, balances out the effects of the biogenic amines by inducing relaxation, increases mental alertness, and works to prevent sodium and water retention.

Without sufficient dopamine, the biogenic amines are not held in check, moods are greatly affected in a negative manner, and sodium and water retention increase.

Estrogen also increases the level of the adrenal hormone aldosterone, which prevents the normal excretion of salt from the kidneys, adding to fluid retention. This creates edema-like symptoms of bloating, abdominal swelling, and swollen breasts.

Excess fluid swells the nerve tissue and membranes surrounding the brain. The brain is encased within the skull, and can only expand as far as the skull permits. This leads to torturous migraine headaches that are often described as "vise-like."

Magnesium deficiency causes a very specific depletion of brain dopamine and B6 plays a synergistic role in mineral utilization across cell membranes, increasing the effectiveness of magnesium.

American women are so deficient in vitamin B6 that it was discovered back in the early 1940's. The process of refining flour eliminates the B vitamins altogether, B6 is destroyed in cooking and canning, and when foods are packaged. Pregnancy and birth-control pills also cause a B6 deficiency.

To prevent "estrogen dominance" and its negative influence on moods and fluid retention, increased intake of B vitamins and magnesium is absolutely essential.

Total Vitamin Needs

Vitamin C intake is essential because the human body cannot manufacture it. Vitamin C prevents disease by neutralizing free radical molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging. Vitamin C is used more rapidly under stress and city dwellers need much more as carbon monoxide destroys vitamin C. Everyone needs to take vitamin C.

Vitamin E is very helpful to women. It provides relief from hot flashes, cramps, and menstrual pain. It has a primary function as an antioxidant, protecting cell membranes, active enzyme sites and DNA. The American diet has lost many of its natural sources of vitamin E, and estrogen depletes vitamin E, increasing the body's demand for it. Supplementation of vitamin E is absolutely necessary to prevent PMS symptoms.

Vitamin A is necessary for the body to ward off environmental pollutants, and seems to prevent the development of breast and cervical cancer. Vitamin A is reduced with illness, during times of stress, if we smoke, or if we are pregnant or nursing. For vitamin A's antioxidant properties to work, intake must be at least 5,000 units a day or greater.

Vitamin D is necessary for calcium and magnesium to be absorbed. Vitamin D is absorbed through the skin by sunlight. Women spending time indoors, in an office, factory, or inside a vehicle, often do not have adequate supplies of vitamin D.

Vital Importance of Minerals

Zinc is involved in more body functions than any other mineral. Zinc affects menstrual irregularity and female sexual organs. Without zinc the carbon dioxide exchange could not occur at a rate fast enough to keep humans alive. Zinc levels are low in women with PMS and there is a high correlation between zinc deficiency and depressive moods in women.

Potassium maintains the body's water balance in conjunction with sodium. More potassium to sodium, at a ratio of 2 to 1, is necessary for proper fluid retention. Potassium is now deficient in our diets while sodium (salt) intake has soared. Natural potassium/sodium ratios in American women have been out of balance for many years, causing fluid retention and its many unwanted symptoms.

Chromium is intimately involved in blood-glucose regulation. It is useful for women who experience food cravings, typically for chocolate and certain carbohydrates, such as pizza. America has the highest rate of chromium deficiency in the world.

Iron is essential to all menstruating women. About 30-40 mg. of iron will be lost during an average female menstrual cycle. Even a slight iron deficiency can result in fatigue and lethargy.

Selenium alleviates hot flashes, helps vitamin E work better, and is important in reducing the risk of breast cancer.

Manganese deficiency causes decreased ability to remove excess sugar from the blood. It also improves memory and dizziness is a sure sign of manganese deficiency.

Iodine is necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid. Without adequate thyroid activity women will suffer excessive fatigue, excess weight, and constipation.

Natural Progesterone & PMS

Natural progesterone counter-acts estrogen dominance, works as an anti-cancer agent, and helps the woman�s body achieve normal hormone balance. Women taking natural progesterone experience less female discomfort, increased vitality, emotional balance, reduced sleep disturbance, and progesterone is cited as the missing ingredient in a woman�s flagging libido.

Many companies claim their progesterone cream contains �real progesterone.� Checking the ingredient list reveals they are actually using Wild Mexican Yam, or Mexican Wild Yam Root Extract. These are all code words for the same product, Diosgenin. The human body does not produce the enzymes necessary to convert Diosgenin, the active component of Wild Mexican Yam, into progesterone. Only USP progesterone powder is bio-identical in every way to progesterone produced by the corpus luteum. Only USP natural progesterone will produce saliva and serum levels of progesterone.

Diagnosis of PMS

The diagnosis of PMS depends on the timing of symptoms in each menstrual cycle, and not on the symptoms themselves. It is the timing of these symptoms that is most important in determining whether you have PMS. The symptoms will occur on a regular basis and cease after menses.

The only positive method of diagnosis available today, and it is the best, is the simple and inexpensive method of recording the dates of menstruation and of the symptoms on a menstrual chart for a 3-month period. To date, there is no other medical test that gives a diagnostic report. However, most women know intuitively when PMS strikes. To diagnosis your own PMS download or print our PMS chart through the following link and follow the instructions.

The Most Prevalent Causes of PMS

The primary cause of PMS in most women is brought on by a combination of diet, stress, and mineral and vitamin deficiency.

Increased use of chemicals, fertilizers, and pesticides, has robbed the soil of minerals and vitamins. Modern food processing further refines and mills out necessary vitamins and minerals. This at a time when urban living and a faster pace of life increase stress, causing the body to consume larger quantities of vitamins and minerals than ever before.

Modern-day women, with increased demands on their time, negative changes in their diet and nutrition, under increasing stress, and unable to exercise properly, are struggling to balance their lives.

The harsh reality of the modern-day woman's life is one of constant physical and emotional wear and tear. The woman's carefully synchronized body is out of equilibrium and she is out of touch with her true emotions. Devoured, and often not much appreciated in the balance, many women feel a sense of living on the brink.

With the speed of daily life getting ever faster, and increasing vitamin and mineral deficiencies in our diet, PMS in all women, especially working mothers, will only increase, with increasing numbers of symptoms occurring, and the severity of those symptoms increasing.

What is Chelation?

Chelation, pronounced �key-late,� is the process of bonding inorganic minerals with amino acids. Amino acids are mixed with inorganic minerals while in solution creating a covalent bond, as shown below.

Since amino acids are completely and efficiently absorbed by highly specialized duodenal cells known as villi, they are ideally suited to serve as carriers of the bonded minerals or trace elements.

When chelated to amino acids minerals are soluble (dissolved) so they become bioavailable. Absorption takes place more efficiently and uptake is more rapid.

Unique B-Complex

B vitamins, known as the "energy vitamins," have attributes which set them apart from all other vitamins. B vitamins are synergistic, to achieve optimum efficiency all the B vitamins must be taken in a particular ratio.

The B vitamins work as a team in producing energy, in the function of the central nervous system, metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins, stimulation of the immune response system and are essential to the formation of RNA and DNA.

B1 (thiamine) is an important neurotransmitter and is necessary to the health of the nervous system. Confusion is a symptom of B1 deficiency.

B2 (riboflavin) prevents acne, is instrumental in cell respiration, maintaining good vision, healthy hair, skin, nails, and is necessary for normal cell growth. Many authorities claim that B2 deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency in America.

B3 (niacin) is involved in more than 50 different metabolic reactions. Niacin helps with hypoglycemia, treating anxiety and depression, and through stimulation of blood flow in the capillaries helps in relieving migraine-type headaches. People who eat too much sugar or refined processed foods require more niacin.

B5 (pantothenic acid) is present in all living cells and is very important to metabolism. It supports the adrenal gland to increase production of cortisone and other adrenal hormones to help counter-act stress and enhance metabolism.

B12 (Cobalamin) is often referred to as the "energy" vitamin. B12 makes up for the anemia, weakness and fatigue brought on by menstrual problems. B12 deficiency is especially wide spread due to the fact that it is depleted by the use of birth control pills, antibiotics and tetracyclines.

Folic acid works with B12 in fighting anemia, fatigue, irritability, headaches, heart palpitations, forgetfulness, and a feeling of paranoia. Mental symptoms of poor memory, general apathy, withdrawal, lack of motivation, and depression are signs of folic acid deficiency. Folic acid absorption diminishes with age, therefore the need for supplementation increases as we grow older.

Inositol has a primary function in cell membrane structure and integrity. Acting with choline it helps in brain cell nutrition and emulsifies and distributes body fat.

Para-aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) supports folic acid production and deficiency of PABA is the most likely cause of graying hair.

Biotin helps to reduce blood sugar. Is needed for the synthesis of fatty acids and is necessary in the formation of DNA and RNA.

The B-complex alone is not enough. Other vitamins and minerals are a necessity in order to prevent both physical and emotional symptoms from overwhelming the PMS sufferer.

The condition where a woman has deficient, normal, or excessive estrogen but little or no progesterone to balance its effects in her body. Even a woman with low estrogen levels can suffer from estrogen dominance if she doesn�t have proper levels of progesterone.

Estrogen dominance leads to effects and symptoms. The greater the gap becomes between progesterone and estrogen the more symptoms tend to onset, while existing symptoms become exacerbated.

These dangerous side effects and symptoms are very effectively prevented by real natural progesterone only, not diosgenin or Mexican Wild Yam. There are definitive referenced physiological effects of both estrogen and progesterone.

Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)

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Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) (also called PMT, pre-menstrual tension or pre-menstrual depression) is a combination of physical and psychological symptoms that occur in some women in approximately the week before menstruation begins.

PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS: The physical symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome include # changes in appetite (e.g craving for sweets and chocolates), # headaches, # swollen, tender breasts, # water retention (with oedema, bloating and weight gain), # stomach complaints, # pelvic pain and backache # increased perspiration, # intense energy, followed by fatigue. The incidence and severity of the symptoms vary from woman to woman and from cycle to cycle.

PSYCHOLOGICAL/EMOTIONAL/BEHAVIOURAL SYMPTOMS: These include # irritability, # mood swings, # anxiety, # tearfulness, # depression, # fatigue and # difficulties with impulse control - all typically occurring pre-menstrually.

Most women experience few, if any, of these pre-menstrual symptoms and most are able to carry on their usual activities without any problems. Others are mildly incapacitated. Some women, however, experience symptoms which are so debilitating that their day to day functioning and relationships may be affected to varying degrees.

CAUSES: PMS is probably caused by a variety of factors, which differ from person to person.

Symptoms and remedies for PMS

PMS, for years women were told it was all in their heads. Women who suffer from this have been the butt of many jokes for years and years. Over the last couple of decades the medical community has declared that PMS is not in women�s heads but throughout their bodies. Years ago, these women were diagnosed with psychological problems. Really, ask any woman who has ever had it and they could have told you it was real.

PMS - short for premenstrual syndrome. It occurs one or two weeks before menstruation begins. Not all women get PMS and some only get it occasionally, but for the many thousands of women who do get it at any time for any length, any type of relief is helpful. Husbands and other family members also sometimes grateful for relief.

bodyOffer(29889) Premenstrual syndrome has several causes. There are some medications which women take that can cause increased PMS symptoms. Another cause is an allergy to certain foods.

You may crave certain foods (chocolate, sugar, caffeine, etc.) at this time, which can lead to an unstable amount of blood sugar levels. That�s why proper nutrition including the basic food groups is very important especially at this time.

Current studies have shown that women who consume caffeine are three to four times more likely to suffer from PMS.

Another is the hormonal change a woman goes through each month with her menstrual cycle. The average menstrual cycle is 28 days, however, each woman is different and there are variations of this. During the woman�s cycle, the body releases different hormones, estrogen and progesterone. The body releasing too much estrogen and not enough progesterone causes PMS. This affects the body causing imbalances throughout. At the time of this article not enough is known about PMS and researchers are still working on bringing not only relief but trying to find the causes and eliminate this problem.

Some of the physical symptoms of PMS are headaches, abdominal bloating, fatigue, acne, cravings, backaches, constipation or diarrhea, insomnia, fainting, breast swelling and tenderness. Some of the personality changes that occur with PMS are irritability, drastic mood swings, uncontrollable anger, violence and suicidal thoughts.

bodyOffer2() There are several over the counter remedies, which can be bought at any drug store, retail, store or grocery store. There are also prescription drugs that can be taken to alleviate some of the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, however you need to carefully read the possible side effects and see which is the most appropriate for you personally. Some doctors will prescribe birth control pills to combat PMS.

Many people today use herbal products to help with PMS. Cramp bark, kava kava, rosemary and red raspberry are some of the most popular herbs to relieve cramping. Blessed thistle, dong quai, fennel seed, and sarsaparilla root help with the hormonal imbalance caused at this time. Feverfew is used for the migraines associated with PMS.

Doctors recommend several things to help fight the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome: Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. Cut back on dairy products. Avoid caffeine. Limit sugar. Cut back or eliminate refined sugar products, red meat, alcohol, salt, and junk foods. Contrary to the popular low carb diets now, a diet high in complex carbohydrates help to alleviate stress. Check with your health care provider before attempting a dietary change. Get regular exercise to increase your circulation, this may decrease some PMS associated symptoms.

For cramps, a hot water bottle or warm bath will help reduce the severity of the cramps. This is also good for backache associated with PMS. Also use a heating pad on the back or abdomen but not for prolonged periods of time. Never fall asleep in the bathtub or while using a heating pad.

bodyOffer3() If you are having problems with PMS talk to your health care provider. There are things that can be done for you if your health care provider has all the necessary information about your specific problem.

Title: Symptoms and remedies for PMS
Description: Learn some symptoms and treatments of premenstrual syndrome.

Understanding and Dealing With Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS, is a condition that affects an estimated 50% to 75% of all women. PMS is defined by the monthly visitation of several unfortunate experiences linked to hormonal changes in the body during the menstrual cycle. these chemical changes are usually manifested in the form of anxiety, irritability, fatigue or a variety of other emotional and physiological symptoms. It is important to note that women who have hysterectomies can also suffer from PMS.

A large percentage of women affected by PMS may experience serious disruptions in their personal, marital and professional lives. In some instances, child abuse, alcoholism, obesity and divorce have been attributed to the more severe forms of PMS.

Although PMS Symptoms can be present at puberty, the majority of cases develop in the twenties and mid-thirties, only to worsen with age until genetic menopause occurs. It can begin or worsen after a hysterectomy, tubal ligation or other types of pelvic surgery.

Hysterectomies rarely cure PMS and can aggravate present symptoms. PMS frequently runs in families and could be hereditary. It may begin or worsen when taking oral contraceptives. Extremely stressful events and precede the onset of PMS symptoms or aggravate symptoms already present. Toxemia during pregnancy and post partum depression are also common among suffers of PMS.

Until recent years, PMS has been poorly understood by the medical community, leaving thousands of women trapped and victimized by it's disruptive cycle. Many have accepted these monthly disturbances as simply a part of being a woman.

Symptoms can occur as late as two days or as early as fourteen days before menstruation. A symptom-free phase will then follow, beginning with menstruation. However, in some instances, symptoms of PMS may not all together disappear for several days after the onset of menstruation.

A Natural Remedy For PMS

More than a decade ago, after reading of the work of Dr. Katherina Dalton in London, who defined PMS and found success using high-dose progesterone administered as rectal suppositories, I decided to add natural progesterone cream to my treatment of patients with PMS. The results were more impressive. The majority (but not all) of these patients reported remarkable improvement in their symptoms, including the elimination of their premenstrual water retention and weight gain. I have received hundreds of phone calls and letters from women and their doctors over the past few years who report that PMS has been alleviated with the use of natural progesterone. Dr. Joel T. Hargrove of Vanderbilt University medical Center has published results indicating a 90 percent success rate in treating PMS with oral doses of natural progesterone.

Estrogen is the dominant sex hormone during the first week after menstruation. With ovulation, progesterone levels rise to assume dominance during the two weeks preceding menstruation. Progesterone blocks many of estrogen's potential side effects. A surplus of estrogen of a deficiency of progesterone during these two weeks allows an abnormal month long exposure to estrogen dominance, setting the stage for the symptoms of estrogen side effects. If you want to test this for yourself, have your doctor measure your serum or saliva progesterone levels during days 18 to 25 of your cycle. Low progesterone levels undoubtedly affect hormone regulatory centers in the brain, resulting in increased production of hormones such as LH and FSH. These may also play a role in the complex symptomatology of PMS. However, for most women, simple correction of the progesterone deficiency will restore normal biofeedback and pituitary function.