The Root Cause of PMS
Being a woman in today's society is a complex journey filled with challenges, personal growth, and emotional experiences. From the moment we are born, we are faced with societal expectations and norms that often dictate how we should behave, serve, and remain quiet and content. The world around us consistently bombards us with a distorted and unrealistic image of the "ideal woman," placing immense pressure on us to conform and fit into predefined roles.
The ever-changing nature of our hormones adds an additional layer of complexity to our lives. These hormones influence our physical bodies, energy levels, self-perception, and how we relate to others.
As women, we often find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities and tasks, constantly striving to meet the demands of both our personal and professional lives. Despite these challenges, being a woman also offers us unique perspectives, strengths, and the power to create positive change in the world around us. It is through our shared experiences and collective resilience that we continue to redefine societal expectations.
As a women's health naturopath, nutritionist and herbalist, I have worked with many women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS is a condition that affects many women and can cause a range of symptoms, including mood swings, bloating, headaches, and fatigue. In my experience, the root cause of PMS can vary from person to person, but there are some common factors that can contribute to the condition.
One of the most common causes of PMS is hormonal imbalances. During the menstrual cycle, the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body fluctuate, and if these fluctuations are not balanced, it can lead to PMS symptoms. Other factors that can contribute to hormonal imbalances include stress, poor diet, lack of exercise and sleep, and exposure to environmental toxins.
Another common cause of PMS is nutrient deficiencies. Many women who suffer from PMS have low levels of important vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, b vitamins complex, calcium, iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are important for balancing hormones and reducing inflammation in the body.
To reduce the symptoms of PMS, there are several things that women can do. First, it is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in nutrients. This can include foods such as leafy green vegetables; vegetables from the brassica family such as broccoli, cauliflower, and Bok choi; whole grains; lean protein and fats. It is also important to stay hydrated and avoid too much caffeine and alcohol, which can exacerbate PMS symptoms.
Regular exercise can also help to reduce PMS symptoms. Exercise can help to balance hormones, reduce stress, and improve mood. Yoga and other mind-body practices can be particularly helpful for reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
A good night's sleep is important for hormonal health because it allows the body to produce and regulate hormones that are essential for overall well-being. Lack of sleep can disrupt the production of hormones such as melatonin, cortisol, and growth hormone, which can lead to imbalances and contribute to PMS symptoms.
Herbal remedies can be effective in reducing PMS symptoms. Some herbs that are commonly used for PMS include black cohosh, chaste tree, dong quai, Shatavari, St John’s Wort, and ginger. These herbs can help to balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and improve mood.
As a women's health naturopath, I believe in taking a holistic approach to managing PMS symptoms. By making simple dietary and lifestyle changes and incorporating natural remedies, women can reduce their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life. Remember, PMS is a common condition and there is no need to suffer in silence. With the right support and guidance, it is possible to manage PMS and live a happy, healthy life.
PMS is a common condition that affects many women. While the root cause of PMS can vary from person to person, there are several common factors that can contribute to the condition. By addressing hormonal imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and other lifestyle factors, women can reduce the symptoms of PMS and improve their overall well-being.
Book a free 15-minute discovery call to find out more about how I can help you as a naturopath - Click here to book!
Jordana Alba x