KEEPusHEALTHY

Health Issues for Women

 Women have many challenges from puberty through menopause and beyond.  Women are busy. Many have to juggle their professional lives with the responsibilities of raising a family and running a household, causing much stress. You can suggest slowing down, do less, sleep more, but for most of us, that is not an option.

PMS

• Definition-Cyclic symptoms that occur during the second half of the menstrual cycle. Symptoms resolve with menses.
• Statistics-Up to 80% of women report symptoms of PMS. 20 to 40% report these symptoms as significant.
• Conventional treatments-birth control, pain relievers, “water pills”, antidepressants – these may work, but have side-effects
• Typical symptoms-Over 100 have been attributed to PMS!
• Most common symptoms-mild mood changes/mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, food cravings, occasional gastric upset, skin changes.

Changes in diet and lifestyle can aleviate some of these symptoms. A diet that minimizes sugar and refined carbohydrates as well as saturated fat may be beneficial. It may also help to reduce caffeine and dairy products. Specialized nutrients and herbs can also help to reduce mild symptoms of PMS. Nutrition and herbs can help bolster energy (without stimulants), and support restful sleep. 

There are certain herbs and supplements that address the health needs of women in their reproductive years, who may be suffering discomfort of common PMS symptoms such as mild mood changes, water retention and cramps. and also support more restful sleep, calmness and an overall sense of well-being. Some of these have been in use for many years, and have been studied extensively, such as:

• Vitamin B6 - Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine has been used in the management of PMS symptoms for over 50 years. This essential nutrient is required for the manufacture of neurotransmitters – the hormones of the brain – like serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinepherine. Imbalances of these substances have been linked to PMS as well as to changes in mood throughout the month.
• Magnesium – Magnesium is an essential mineral that works together with B6. It also facilitates relaxation, and supports both bone and cardiovascular health.
• Folic Acid  – Folic acid is a very important nutrient for women. In pregnancy, it helps to support healthy development of the fetus. It also supports heart health, hormonal balance, production of neurotransmitters and normal synthesis of DNA.
• Vitamin E - Vitamin E is an antioxidant nutrient helps support heart health and general cellular health. Vitamin E has also been used for symptoms of PMS, especially fatigue, mood changes and breast tenderness.
• Evening Primrose Oil - EPO is a significant source of the essential fatty acids gamma linolenic acid (GLA). GLA help to promote healthy hormonal balance, and has also been studied to help reduce symptoms of PMS such as headache, irritable mood, breast tenderness and water retention.
• Dong Quai (225mg) – Chinese Angelica, also called Dang Gui, has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for the support of women’s health for centuries. Know as an herb that “tonifies the blood and regulates menses,” Dang Gui is most commonly paired with Bai Shao (White Peony) to support a healthy menstrual cycle. Some studies have also indicated that it support liver and immune health.
• White Peony (Bai Shao) – Bai Shao is a traditional Chinese herb that is frequently paired with Gang Gui for the support of healthy menstrual cycles.
• Vitex agnus castus - Chaste Berry Fruit supports hormonal balance and for symptoms of PMS and breast tenderness.
• Chamomille – Chamomille is a well-known nervine herb that promotes relaxation of muscles and helps to facilitate relaxation
•  Raspberry Leaf - A nutritive herb containing both vitamins and minerals, raspberry has long been used as a traditional tonic for young women in pregnancy and for PMS.
• Viburnum opulus - Also called “cramp bark” this herb has been used for centuries for female complaints like tension, anxiousness, and symptoms of PMS. The active ingredients help to relieve spasms.
• Taraxacum - Also called “Dandelion Root.” Taraxacum is an important herb for helping to support liver function and flow of bile. As all steroid hormones are processed by the liver, this helps to support health hormone metabolism and elimination. Taraxacum also acts as a mild diuretic, helping with symptoms of bloating and distention
• Silymarin - Milk thistle is perhaps the most important herb we know of for the support of liver health and function. Like taraxacum, this will help to support the normal metabolism of steroid hormones. Silymarin also acts as an antioxidant for the liver, and helps to support the digestive system.
• Dioscorea  – Also known as “Wild Yam” and “Mexican Yam.” The active ingredient in this herb is diosgenin, which has been shown to support healthy estrogen levels.
• Suma - This herb form Brazil has been used both as an adaptogen (a substance that helps the body deal with stress) and to support women’s health. It also supports a healthy immune system.
• Licorice root - Licorice root supports healthy balance between estrogen and progesterone. It also supports a healthy immune system.

Go here to find Supplements that address these challenges

CONTACT US: lorraine@keepushealthy.com