Tips for Coping with Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Premenstrual syndrome or PMS can cause discomfort in the life of women by causing mood swings, irritations and so on. Relieve premenstrual symptoms by following these tips.Premenstrual syndrome is very common and women experience physical to emotional and mild to severe symptoms. The major cause for these is hormonal imbalance which occurs during the last half of the menstrual cycle. Some common strategies can help you cope with these symptoms effectively.Premenstrual syndrome or PMS vary from woman to woman. Physical symptoms are breast tenderness, water retention, bloating, headaches, lack of energy, backache and sugar cravings. Emotionally women feel mood swings, irritated, frustrated and even depressed. Some women are extremely sensitive to natural fluctuations in the hormonal level especially during menstruation.Unfortunately not many women are aware of these symptoms and how to deal with them in natural ways. But, there are natural ways in which you can not only deal with these symptoms, but also do well through this time without feeling despondent. Listed below are some ways to deal with PMS naturally. In this articleNutrientsEat WellBe Gentle with YourselfExerciseSleep WellComplementary and Alternative TreatmentsNutrientsNutrients are very important and are considered as a part of the treatment. It is believed that some of the nutrients like zinc level goes down in some women during this period and so they are prone to varieties of infections which lead to many problems. Magnesium is also one of the key elements that keeps us healthy and gives ability to fight with various problems. Vitamin B Complex, vitamin C and calcium are some more nutrients that can help you fight the symptoms.Eat WellSome women find sugar cravings higher at the same time each month. This could be a premenstrual symptom and it is very important they pay attention to healthy eating. If you find this happening to you, make sure you get at least three to four servings of fruits and increase intake of green vegetables in your diet. Pay attention to protein and see that it is lean and clean. Eating healthy will provide your body with the energy it needs and this will automatically lower down your cravings.Be Gentle with YourselfNowadays most women have tight agendas and a busy lifestyle. If you have been overloaded with schedules and so called ‘squeezing things’ especially during the time when you experience PMS, try to say no. Try to improve the situation or deal with it in advance.ExerciseResearch studies have shown that women who are involved in regular exercise experience mild premenstrual symptoms. If you feel low you can keep your intensity low, but important is to keep moving. If you are unable to do vigorous exercises, opt for yoga. Yoga can help you and your body fight stress and feel relaxed. However, women who opt for aerobic training also show good results.Sleep WellMany women underestimate the significance of sleep in life. Sleep helps restore nervous system, maintain healthy weight, improve hormonal balance and ultimately increase longevity. Therefore try to get seven to eight hours of sleep every night and make it a priority all through the menstrual cycle.Complementary and Alternative TreatmentsIt is good to try and cope with premenstrual syndromes naturally, but there are times when you might have to take refuge to alternative treatments and medicines. There are some herbs and natural remedies also available that claim to relieve pre-menstrual syndromes. However, you must avoid taking any over-the-counter medicine or any other medicine without consulting your doctor.Try the self help strategies first and if the above tips do not work with you and you still find it difficult to cope with PMS, consult your physician. Some women suffer from more severe PMS which is Premenstrual Dysphonic Disorder (PMDD). Although, this is a rare disorder, your doctor will find out what is the case with you. Even if the symptoms match with PMDD there are many prescription medication alternatives that can be suggested for you by your doctor.What are symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or PMS? How to prevent PMS? What are the ways to deal with PMS naturally? Discuss here.