Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a recurring condition suffered by menstruating women. The symptoms can appear 7 to 14 days before menstruation. Typical symptoms include depression, irritability, headaches, painful breasts, low energy, acne, backache, abdominal bloating and water weight gain/edema. For most women, these symptoms are mild discomforts that do not interfere with their daily lives. But for a certain percentage these symptoms are more intense and do present challenges. Hence it is important to determine what environmental, dietary or hormonal issues may play a role in making the symptoms more intense.

There is much research that points to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels. Estrogen levels normally are elevated and progesterone levels normally decrease 5 to 10 days before menses. An increase in the ratio of estrogen to progesterone can tax the liver, lower serotonin and endorphin levels, and interfere with the action of vitamin B-6.

Changes in diet and additional supplementation can go a long way to relieving PMS symptoms. Reduce salt intake, red meat and sugar. Increase the amount of fresh vegetables and fruit you consume. Supplementation with magnesium and vitamin B-6 have proved helpful to some women.

If you suffer from PMS consult an alternative healthcare provider to determine the exact mechanism that is taking place in your body to cause the discomfort.

Often other conditions can be present such as hypothyroidism which can exacerbate PMS symptoms.