What You Can Do
There are lots of ways to manage PMS. Even if you can’t totally fix it, it’s nice to know you have the power to help yourself. These ideas might help:
- Exercise about 30 minutes a day.
- Eat healthy foods like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
- Try to get enough calcium from foods (think dairy, green leafy vegetables, and canned salmon).
- Avoid salt, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Don’t smoke.
- Get plenty of sleep.
- Work to lower stress.
- Track your moods and symptoms in a journal.
- Try over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, or naproxen. Be sure to follow the dosing instructions exactly as it says on the label.
Some women take vitamins and minerals like folic acid, magnesium, vitamin B-6, vitamin E, and calcium with vitamin D. Others find that herbal remedies help. If you take any vitamins or supplements, check with your doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you.