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Study, 2021

How do food choices and supplements affect PMS symptoms?

Certain vitamins and minerals appear to reduce PMS symptoms based on reviewed research. Vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, and omega-3 were identified as potentially helpful.

Moderate study design Literature review (not a study of specific people)

What they did

Researchers reviewed existing studies and information about how eating behavior and supplements affect PMS. They searched online databases and published literature.

What they found

Hormone changes during the menstrual cycle influence cravings for sweets and carbohydrates. Vitamin B6 may reduce swelling, irritability, depression, headache, breast swelling, constipation, and gas. Calcium may reduce mood changes, headaches, body pain, and swelling. Magnesium supports brain neurotransmitter production, with 200 mg per day mentioned as potentially helpful. Omega-3 may help with period pain.

What it means for you

Vitamins and minerals might be worth trying for PMS, though more direct testing is needed. This is a review of existing research, not a new study of specific people.

200

mg magnesium per day mentioned

About the study

Original title
A influência do comportamento alimentar e a utilização dos compostos bioativos na síndrome pré-menstrual / The influence of eating behavior and the use of bioactive compounds in premenstrual syndrome
Authors
Thainá da Silva Guedes, Valéria Lopes de Alcântara Silva, José Carlos de Sales Ferreira
Journal
Brazilian Journal of Development
Year
2021
Study design
Study
Open access
Yes

Topics