Natural PMDD Treatment
PMDD or premenstrual dysphoric syndrome is a debilitating and severe kind of premenstrual syndrome. 30% of women suffer from PMS and 8% of those women have PMDD. Although women who have PMS and PMDD suffer from emotional and physical symptoms, PMDD brings about extreme changes in mood which affects everyday living and relationships. These symptoms begin at least one or two weeks before the start of your mense and will normally improve a few days after the onset. Both PMS and PMDD may bring about breast tenderness, bloating, changes in eating and sleeping habits, and fatigue. However, in PMDD, certain behavioural and emotional symptoms can also occur. Some of these may include:
- Marked anger
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Feeling of being on the edge
- Irritblity
The causes of PMDD are not clear. Underlying anxiety and depression may be common in PMDD and PMS so it is quite possible that the physical changes which trigger your menstrual period may be exacerbated by mood disorder.
Natural PMDD treatment is practiced by most women and these treatment focused on minimizing and preventing the symptoms of the condition.
Nutritional Supplements
Taking 1000mg of supplemental and dietary calcium everyday can reduce the emotional and physical symptoms associated with PMDD. Magnesium, L-tryptophan, and Vitamin B6 is also recomended.
Herbal Treatments for PMDD
Research suggests that chasteberry can reduce mood swings, anger, headaches, and irritability that are associated with the condition.
Treating PMDD With Nutrition
- Reduce intake of caffeine and alcohol to help you alleviate irritability and anxiety. A week before your period, eating more lean protein and carbohydrates can also improve memory and mood.
- Limit intake of chocolate, alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine-containing substances. Caffeine has been known to exacerbate PMDD symptoms while alcohol can affect hormone levels directly. Chocolate can contribute to the severe mood swings and it can be addictive.
- Eat small and frequent meals. This can help in stabilizing energy levels especially during the premenstrual phase. Consume meals which are rich in complex carbohydrates and low in fat.
Regular Exercise
Have a regular exercise routine since it has been proven to reduce premenstrual symptoms. Exercising at least five times in a week can cause an increase in the production of pain-relieving and mood-elevating endorphins.
If you want to try natural PMDD treatment, it is best if you have consulted all your symptoms with your doctor. Medical evaluation may help in determining if the symptoms are caused by another condition or by PMDD. If you have been diagnosed already, ask your doctor about the treatment options that he or she recommends so that symptoms may be alleviated.