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Premenstrual syndrome, commonly known
as PMS, typically recurs about one to two weeks before the menstrual
period and disappears once or shortly after the period begins.
Practically every woman experiences at least one PMS symptom
sometime in her life. Specific symptoms vary from woman to woman,
and some 5 to 10 percent of women experience symptoms severe
enough for them to seek medical help. Women most often affected
by premenstrual syndrome are those who have experienced a major
hormonal change, as may happen after childbirth, miscarriage,
abortion or tubal ligation. Women who discontinue birth control
pills may also notice an increase in PMS symptoms until their
hormone balance returns.
Although PMS has been reported in the medical literature since
the 1930's its validity as a 'medical condition' is a hotly
debated subject. Many worry that it will be used to prove women
too emotionally and physically unpredictable for certain jobs
or responsibilities. Experts point out, however, that the syndrome
- although sometimes discomforting- is rarely debilitating.
Some women experience purely emotional changes, while others
feel physical discomfort, or a combination of both. PMS is not
a normal part of the monthly cycle, and many women do not experience
any problems or very minor ones.
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The most common symptoms
of PMS are mood swings, irritability and bloating. Water retention
can cause tender and swollen breasts, hands and feet, and
if extreme, weight gain. Food cravings and strong appetite
are common. Skin problems also tend to surface at this time.
In some cases, emotional symptoms can be quite disruptive,
causing mental fatigue, forgetfulness, insomnia or depression.
Other common problems include headaches, abdominal cramps,
backaches, physical exhaustion and dizziness.
While hormonal changes are normal throughout the menstrual
cycle, recurring symptoms of PMS occur when these changes
are extreme and unbalanced. These hormonal
imbalances are brought about by a complex set of factors,
especially poor nutritional status. Many PMS symptoms are
linked to an imbalance of prostaglandins, hormone-like fatty
acids that affect many body processes. This imbalance is usually
due to a diet rich in meat and meat products, and lacking
in cold-pressed oils containing essential fatty acids. Too
much sugar, slat, coffee and refined white-flour products
aggravated symptoms.
A sluggish liver is often responsible for an imbalance of
hormones, since this organ is responsible for the breakdown
and detoxification of hormones. Keeping the liver
cleansed is very important for ensuring good hormonal
balance.*
Improper diet, lack of sleep, emotional stress and lack of
exercise are also responsible for aggravation PMS symptoms
by lowering the body's resistance to disease. Hypoglycemia,
an underactive thyroid, metal poisoning and food allergies
will also aggravate PMS symptoms.
Fortunately, several different natural herbs and enzymes have
been found to be very beneficial for a woman's endocrine system
and can help ease symptoms associated with PMS and menopause.
Supplementing the
health of the endocrine system with herbs like chasteberry
fruit, milk thistle and dong quai root promotes a balanced
endocrine system, which is intimately involved with a women's
quality of life.* A good supply of enzymes such as protease,
amylase, and lipase ensure that your body can properly assimilate
the active nutrients in these herbs.
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