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Extreme period symptoms
I suffer from very bad periods - nausea, cramps, and headaches - and, about a week before this all starts, very bad PMT. I feel very emotional and could cry over the least thing. I’ve found nothing to ease the pain or the mood swings. Can you suggest something that will work?
Females who suffer from cramping have been shown to produce greater levels of prostaglandins - the hormones secreted by the uterine lining - and this can be exacerbated by a diet that is rich in saturated fats from meat and dairy products, so try to cut down on these.
Evening primrose oil is rich in Gamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA) an anti-inflammatory prostaglandin that can counter the inflammatory hormones causing pain. You need to take the equivalent of 250mg of GLA a day for at least three months and monitor the relief. Period pains will also be made worse by any underlying digestive disorder, especially constipation, so a high fibre diet and a good quality probiotic will help too.
Underlying blood-sugar imbalances are exacerbated by pre-menstrual tension and so one of the best PMS supplements now available includes the trace mineral chromium, which works to redress this. Nutrition Now’s PMS Support also includes vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) to alleviate nausea and muscle cramping, and three of the most effective hormone-balancing herbs for women: agnus castus, dong quai, and black cohosh. It is only available in the UK from Victoria Health, on 0800-413596.