PMS/PMDD

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are hormonal conditions that impact millions of women, causing physical, emotional, and psychological distress in the luteal phase (the 1-2 weeks before menstruation). While PMS is common and includes mild to moderate symptoms, PMDD is a more severe form, leading to debilitating mood changes and physical symptoms that significantly affect daily life.

At Caring for the Body, we believe in addressing hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, and root causes to help women find natural, long-term relief from PMS and PMDD symptoms.

What Causes PMS & PMDD?

The exact cause of PMS and PMDD is unknown, but research suggests hormonal fluctuations, neurotransmitter imbalances, and lifestyle factors play a major role.

1. Hormonal Imbalances

• Estrogen dominance (excess estrogen relative to progesterone) contributes to bloating, mood swings, and weight gain.
• Low progesterone can lead to anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.
• High prolactin levels can cause breast tenderness and fluid retention.

2. Neurotransmitter Imbalances

• Low serotonin is linked to depression, irritability, and food cravings.
• Dopamine fluctuations impact mood, motivation, and energy levels.

3. Inflammation & Gut Health Issues

• Chronic inflammation worsens hormonal imbalances.
• Poor gut health can impair estrogen metabolism, leading to worsened PMS symptoms.

4. Stress & Cortisol Dysregulation

• Chronic stress depletes progesterone, leading to worsened PMDD symptoms.
• High cortisol levels cause blood sugar imbalances and mood instability.

5. Nutritional Deficiencies

• Low magnesium, vitamin B6, and omega-3s can contribute to PMS symptoms.
• Zinc and vitamin D deficiencies may worsen PMDD symptoms.

By addressing these underlying imbalances, women can experience dramatic improvements in PMS and PMDD symptoms.Common Symptoms of PMS & PMDDPhysical Symptoms:

• Bloating & fluid retention
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches & migraines
• Fatigue & low energy
• Joint & muscle pain
• Sugar cravings

Emotional & Mental Symptoms:

• PMS: Irritability, anxiety, mood swings, sadness
• PMDD: Severe depression, rage, suicidal thoughts, panic attacks
• Brain fog & poor concentration
• Insomnia or excessive sleep

If your symptoms interfere with daily life, relationships, or mental health, it's important to seek professional support.

‍A Functional Medicine Approach to PMS & PMDDAt Caring for the Body, we take a root-cause approach to PMS and PMDD by addressing:

‍1. Hormonal Balance & Cycle Regulation

• Bioidentical progesterone therapy to support hormonal balance
• Herbs like chasteberry (Vitex) to regulate estrogen and progesterone levels
• DIM (diindolylmethane) & Calcium D-Glucarate to help detoxify excess estrogen

2. Nutrition for PMS & PMDD

• Balancing blood sugar with whole foods and fiber
• Anti-inflammatory diet rich in leafy greens, omega-3s, and antioxidants
• Eliminating processed foods, caffeine, and refined sugars

3. Gut Health & Detoxification

• Probiotics & prebiotic-rich foods to support estrogen metabolism
• Liver-supporting foods (cruciferous vegetables, turmeric, and dandelion root)

4. Stress Management & Cortisol Balance

• Mindfulness, deep breathing, and yoga to reduce stress levels
• Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha & rhodiola to support adrenal function
• Prioritizing sleep (7-9 hours per night)

5. Targeted Nutritional Supplementation

• Magnesium glycinate for mood stabilization & cramps
• Vitamin B6 for neurotransmitter support
• Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation
• Zinc & vitamin D for hormone regulation

6. Exercise & Movement

• Low-impact cardio (walking, swimming, cycling) to support hormone balance
• Strength training to improve insulin sensitivity
• Avoiding excessive high-intensity workouts, which can worsen PMS symptoms

Holistic Treatments for PMDDWomen with PMDD may require additional therapeutic interventions to manage severe symptoms:

‍1. Neurotransmitter Support

• 5-HTP & L-tryptophan to boost serotonin levels naturally
• GABA-supporting herbs (lemon balm, valerian root) for anxiety relief

2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

• CBT has been shown to significantly improve mood stability in women with PMDD

3. Light Therapy & Circadian Rhythm Support

• Morning sunlight exposure can improve serotonin levels
• Blue light blocking at night supports melatonin production

4. Personalized Functional Medicine Care

• Comprehensive hormone testing to assess estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and thyroid function
• Metabolic and gut health assessments to identify inflammation and nutrient deficiencies

Take Control of Your Hormonal Health

‍PMS and PMDD are not just "normal" parts of being a woman—they are signs of hormonal imbalances that can be corrected.

At Caring for the Body, we provide:
✔ Comprehensive hormone & neurotransmitter testing
✔ Personalized nutrition & lifestyle plans
✔ Natural hormone-balancing therapies
✔ Targeted supplementation & stress management strategies
✔ Ongoing support to help you reclaim balance

‍If PMS or PMDD is affecting your life, don’t wait. Functional medicine offers real solutions to help you restore hormonal balance and feel your best.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief!