Calcium may help relieve PMS symptoms. Pain, cramps, depression, anxiety and mood swings during PMS may all be minimized by ensuring your body has an adequate supply of calcium. It is now widely believed that a disruption in the body's ability to regulate calcium is an underlying factor in the development of PMS symptoms. The mechanism of exactly how calcium regulation changes throughout the menstrual cycle and why it causes PMS symptoms is still unknown.
We all know that calcium is vital for healthy, strong bones and teeth. Calcium is also required for nerve cell and muscle function. Disruption in calcium regulation leading to a limited availability for these cells during PMS may result in communication between the nerve cells in the brain that help regulate mood being more sluggish than it should. This may play a role in the depression, anxiety and mood swings typical of PMS. A lack of calcium availability for other nerve and even muscle cells throughout the body may leave us more susceptible to sensations of pain during PMS than usual.
Of course the best way to get your body's required fix of calcium is through dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese etc. Many vegetables also contain calcium. It's recommended that women consume at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day, not just during PMS, but every day. This translates to three to four glasses of milk, or three to four yogurts. If this isn't possible (you may not like milk, cheese or yogurt or may be dairy intolerant) then take high quality calcium supplements, not just before and during PMS, but as part of your everyday schedule.
