Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) by Lorna Vanderhaeghe

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An A-Z Woman's Guide to Vibrant Health

Premenstrual Syndrome

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is the brunt of many terrible jokes, yet this syndrome can be devastating to the sufferer and her family. The symptoms of PMS affect between 50 percent and 70 percent of women, leading to the mistaken belief that it is normal. Symptoms can occur at different times and at different intensities throughout the cycle, but typically appear between seven and fourteen days before menstruation. I am continually amazed at how many women think that PMS and terrible periods are an inevitable part of being female, even though common PMS is not normal.

Symptoms
Symptoms of PMS range from swollen and tender breasts, altered sex drive and uterine cramps to bloating, constipation and diarrhea with a change in appetite and cravings for carbohydrates and other foods. Other symptoms include backaches, water retention, fatigue and insomnia, heart palpitations, dizziness, headaches and migraine, skin problems, herpes and other signs of reduced immunity. Most people associate PMS with moodiness, anxiety, irritability or depression. One of the hallmark symptoms is angry outbursts that are difficult for the sufferer to control, hence its categorization as a psychiatric condition or hysteria.

Causes
PMS is linked to liver and bowel congestion, poor diet and lack of exercise. Hormonal imbalances are also a factor, and may involve estrogen excess; an excess or deficiency in progesterone; thyroid imbalances; high levels of aldosterone, an adrenal hormone that can cause muscle spasms; or prolactin excess. Some research suggests that increased estrogen is associated with decreased serotonin, the “feel good” hormone. Serotonin helps to regulate mood, and a deficiency is linked to depression.

Deficiencies or excess prostaglandins can also lead to PMS symptoms. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that regulate a range of physiological responses, including inflammation and muscle contraction, along with some reproductive functions.

Deficiencies in nutrients such as magnesium, vitamins A and E and B-complex, particularly B6, can also be a factor in PMS. Those with PMS often eat more refined sugars, carbohydrates, salt and dairy. Vegetarian women tend to experience less PMS, suggesting a link with meat and dairy consumption (they contain high levels of xenoestrogens). Women who suffer from PMS also tend to have low levels of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) and other essential fats.

PRESCRIPTION FOR WOMEN'S HEALTH

Nutrients

Dosage

Action

Multivitamins with minerals; (contains no iron)
FemmEssentials or MultiEssentials for women

As directed. For complete formula recommendations see Appendix A

Ensures adequate nutrient status. B vitamins are essential for treating PMS, along with a foundation of good nutrients

EstroSense

2 capsules twice a day with food containing:

Milk Thistle 100 mg

Supports liver health, which is important for metabolism of hormones

D-glucarate 300 mg

Important for healthy metabolism of estrogen; detoxifies breast cancer-promoting agents

Turmeric )100 mg
(95% curcumin
100 mg inositol daily

Prevents breast cancer, detoxifies cancercausing form of estrogen, excellent to reduce chemotherapy side effects

Indole-3-carbinol 300 mg
(found in cruciferous vegetables)

Reduces risk of breast cancer, can be used in conjunction with tamoxifen; prevents healthy estrogen from converting into the cancer-causing form

Green tea extract 200 mg daily

Protects against breast cancer

Rosemary extract 50 mg daily

Reduces tumor formation and breast lumps; antioxidant

Lycopene 10 mg daily

Antioxidant, reduces risk of breast cancer

Sulforaphane 400 mcg daily

Reduces risk of breast cancer

Natural progesterone cream

In Canada, progesterone cream is a prescription drug. Use 6% natural progesterone 1/4 to1/2 tsp morning and night between days 5-28 (or whenever your normal cycle ends). In the U.S., ProgestaCare by Life Flo is nice as it delivers 20 mg in a pre-measured pump dose.

Improves the ratio of progesterone to estrogen. Limits the endometrial tissue build-up caused by estrogen. Ensure proper monitoring (blood and saliva tests) is done so you do not develop progesterone excess

Evening Primrose Oil
or Borage Oil

Evening Primrose oil 4000 mg per day or Borage oil 2000 mg per day

GLA found in evening primrose and borage oil helps control inflammatory prostaglandins, and reduces breast tenderness

HappySense
5-HTP entric coated 99% pure

50-100 mg three times per day at breakfast, supper, bedtime

Enhances serotonin (“feel good” hormone), improves mood, calms anxiety and nervousness, helps mild depression; improves sleep

HEALTH TIPS TO ENHANCE HEALING

EstroSense is the key nutrient for eliminating PMS. Take two capsules with breakfast.
See Endometriosis, Fibrocystic Breasts and Menopause health tips.
Peri-menopause and menopause can be a time when women experience the most severe PMS symptoms.
Have your thyroid checked. Low thyroid hormone levels create severe PMS symptoms.
Eliminate all xenoestrogens from the diet and home.
Cut back on caffeine from all sources (chocolate, soda pop, coffee and black tea). Drink herbal tea.
A high-fiber diet with plenty of organic fruits and vegetables helps to eliminate excess estrogen.
Eat only organic meats, and eliminate dairy from the diet. Both contain high amounts of xenoestrogens.
Meditation, exercise and acupuncture are techniques help reduce the symptoms of PMS. Love yourself. Get plenty of rest. You do not have to be the “super” mom, wife and employee.

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