Balanced diet and PMS

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Healthy eating habits and good nutrition may help relieve some of your premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.

Eat small meals high in complex carbohydrates and whole grains to keep your blood sugar levels steady throughout the day. Carbohydrates may also reduce food cravings. A balanced diet with the proper amount of protein may also help blood sugar levels remain steady.
Restrict the amount of salt in your diet. Salt can cause your body to hold water (water retention), which may make you feel bloated.
Avoid diets high in refined sugar, fat, caffeine, and alcohol because these substances are more likely to worsen PMS symptoms. Sugar may increase feelings of anxiety or tension.
Try a vitamin B6 supplement. Take no more than daily. High doses of vitamin B6 can cause problems with the nervous system.
Try taking calcium ( daily) and magnesium ( daily). This may improve negative moods and reduce fluid retention and pain. It may take two or three menstrual cycles to see improvement in your PMS symptoms.

Credits

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Author	Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated	June 19, 2008

Last updated:	June 19, 2008
Author:	Sandy Jocoy, RN
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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