Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can debilitate some women, but there is clear evidence that calcium may help naturally relieving PMS.

Every woman knows that PMS symptoms are no laughing matter – bloating, food cravings, joint aches and mood changes can make the time prior to onset of menstruation a real challenge. The symptoms of PMS are surprisingly common, as more than 3/4 of women experience a few symptoms as a minimum within the week before a menstrual period. Of course, nonprescription painkillers like Advil will relieve some generalized aches, but it can’t treat mood swings or the irritability. Sometimes the signs can be so strong that women may be prescribed anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs, but they usually cause more side effects than relief.

Way to relieve PMS naturally
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology published a great study, describing the ability of the calcium to help naturally relieving PMS. According to the results of a study, more than a thousand women took 1,200 milligrams of calcium for three month, and it helped them ease PMS symptoms, significantly decreasing them by half. According to some other researches, women suffering from heavy PMS symptoms usually have problems with calcium metabolism, and that is the main source of their symptoms. When it comes to the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, calcium appears to be an essential mineral.

Forms of calcium
There are lots of calcium compounds available. The abovementioned study used calcium carbonate. It can be found at most health food stores and drugstores. Another way is to take Tums Extra Strength pills containing 750mg of calcium carbonate. If you take 2 of them every day, it’ll be enough for necessary benefits.

Other ways to relieve PMS naturally
Taking calcium in order to relieve symptoms is just a part of a big plan targeted at relieving discomfort in women. For example, avoiding high carbohydrate meals and salt can help relieve the weight gain, bloating and cravings that most women experience within the week before menstruation period. Regular exercises are able to help eliminate mood swings. Other methods to relieve PMS symptoms include avoiding caffeine and nicotine, which tend to increase anxiety and tension and alter mood. It’s very important to sleep enough as well.

Despite it might not eliminate all of the PMS symptoms, calcium appears to help lots of women. A good tip is to keep your symptom diary, as it would help focus on the factors making the symptoms worse and consequently correct them.