How to reduce PMS symptoms?

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is one of the most common disorders of premenopausal women, and therefore, there is really no woman on the planet (and neither her partner or family members) that looks forward to those PMS days. In a previous article, I had mentioned the benefits of evening primrose oil for relieving symptoms of PMS. I have since heard from dozens of women who found this natural cure beneficial.

Scientists have now found that high intake of calcium and vitamin D may reduce the risk of PMS. Given that calcium and vitamin D may also reduce the risk of osteoporosis and some cancers in women, the researchers are recommending these nutrients even for younger women.

This is how it works. Studies suggest that blood calcium and vitamin D levels are lower in women with PMS and that calcium supplementation may reduce symptom severity. They also found that intake of skim or low-fat milk was also associated with a lower risk of PMS.

The team of scientists that includes Elizabeth Bertone-Johnson, Susan Hankinson, Adrianne Bendich, Susan Johnson, Walter Willett, and JoAnn Manson have published their findings in a paper entitled "Calcium and Vitamin D Intake and Risk of Incident Premenstrual Syndrome."

How to increase your intake of calcium and Vitamin D?

1. Of course, supplements are the easiest to take. You can buy excellent supplements of calcium and vitamin D on many online drugstores.
2. You can also increase your intake of calcium and vitamin D from natural sources. Just pick food items, for example milk/yogurt/cheese, that are rich in these nutrients. Other foods are soy nuts, figs, tofu, and soy milk. Unfortunately, very few foods naturally contain vitamin D, but dairy products do have some vitamin D. A few products may have vitamin D added to them and you can look at the label to find that out. Therefore, it is best to take a multi-vitamin pill.