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Lower your Risk of PMS with these Actions

While the cause of PMS aka premenstrual syndrome has researchers and doctors scratching their heads, there are a number of risk factors that are common to the condition. Some of the risk factors are those you cannot control due to genetics and there are others that you can control. Knowing the risk factors in each faction can help you better understand PMS and how you can possible take charge of the symptoms to they do not take charge of you.

Factors you can control

The factors you can control all are tied in to your lifestyle and the choices you make. A poor diet is a major issue, especially when you have a deficiency in certain vitamins and minerals like calcium, vitamin D and vitamin B. Several studies have shown that calcium and vitamins D or B deficiency greatly contributes to some of the PMS symptoms and puts you at risk for osteoporosis too.

Caffeine can affect the chemicals and hormones secreted by the endocrine system such as estrogen and progesterone. It can also lower blood sugar which contributes to some of the symptoms like food cravings of salty foods or sweet foods. The domino effect of caffeine leads to aforementioned food cravings which further leads to water retention and bloating, a side effect of consuming salt.

Absence of exercise and appearance of stress both are risk factors of developing PMS. Exercise releases endorphins, a chemical that gives you a natural high and can reduce cramps and other symptoms. If you don't exercise this does not happen. As far as stress is concerned, many times your body manifests it in tight muscles, headaches and body pain. Add the hormonal factor and you have a recipe for PMS disaster.

Factors you cannot control

If your family displays a history of PMS, chances are you will get it at some point as well. There is no cure or definitive treatment for it. The older you get, the more intense PMS tends to get. As you cannot hold back Father Time, you have to suffer through an increase in symptoms. Also, if you have had previous emotional or mental health problems, you are much more susceptible to PMS. Anxiety and panic disorders can exacerbate symptoms as can depression and bipolar disorder. PMS can intensify these mental health conditions.

Luckily, there are quite a few anti-depressants out on the market that not only work for a variety of mental health issues but also PMS as well. If you could get a handle on the anxiety, depression or other condition, there is less stress and PMS likely will not be magnified beyond reason. If there is a deficiency in vitamins or minerals, supplements are easy to find.

Overall, if you experience PMS symptoms, it would be beneficial for you to revamp your diet and include healthier choices that would boost your calcium and vitamins B and D. Exercise is important to burn off calories and holding back on caffeine and alcohol can make a huge impact (just wean away from caffeine slowly). Focus on the things you can control to lower PMS symptoms and hopefully the things you cannot control will improve.