Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS): Defined as a collection of symptoms occurring 1 to 2 weeks before menstruation.
Resolution of Symptoms: Symptoms typically resolve shortly after menstruation begins.
Prevalence: Almost 90% of women experience some degree of premenstrual symptoms.
Mood Swings: The most common PMS symptom, including feelings of anxiety, irritability, sadness, or anger.
Estrogen and Serotonin: Mood swings are linked to decreases in estrogen levels, reducing serotonin levels, and impacting well-being.
Fatigue and Energy Levels: The second most common symptom, affected by hormonal shifts impacting sleep quality and body temperature.
Progesterone's Role: Increases in progesterone lead to tiredness due to its calming effect and a slight increase in body temperature.
Feeling Full and Weight Gain: Water retention and slow digestion due to hormonal shifts cause a sense of fullness, bloating, and temporary weight gain.
Breast Tenderness: Hormonal shifts also cause breast fluid retention, leading to tenderness and soreness.
Cramps and Prostaglandins: Increased prostaglandins during the menstrual cycle's second phase cause painful cramping in the lower abdomen.
Food Cravings: Lower serotonin levels trigger cravings for foods that can boost serotonin, like chocolate and carbohydrates.
Calcium Supplements: Can reduce PMS symptoms, including cramps and mood swings, by 48%.
Magnesium: Improves symptoms like bloating, weight gain, and breast tenderness, with a 34% reduction in symptoms.
Vitamin B6: Aids in neurotransmitter synthesis, mood stabilization, and reduces irritability, improving symptoms by about 25%.
Chasteberry and Evening Primrose Oil: Effective in treating PMS symptoms through hormonal balance and reducing inflammation, with chasteberry reducing symptoms by about 48% and evening primrose oil being effective for managing PMS symptoms through its content of gamma-linolenic acid.
Disclaimer:
This information is provided for general knowledge and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your doctor for any questions or concerns you may have about your health.
