PMS natural treatment in Toronto

Don't Stress PMS!

By Dr. Pamela Frank, BSc (Hons), ND

Licensed Naturopathic Doctor

You live with PMS symptoms because you are a woman, strong and stoic, but did you know that PMS does not have to be a fact of life every month? Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), affects 75 – 90% of women at some point, making it very common, but it is certainly not healthy. PMS is defined as a collection of symptoms that typically occur for one to two weeks before menstruation, followed by improvement for 2-3 weeks and may include the following:

Acne
Anxiety
Backaches
Bloated abdomen
Constipation
Cramping
Crying spells
Depression
Difficulty concentrating
Difficulty sleeping
Emotional hypersensitivity
Excessive hunger
Food cravings
Forgetfulness
Headaches or migraines
Irritability
Low energy
Joint pains
Low libido
Mood swings
Tender, swollen breasts
Suicidal thoughts
Water retention
Weight gain
Withdrawal

Address the root cause of the problem; don’t settle for just easing symptoms. PMS is caused by nutrient deficiencies, blood sugar instability, hormonal imbalances and/or hormone fluctuations throughout a woman’s menstrual cycle.

· Avoid petroleum based personal care products like baby oil, foundation and lipstick

2. B vitamins help the liver metabolize estrogen, support the adrenals (your stress glands) and help produce serotonin, a mood elevating hormone.

3. Vitex, also known as Chastetree berry, has a progesterone enhancing effect that offsets excess estrogen that can cause PMS. I do not recommend self-medicating with herbs; seek advice from a qualified naturopathic doctor.

4. Improve the liver’s ability to detoxify and eliminate excess hormones and all toxins.

5. Stabilize blood sugar levels through exercise, healthy diet and supplements like chromium, vanadium and cinnamon.

6. Magnesium helps relax muscle tension and supports healthy serotonin production. Serotonin is a mood elevating neurotransmitter that can help you feel more upbeat.

7. Fish oil and evening primrose oil can help balance prostaglandin production. Prostaglandins can have an inflammatory or an anti-inflammatory effect, the key is a healthy balance of essential fatty acids.

These are just a few of the many means that I use as a naturopathic doctor to normalize hormones and ensure month-long health and happiness.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided here may not apply precisely to your individual situation. Diagnostic and therapeutic choices must always be tailored to the individual patient's circumstances, and consultation with a licensed naturopathic physician should be undertaken before following any of the treatment strategies suggested in this web site.