Although as many as four out of every 10 fertile women experience these symptoms either moderately or severely, until recently these women were afforded little help from conventional medicine.1,2 Based on their own experiences, however, many women have intuitively come to understand the importance of proper exercise, healthy diet, and reduction of stress in lessening the severity of their symptoms.

Clinical studies have uncovered a wide range of physiological imbalances that are believed to trigger or contribute to PMS symptoms. These include female sex hormone imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, imbalances in fatty acid metabolism, yeast overgrowth, thyroid dysfunction, glucose/insulin dysregulation, and disruptions of the body's natural circadian rhythms.

Because of its diverse etiologies, and because symptoms are so varied among women, some researchers have attempted to categorize PMS into different types, each with its own specific causal factors. These classifications are not necessarily consistent among experts, however, and perhaps the wisest approach is to realize that a number of functional imbalances--especially in conjunction with each other--may trigger or exacerbate PMS in its different forms, as well as create other health problems. However, detecting these imbalances early can allow women to alleviate some symptoms of PMS. For more information click on the links below:

PMS and Female Sex Hormones: The symptoms of PMS correlate with specific menstrual cycle changes modulated by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone.

PMS and Essential Fatty Acids: Fatty acid imbalances have been linked to many symptoms of PMS including fluid retention and depression.

PMS and Adrenal Stress Hormones: Physical or emotional stress may greatly exacerbate PMS.

PMS and Candida Syndrome: Some researchers have proposed that PMS develops when Candida albicans overgrowth impairs the immune system.

PMS and Melatonin Imbalances: PMS can disrupt the body's natural circadian rhythm and interfere with a healthy sleep cycle.

PMS and Elemental Imbalances: Recent studies have linked mineral deficiciencies of calcium and magnesium with the development of PMS.

PMS and Amino Acids: Vitamin B deficiency or tryptophan imbalances may trigger PMS irritability and depression.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealthinstitute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.

References
1 Lurie S, Borenstein R. The premenstrual syndrome. Obstet Gynecol Surv 1990;45(4):220-8.
2 Seippel L, Backstrom T. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism 1998;83(6):1988-1993.