Cramps, bloating, crankiness, and breakouts are just a few of the dreaded symptoms of PMS, but most of us just treat it with Aleve and a heating pad (or a carton of chocolate ice cream). However, there are actually more options for treating PMS symptoms than you think.
While PMS is often blamed on our hormones, as the natural fluctuations impact our brains, mood, anxiety levels, and breakouts, the underlying causes of PMS are as varied as the symptoms itself. Luckily, there are supplements you can take that relieve the unpredictable pains of PMS.
Dr. Josh Axe, a doctor of natural medicine, the founder of Ancient Nutrition, and best-selling author of Keto Diet, gives us the inside scoop on the lesser-known causes of PMS and five research-backed supplements to help treat its most loathed symptoms. Check out his recommendations below.
B-vitamins and magnesium
Taking these together during your period can work wonders for your PMS problems. “During your period, I would highly recommend taking a B-complex and magnesium,” Axe begins. B-vitamins and magnesium can independently impact your mood and energy and help with everything from migraines to constipation. Taken together? Pure magic. According to Axe, a study conducted in Iran found that the combination of vitamin B6 and magnesium reduced PMS severity in a statistically significant way. Anxiety, depression, acne, breast pain, and nausea all improved.
Essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, can help treat inflammation, which is linked to worse cramps, weight gain, and breast pain during PMS. “Look for a supplement that contains a blend of essential fatty acids, including omega-3s [like] DHA, EPA, and ALA,” Axe notes.
Chasteberry
Chasteberry is the secret to keeping your hormones in check. The herb helps to regulate the levels of reproductive hormones that fuel the vicious cycle of PMS.
Calcium
“PMS can cause fluctuations in certain neurotransmitters that regulate mood, such as serotonin, which can cause side effects like depression and anxiety to surface when it’s that time of the month,” says Axe. However, taking a calcium supplement helps to support the metabolism of neurotransmitters in the brain.
Breakouts are one of the worst symptoms of PMS. So here are the best beauty products for that time of the month.
xx, The FabFitFun Team
