You indicated that you either have a history with or are concerned about PMS. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a combination of physical, psychological, and emotional symptoms that affect women in the days leading up to their menstrual period. It's not uncommon for women to experience tender breasts, bloating, mood swings, and cramps prior to their period, but when these symptoms begin to adversely affect their day-to-day life, they're referred to as PMS. Symptoms typically end once a woman's period begins.
PMS symptoms can affect women of all ages but are most common in women who have at least one child or have a family history of depression or a medical history of postpartum depression or mood disorder.
Risk factors include:
- Tobacco use
- Excessive stress
- Inactivity
- High caffeine intake
- Alcohol use
- Poor diet
- Family history
Changes you can make to your lifestyle include:
- Eating an anti-inflammatory diet and eliminating polyunsaturated and trans fats, which promote inflammation
- Including more sources of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, such as wild Alaskan salmon, sardines, flaxseed, and walnuts
- Reducing your intake of salt, sugar, alcohol, and fats
- Taking calcium and B6 supplements
- Taking evening primrose oil or black currant oil
- Drinking raspberry tea leaf for menstrual cramps