Preventing PMS with calcium and vitamin D

Eating foods rich in vitamin D and calcium can help ward off symptoms of PMS, according to a study of thousands of women aged 27 to 44. Several previous smaller trials also found that calcium supplements can help treat PMS symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, stomach cramps and mood swings. In the new study, researchers examined dietary information from almost 3,000 women; the study results showed that those who consumed the most milk, yogurt, cheese, spinach and other calcium and vitamin D-rich foods and supplements were up to 41 percent less likely to experience PMS. These women consumed about 1,200 milligrams of calcium and 400 IU of vitamin D from food sources. Since calcium and vitamin D also reduce the risk of osteoporosis and some cancers, the researchers suggested that increasing intake of these two nutrients would be beneficial.

Archives of Internal Medicine,
June 2005