Premenstrual Syndrome
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 significant 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 worries that it will be used to prove women too emotionally and physically unpredictable for specific 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 minor ones.
Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome
The most common symptoms of premenstrual 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 fluctuations are normal during the menstrual cycle, recurring symptoms of premenstrual syndrome occur when these changes are extreme and troubling. These hormonal irregularities are brought about by a mixed set of factors, particularly poor nutritional situation. Many premenstrual syndrome signs are linked to an anomaly of prostaglandins, hormone-like fatty acids that change many-body manners. This inequality is usually due to a diet rich in food and meat products, and lacking in cold-pressed oils receiving essential fatty acids. Too much sugar, salt, coffee, and refined white-flour products aggravated symptoms.
What causes Premenstrual Syndrome?
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 premenstrual syndrome symptoms by decreasing the body’s immunity to disease. Hypoglycemia, an underactive thyroid, metal poisoning, and food allergies, will also aggravate Premenstrual Syndrome symptoms.
Fortunately, several different natural herbs and enzymes are 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 chaste berry 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 ensures that your body can adequately assimilate the active nutrients in these herbs.
