If you’re a woman who experiences premenstrual syndrome (PMS), you’re aware of how challenging it can be. PMS affects 80% of women globally and can cause a host of physical and emotional symptoms, including bloating, fatigue, and significant mood changes.
These mood changes — which can range from mild irritability to more severe bouts of depression or anxiety — can disrupt your everyday life, relationships, and overall mental well-being. However, as widespread as these symptoms may be, they’re often overlooked or misunderstood by modern medicine.
This article sheds light on the under-discussed but important topic of PMS-related mood changes. Learn more about what causes these emotional symptoms, and, more importantly, discover practical strategies for managing them effectively, from FLO PMS vitamins to lifestyle changes.
What Are PMS Mood Changes?
PMS is a series of symptoms that women experience about a week or two before their menstrual cycle, symptoms that often, unfortunately, cut deeper than cramps or bloating. Emotional symptoms are just as prevalent, if not more, but unfortunately, they’re not discussed quite as often.
Women may experience varying emotional symptoms, including sadness, anxiety, mood swings, angry outbursts, or inexplicably find themselves on the verge of tears. The more extreme cases can feel like an emotional sledgehammer, causing severe depression and anxiety.
These mood changes often occur due to hormonal changes and shifts. As estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate during your cycle, they affect your mood neurotransmitters — serotonin and dopamine — leading to emotional upheavals.
Can Nutrition Affect PMS Symptoms?
Did you know that what you eat can play a significant role in the intensity of your PMS mood swings? There’s a strong association between your diet and your hormonal balance.
That tub of ice cream might seem like the perfect companion for your gloomy evenings, but over time, it may actually worsen your mood swings. Sugar highs and caffeine jitters can leave you feeling more irritable and anxious.
When you consider nutrition, think about more than just avoiding the temptation of indulging your sweet tooth during that time of the month. Instead, you’ll want to focus on holistic, nutritious food that your body truly needs. Colorful fruits and veggies, lean proteins, complex carbs, and nuts are not only deeply appetizing but can also help balance your hormones.
How Can PMS Vitamins Help?
PMS vitamins are essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs, especially during that time of the month. These vitamins pack an impressive punch against PMS mood changes.
The star players in the PMS vitamins are Vitamin B6, chasteberry, dong quai, and lemon balm. Vitamin B6 is known for its mood-lifting properties, helping produce serotonin — your happy hormone. Studies indicate that a sufficient amount of B6 in your diet can aid in managing PMS symptoms and boost mood.
Chasteberry supports a healthy attitude as well, and lemon balm is known to be calming (in addition to assisting with cramps). Meanwhile, helpers like dong quai are used more for physical symptoms, like those aforementioned cramps, due to its reputation as an antispasmodic.
What Are Other Ways To Address PMS Mood Changes?
PMS vitamins can be very effective, but you shouldn’t overlook other effective strategies to manage these emotional roller coasters, starting with regular physical activity. Sure, when battling hormones, hitting the treadmill may be the last thing on your mind, but exercising releases endorphins.
Known as natural mood lifters, these can make you feel calmer, happier, and more relaxed.
You also want to consider emotional support: Don’t underestimate the power of conversation. Sharing your feelings with someone who understands can be an immediate mood lifter. Remember, half the world goes through the same.
Stress management is also important. Practices like yoga, mindfulness, or even a simple deep-breathing session can do wonders to manage your mood swings. These techniques help reduce stress, elevate your mood, and provide a comfortable space to navigate through your PMS.
Taking Charge of Your PMS Mood Changes
PMS may seem like an inevitable storm each month, but it’s certainly not unbeatable. Proper nutrition, PMS vitamins, regular exercise, stress management, and quality time with loved ones can all play a role in managing your PMS.
Remember, it’s perfectly okay to have mood swings — it happens to everyone! What’s important to remember, however, is how to identify these symptoms and take steps to care for yourself. After all, the only person who can take the best care of you is you! Conquer PMS challenges with confidence and peace of mind this month.
