There was a time
when many health professionals did not take premenstrual syndrome, or PMS,
seriously. Fortunately, those days are gone and there is medical agreement that
PMS affects many women just before their menstrual cycles. Common symptoms
include cramps, bloating, fatigue, and moodiness. For some women, the symptoms
can be severe and medication is necessary, but for others, certain lifestyle
measures can make a big difference. The U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services actually has reviewed studies and came up with the following
suggestions including getting regular exercise, eating plenty of fruits,
vegetables and whole grains, and avoiding foods high in salt, sugar, caffeine,
and alcohol. Another big step is to get plenty of sleep. That can make a major
difference. The key, of course, is to figure out what you’re doing and to try
to make sure you get the attention.
