Premenstrual Syndrome, often referred to as PMS, is a condition that over 85% of women develop on a monthly basis. At one time, thought to be only in their heads, over the years it has been discovered that PMS is a very real condition and should not be taken lightly. Understanding PMS has been a battle, from the symptoms to the emotional and physical effects. In this blog, you can find a few tips to help you manage the symptoms of PMS in a healthy way.
Stay Active
Whether you live in Albuquerque or somewhere up north, it’s important to stay active to help with PMS symptoms. Many women find that aerobic exercise helps with the anxiety and depression that often accompanies PMS. It may also help to join a gym so that you can not only stay active but get to know other people as well. Being alone with PMS symptoms is never a good idea.
Make Changes to Your Diet
Salt is a flavor booster, but too much salt raises your blood pressure, so it’s better to avoid a ton of it when you’re PMSing. Up your intake of veggies, fruits, and healthy foods, while lowering your intake of salt, artificial sweeteners, sugar, and fat. Changing your diet can help in a number of ways, physically and emotionally. You’ll benefit from these changes to your diet not only during your monthly, but all month long as well.
Quit Smoking
If you’ve been looking for a reason to stop smoking, then you’ve found one. Women who smoke are twice as likely to have moderate to severe PMS symptoms every month. There are many reasons to stop smoking, but this is a major one. While there is no solid reason as to why smoking makes the symptoms worse, quitting is apt to help you have fewer symptoms or no symptoms at all.
Limit Your Alcohol and Caffeine Intake
You should consider limiting the amount of alcohol you drink during your period. Caffeine has also been known to make symptoms worse. This means you should avoid caffeinated coffee, hot chocolate, and tea. Switch to non-caffeinated herbal teas instead, as they have been known to help with PMS symptoms as well as limiting your caffeine intake. If you find that you need help cutting down on your alcohol and caffeine intake, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor to get help.
Try to Relax
While it’s easy to say, and much harder to do, relaxing is a great way to relieve PMS symptoms. PMS can leave you angry and tense, resulting in high-stress levels and worse physical symptoms. Try relaxing with a good book, a bubble bath, or even a professional massage to relieve your symptoms of stress. You’ll be surprised at how much just taking a break can help. Yoga, Tai Chi, meditation, and acupuncture have also been known to help with PMS symptoms.
Consider Therapy
If the tips above aren’t working for you and your PMS is still getting you way down every month, then it might be time to seek therapy. There are many therapists out there that can help you control the mental and emotional effects of PMS symptoms. Therapy and lifestyle changes have helped many women in the past, and it might help you as well.
These are just a few tips to help you deal with PMS symptoms so that you can get on with your daily life. As with any changes to your diet and routine, it’s best to consult your doctor before trying them.
Being Frugal with Your Money