Possible Nutrient Deficiencies Causing PMS

Any symptom is the body’s way of showing your cognitive self that something is out of balance.  If you listen to it, you can reap the benefits.  Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a varied collection of symptoms that 75-90% of women experience on a regular basis.  Just because it is ‘common’, does not mean it is ‘normal’.  PMS is a signal to you as a woman that your body is out of balance.  Of the long list of possible contributors to PMS, your nutritional state can have great impact.

Nutrient deficiencies that may contribute include the following:

1.  Calcium
A mineral that controls muscles abilities to contract and relax, which a lack of, can contribute to low back pain, muscle cramps, and fatigue.  High levels of estrogen can disrupt calcium absorption and availability, most notably when estrogen levels are too high in proportion to progesterone.  In addition to managing high estrogen levels, calcium can be supplemented.

2.  Magnesium
This mineral is key to allowing muscles to relax as well as regulating nerve function.  High levels of estrogen will also disrupt the levels of magnesium in the body.

3.  Vitamin B6
This vitamin is intimately related to hormone production, especially those responsible for mood.  It is also responsible for estrogen metabolism.  A very important vitamin to help balance PMS.

4.  Vitamin D
This vitamin has sometimes been referred to as a hormone, as it has so many profound effects on the body.  One most widely known effect, is it’s mood enhancing abilities.  Because of fluctuating hormone levels during the pre-menstrual phase, mood can greatly be effected.  Vitamin D can greatly dampen these effects and improve your mood.

5.  Fiber
Excess hormones, as well as other toxins, are partially eliminating by binding to fiber.  It is the bulking agent for excess substances to latch on to and be excreted via the feces.  Without it, and sufficient water, excess hormones and toxins are reabsorbed back into the body.  It is so very important to have daily fiber.  A great way to get that is via freshly ground flax seeds.  They are quite palatable.  Take 2 tbsp with water at night approximately 1 hour before bed.  The liver is most active during sleep and will be processing and filtering our entire bodies.  The fiber will bind the excess and properly eliminate it via the intestinal tract.  Fiber, especially flax seeds, are an excellent way to eliminate efficiently!

There are many factors to consider when addressing the cause and subsequent treatment in alleviating PMS.  In addition to supplementing with these nutrients, there are many other natural and effective treatments that can be addressed with the help of a qualified licensed Naturopathic Doctor.   You can reach Dr. Krista Moyer at Broadway Wellness by calling 604.732.5222.

Vancouver Naturopath: Vancouver Naturopathic Doctor Krista Moyer