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By the Staff at
Tao of Wellness
Premenstrual syndrome” (PMS) is the cyclic recurrence of a group of
symptoms that peak 7 to 10 days before menstruation and disappear a few hours
after the onset of the menstrual flow. This condition is characterized by
multiple and diverse symptoms including, but not limited to: breast tenderness,
transient weight gain, bloating, constipation, insomnia, acne, headache, pelvic
pain, irritability, depression, mood swings, poor concentration, confusion,
social withdrawal, impulsiveness and appetite changes. While many women
experience mild symptoms of short duration, other women have more severe
symptoms that last for many days and temporarily disturb their normal
functioning.
PMS is due to unbalanced hormonal fluctuations. A mixture of correct diet,
adequate exercise, and emotional clarity, along with acupuncture and Chinese
medicinal herbs can correct imbalances and bring long-term relief.
Balanced nutrition is crucial for overcoming PMS. Certain foods such as alcohol,
caffeine, cold temperature foods, sugar, salt, and animal fats exacerbate
symptoms of PMS and should be avoided. In addition, commercial red meats and
poultry, which have a residue of steroids composed of female animal sex
hormones, should be eliminated from the diet. Food necessary for a harmonious
menstrual cycle include: plenty of organic vegetables, small amounts of fruit,
whole grains, legumes (especially soy), seaweed, small amounts of lean
hormone-free meats, and fish (especially salmon, tuna, trout, and mackerel).
Exercise plays an important role in the treatment of PMS. Thirty to forty-five
minutes of cardiovascular exercise at least three times per week improves blood
circulation and significantly helps reduce symptoms.
In addition to diet and exercise, some form of meditation can be very helpful.
Our emotions and hormones influence each other, since they are registered in the
same part of our brain. Stress can cause hormonal imbalances and therefore
worsen the symptoms of PMS. Some quiet time everyday helps bring emotional and
physical equilibrium.
Chinese medicine offers even more tools to address premenstrual syndrome.
Acupuncture removes energy blockages and in turn stabilizes hormonal
fluctuations. It also provides deep relaxation that helps to calm the mind.
Chinese herbs work together with acupuncture to regulate the flow of energy and
substances in the body. Together they stimulate the body’s natural functions and
encourage it to establish optimum balance.
Women do not have to accept and live with premenstrual syndrome. When the
symptoms of PMS are reduced or eliminated, women feel more energetic --
physically, mentally, emotionally and creatively. |
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