I see Patrick Holford has recently written a mini primer about how to approach PMS with natural health methods. I agree with pretty much everything he says – especially the anti-inflammatory Low GL, low allergen diet, plenty of magnesium, B6 and co-factors, with support for the key neurotransmitters, especially if you have mood symptoms, and herbs like dong quai etc.
Over the years, I have found Marilyn Glenville’s female health support products really effective and would point you to those specifically if you need help in this area. Here is my standard protocol for you in case it helps. (Do remember to use the ND discount code to save some monies too if ordering anything, see here):
PMS Protocol
Belly Fat Diet (ignore the name; it’s a simple low allergen low GL diet which happens to balance insulin, the main cause of belly fat gain)
PM Support – for the P5P B6, chromium and siberian ginseng, which is fab for adrenal balancing.
A little extra magnesium preferably – 1-2 per day of Magnesium Citrizorb and
Omega Support for fish oils
Anyway, here’s Patrick’s primer for you:
Beating PMS with Diet
Note that he suggests supplementing with 5HTP. This can really help but I’ve often found that the low GL diet automatically leads to an increase in protein consumption which, in turn, increases natural tryptophan levels, so you may not need it. Some people do boost it for up to 3 months to start with but then you should find you can do with out it. You can use this 5-HTP if necessary then. It’s always best to start with a lower 50mg dose rather than use 100mg type products because you have much more flexibility in dosage then. My view is always to start with 50mg per day before bed or on rising and build up to max 250mg-300mg per day – preferably between meals as you absorb it better then. Many people only need low doses. Be led by your health professional, as usual.
Hope that helps. If you have really severe PMS throughout most of the month, by the way, do read this post too:
PMDD: Do You Have PMS Most of The Month?