Natural Ways to Soothe PMS

Many of us dread “that time of the month”—and so do our significant others! If you suffer from PMS, know that there are a few simple things you can do to alleviate the mood swings and irritability, the bloating and discomfort—physical and emotional—that come along with it.

Get expert advice, here:

While nobody knows for sure what causes PMS, one theory is that PMS is exacerbated by allergies. One thing we do know for sure: the following suggestions have been shown to give significant relief to those who have tried them.

1. Avoid refined sugar, caffeine, alcohol, and excessive salt intake.

2. You may also want to try eliminating dairy for a few cycles to see if it helps.

3. Try aerobic exercise. Women who tried running 1.5 miles per day 5 days a week showed significant improvement in their premenstrual symptoms.

4. Try upping your intake of the following:

Vitamin B6
Magnesium
Calcium
Vitamin E
Essential Fatty Acids (flaxseed oil is a good source)

Read more: Health, Natural Remedies, pms

Adapted from Natural Medicine, Optimal Wellness, by Jonathan V. Wright, M.D. and Alan R. Gaby, M.D. (Vital Health Publishing, 2006). Copyright (c) 2006 by Wright and Gaby. Reprinted by permission of Vital Health Publishing.
Adapted from Natural Medicine, Optimal Wellness, by Jonathan V. Wright, M.D. and Alan R. Gaby, M.D. (Vital Health Publishing, 2006).

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Robert O.

12:41AM PDT on Jun 15, 2011

Too bad natural methods weren't as popular way back when my mom had PMS. She suffered miserably (as did everyone else in the family as a result).

send a green star

Jo A.

4:07PM PDT on Jun 6, 2011

Thanks for these tips. Very helpful! I add flaxseeds to my smoothies. I walk my dog daily. I take lots of fruits and veggies, and take them as raw as possble. I use sugar from fruits instead of refined sugar.

Charlene S.

11:25AM PDT on May 23, 2011

In my experience essential fatty acids make a big difference, especially if you are vegetarian or vegan. Spirulina is a great vegetarian source. A number of years ago I had a free sample of Pure Planet Spirulina given to me and I really noticed a big difference in terms of improved mood and more stable energy. It also has lots of vitamins and minerals too.

KS G.

6:17PM PDT on May 6, 2011

Thanks for the article.

Teresa W.

11:39AM PDT on Jun 2, 2010

I don't think I ever get PMS.