PMS mood foods

Photo Credit: usdoctor.com

I’d swap the three c’s of PMS for the three c’s of diamonds any day. cut, clarity and carat sounds far more enticing than crankiness, cravings and cramps, no? I know I’m not alone in the ugly emotional and physical battle that affects up to 40 percent of women. my arsenal of PMS weapons usually consists of over the counter remedies and an occasional heating pad for the really bad days. I’ve heard temporary diet changes have been known to improve PMS symptoms but usually I’m too cranky, irritable and bloated to focus on my diet at that time.

Photo Credit: pms-symptoms.net

seems the remedy is to make diet changes during the two weeks before you start menstruating to ease those agonizing symptoms. I might have to start sooner than that because the crankies kick in about two weeks beforehand, so a head start is definitely necessary.

here are some food suggestions for taming the ugly PMS mood:

symptom: Anxiety

Photo Credit: jacksoncoffeeandgelato.com

remedy: Switch out caf for decaf. Caffeine causes the brain to produce a chemical that raises the heart rate. Switching to caffeine-free versions of your favorite beverages (coffee, teas, soda) will help to put the kibosh on anxiety and nervousness.

symptom: Moodiness

remedy: Go virgin. Liquor is actually a depressant so alter after-work happy hours by indulging in nonalcoholic beverages only. Try a little juice, seltzer and grenadine instead.

Photo Credit:greathomeremedies.com

symptom: Bloating

Photo Credit: hudakhealth.blogspot.com

remedy: More h20 and less salt. Dehydration makes you tired but water helps to energize. Now is the time to up the water ante to 8-12 8oz glasses each day. Too bland? Add a lemon. Not enough? Try spa water by adding sliced cucumbers and watermelons. It’s sooo good, and really refreshing.

symptom: Cravings

Photo Credit: userealbutter.com

remedy: Mood swings and increased stress often lead to sweet cravings. Increasing calcium intake can balance your appetite and reduce the moodiness, stress and cravings. Keep in mind, calcium can be found in more than just dairy sources; tofu, figs and leafy greens such as kale are excellent sources of calcium.

symptom: Breast Tenderness

remedy: Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids increase inflammation-fighting prostaglandins to help ease swelling. Salmon is a wonderful source of omega-3 fatty acids. Slicing avocados to use in place of sandwich mayo is another great source too.

Photo Credit: northwest-seafood.com

Here’s to feeling better when aunt flow visits! 🙂

2 comments on “PMS mood foods”

1. GiGi Eats Celebrities

   January 27, 2012

   

   I was going to mention omega-3 fatty acids but you listed them! Salmon and the rest of the fatty fishy gang are wonder foods! They whoop PMSes ass!

   http://www.gigieatscelebrities.com

   Reply
   • suite7beautytalk

     January 27, 2012

     

     Thanks GiGi! I’m starting to love Salmon & all its benefits. I’ve been eating canned wild alaskan for some time. A bout with food poisoning from scallops has made me hesitant to eat cooked seafood again but I’m getting there.

     Reply

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