by R.L Hanlon

Created on: November 21, 2008   Last Updated: December 02, 2008

At one time or another, each of us has experienced a symptom of Premenstrual Syndrome or PMS as it is often called. Approximately a week before menstruation, common symptoms of PMS become evident through bloating, headaches, mood swings and feelings of aggression or depression.

Although we can't eliminate these symptoms, we can make changes to our diet that will help ease many symptoms that are associated with PMS.

The menstruation cycle and a woman's body rely on many complex hormones to allow it to function right. It is at the time of menstruation that these hormones contribute to the symptoms we associate with premenstrual syndrome. By eating foods that help balance these hormones, some of the symptoms can be eased.

FOODS THAT EASE BLOATING AND FLUID RETENTION

Bloating makes your abdomen feel full and tight. It is often usually accompanied with a belly that looks fatter and can be painful.

To ease the discomfort of bloating, avoid salt and salty foods around the time your PMS usually kicks in.

Another way to combat bloating associated with PMS is to consume more soy products such as tofu.

Foods that are rich in magnesium have also been discovered to help ease bloating, water retention and breast tenderness as magnesium relaxes muscles. Eat plenty of green vegetables including spinach, peas and beans and broccoli.

Other magnesium rich foods that you can snack on at this time include peanuts, peanut butter, other nuts and legumes.

FOODS TO EASE CRAMPING

Cramping is a common symptom associated with PMS and can be extremely uncomfortable for many women. No matter how you experience your cramping, there are some foods that will help ease this uncomfortable symptom.

Fresh green vegetables that have a high content of magnesium such as spinach and broccoli help ease cramps.

Foods that are high in calcium are also great for alleviating cramping associated with PMS. Eat plenty of dairy foods including milk, cheese, eggs and yogurt.

If you like bread and rice, try to consume only those made from whole wheat as this also helps relieve cramping.

Drinking chamomile tea will also help cramping as it relaxes the muscles.

FOODS TO EASE HEADACHE

The cause of headache during the time of PMS can be associated again with those wonderful things called hormones. During this time, try and avoid caffeine and sweet foods such as chocolate and other deserts. Eating too much red meat can also increase headaches at this time.

EASING YOUR MOODS AND IRRITABILITY

The imbalances of hormones are a factor that contributes the wild mood swings and feelings of fatigue, listlessness and depression during PMS. Foods to avoid include those that contain caffeine and alcohol, chocolate and other sweets as these contribute to mood swings and irritability.

Eating foods that are rich in calcium decrease irritability associated with PMS because calcium helps the brain to process serotonin that helps moods.

Eating foods rich in Vitamin B6 also help moods. These include banana, chicken, turkey, salmon and potatoes.

FOODS THAT WILL HELP BLEMISHES

Many of the skin complaints found caused by PMS are again associated with the changes in hormones. Consume plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and drink plenty of water. Eat foods that are rich in antioxidants such as blueberries and strawberries that help flush toxins from the body.

Although we cannot eliminate symptoms of PMS totally from our lives, we can help ease most of the symptoms through eating the correct foods. Incorporate the above foods into your diet so that PMS is no longer a problem in your life.

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