Supreme bitch mode: engage
We know that it does not take much to trigger PMS, which is why we enlisted the help of a top nutritional therapist, Patrick Holford to share his optimum nutrition principles for the best results.
“What many women don’t realise is that there are ways to relieve the unbearable burden of PMS and put an end to their monthly suffering”.
What Triggers PMS?
Holford stresses that in order to effectively treat PMS, understanding the causes are necessary. Wondering why you suffer when it comes to that time of the month? It’s because the precise cause of PMS remains vague and technical to grasp. And who wants to worry about the technical when you’re in pain, right?
READ MORE: Why Are Some Periods Worse Than Others?
Patrick says, “Ovulation appears to be the common denominator, with evidence suggesting that the symptoms are generally a result of changes in brain chemistry triggered by fluctuations in ovarian hormones. Both oestrogen and progesterone levels tend to change sharply before a period and this sudden fluctuation is thought to trigger PMS.”
Don’t Let PMS Beat You
To keep the PMS at bay, a well-balanced diet is vital. Here are some tips to make sure those annoying PMS troubles stay away.
Don’t Be Afraid of Carbs
Really! They’re good for you. Having a balanced blood sugar level is key for calming those raging hormones. Make sure you eat complex, unrefined carbohydrates such as whole grains, beans and plenty of vegetables.
Stay away from all refined carbs and any foods with added sugar.
Get the Right 5 a Day
Veggies such as broccoli and cauliflower are especially great if you suffer from PMS, as they contain a substance called diindolylmethane (DIM), which has been shown to mop up excess oestrogen.
Out With the Bad, in With the Good
Replace ‘bad’ saturated and hydrogenated fats, which trigger headaches, menstrual cramps and endometriosis discomfort. Try eating essential fats found in oily fish, nuts, seeds and vegetables oils to prevent inflammation and reduce abnormal blood clotting.
Cut the Caffeine
Sadly…caffeine not only removes vital minerals and vitamins from your body due to its diuretic effect. How does it link to PMS? Breast pain and tenderness as well as being a stimulant, which means it affects your blood sugar levels.
…And the Alcohol
Your liver is the one of the key organs which controls and balances your hormones. As this is where excess hormones can be removed. If the liver is over-taxed by too much alcohol and a poor diet, that process of elimination cannot occur.
It’s Time to Consider Soya
Plant-derived substances called phytoestrogens, which are found in high amounts in soya products, various vegetables and a wide range of legumes are similar to oestrogens but it actually works to reduce the PMS-causing problems of oestrogen dominance.
Bulk Up On Fiber
Fibre plays a key role in balancing female hormones in addition to aiding digestion and reducing cholesterol.
Get Some Supplements
Look into getting supplements such as B3, B6, zinc and some combination of fish oil omega 3-fates with borage oil for omega-6 fats.
Looking for more info on your period? Ladies in close proximity all get their periods at the same time right? 95 percent of women believe their period cycles can sync, but the science is suspect.
