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Which PMS Symptom Is Worst?
My PMS symptoms seem to be getting worse as I get older. Is it just me, or does your sore chest bother you when doing cardio too? Ugh.
PMDD: My Dirty Little Secret
Three years ago I was diagnosed with PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) — it's sort of like PMS on overdrive, except way worse. Before the diagnosis I was embarrassed at how unstable I felt as my period approached, especially when all of my girlfriends seemed to be handling their PMS symptoms in a manageable way.
My menstrual cycles were always preceded by feelings of severe depression, crying bouts, anxiety, fatigue, and extreme back pain that would disappear the day my period started.
A Day in the Life of the Fight Against PMS
If you're the type to eat yourself silly when your hormones are raging pre-cycle, you can use food as a weapon against PMS. You just need to strategize by eating right and making sure your meals contain vitamins and nutrients to alleviate the symptoms.
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Healthy Recipe: PMS Banana Oatmeal Cookies
When monthly moodiness strikes, I fight back with baking. Having fought the symptoms of PMS in the past by making a batch of banana muffins, I went to the kitchen to see if I could bake a cookie to ease my symptoms. I created a pretty healthy oatmeal cookie that you can eat relatively guilt-free when the craving strikes.
You Asked: Why Do I Get Back Pain During My Period?
Dear Fit,
During my period, I get very uncomfortable lower-back pain, like a dull ache. I used to think this was just me, but I recently spoke to another female friend who says she gets the same pain. I'm sure it has something to do with everything going on down there, since it often comes with cramps, but why exactly does this happen?
Another Reason to Exercise: Ease Menstrual Cramps
Cramps during that time of the month can be debilitating — so much so that the last thing you want to do is hit the gym.
One thing you should know is that exercise can actually help relieve those painful cramps. Here's WebMD's explanation:
Exercise relieves cramps because it helps release beta-endorphins, which are internal opioids -- your own “human morphine,” according to Gustavo Rossi, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Virginia Hospital Center in Arlington.
Speak Up: What's Your Crazy PMS Craving?
Recently I asked you about your favorite healthy snacks, and I was happy to see so many of you respond. Personally, I try hard to eat healthy most of the time, but when PMS strikes, it's hard for me to stay on track. I end up craving everything sweet and salty.
Eat Right to Help Fight PMS
Most women experience some sort of PMS, including moodiness, irritability, and depression. Those types of emotional maladies can be harder to treat than simply taking a pain reliever for your cramps, so last month I looked into some natural and herbal remedies to help you better deal with the monthly battle. We've heard that omega-3s can help with cramps, so let's explore how eating the right foods can also help fight mood-related PMS symptoms.
Got PMS? Try a Natural Remedy
Most women experience some sort of PMS, and certain symptoms can be easier to treat than others. Ibuprofen is great for cramps, and Midol can help with bloating, but battling PMS-related irritability or depression is more of a challenge.
I've been on the hunt for natural remedies, including vitamins and herbal supplements, that might help relieve my monthly moodiness.
Proven PMS Relief
The majority of us are held prisoner by PMS for at least part of the month. Relief may just come in a cocktail. No!
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