PMS Treatment
PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) can have a serious impact on everyday life with its mood swings, fatigue, and menstrual cramps. It can have an effect on anything from a relationship, to your job performance, to your general wellbeing. PMS can also worsen during the different stages of life like puberty, periods after childbirth, periods after miscarriage, or with changes in contraception. However, there are treatments and things you can do throughout your daily routine that will help relieve the symptoms.
- Adjust your meal routine to 6 small meals a day instead of three large ones. By eating more frequently, your blood sugar will stabilize and help with your symptoms.
- Reduce your intake of foods that are rich in fat, sugar, and salt.
- Limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine.
- Eat fibre-rich diets that contain complex carbohydrates like whole grains, beans, brown rice, or lentils.
- Add more calcium-rich foods to your diet.
- Get regular exercise to keep your body fluid. It even helps you sleep better too.
- Light stretching when you have period pain will help to reduce the pain and cramping.
- Get religious about a good night’s sleep each night. Regular sleeping habits—yes, even on weekends—will help to lessen moodiness and fatigue.
- Take time out for yourself to reduce your stress levels. Stress plays a big part in triggering PMS symptoms, so take some time out each day to listen to your favourite music, take a walk in the park, have a relaxing bath, or whatever it is that helps you unwind.
- Consult your doctor about the use of calcium, magnesium, or vitamin E supplements.
- If nothing else works for you, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor for help. Talk to him/her about your menstrual cycle chart, food logs, and any medications you are already using. This way you can learn more about which PMS treatments will work best for you.