Medical Questions » Female Problems Questions » Question No. 1497
| Question: | Which supplements are best for PMS? |
| Answer: | For years, the key nutrient for avoiding PMS has been vitamin B6. It was then discovered than B6 works better with zinc. Then research found that magnesium is especially helpful for women with breast tenderness. Many women also find relief with evening primrose oil, which is high in an essential fat called GLA. GLA is converted in the body into prostaglandins, which among other things help reduce PMS symptoms such as water retention, irritability and fatigue. And to tie it all together, scientists have now established that the conversion in the body of GLA to prostaglandins depends on adequate B6, magnesium and zinc. There are supplements that combine these three nutrients; and in addition, I recommend you supplement the equivalent of 250mg of GLA. So take one starflower oil (or borage oil) 1,000mg capsule, or five evening primrose oil 500mg capsules.
Keeping blood sugar levels even throughout the month helps minimize PMS. For this, eat regularly, have protein (fish, yoghurt, lean meat, soya) and fibre (vegetables, fruit, wholegrains) at each meal, cut out sugar, processed foods, coffee, tea and alcohol and take 200mcg of the mineral chromium each day. |
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