Treating PMS & PMDD with Acupuncture and Diet

PMDD, also known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, is a severe form of PMS which is often accompanied by severe mental health symptoms. PMS and PMDD follow a cyclical pattern which occurs sometime in the luteal phase (the time between ovulation and the onset of menses.)

The symptoms of PMDD can be similar to normal PMS, but they are more intense and severe, especially the emotional symptoms.

Typical symptoms include:

• anxiety

• severe mood swings

• depression

• panic attacks

• fatigue

• sleep disturbances

Sufferers of PMDD are most often diagnosed antidepressants (SSRI’s) and/or contraceptive pills to regulate hormones. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are also ways to get symptoms of PMS and PMDD under control.

Treating PMS and PMDD with Acupuncture

Because Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes a holistic approach to health, we identify the imbalance, which for PMS and PMDD is generally between the Liver and Spleen in our terms. Using acupuncture we work to bring the body back into balance allowing the free movement of Qi and Blood. Most likely lifestyle and dietary changes will be suggested by your acupuncturist to also alleviate symptoms.

TCM Nutritional Tips For PMS & PMDD

• Eliminate foods such as dairy, fatty, spicy, and fried foods

  Greasy and fatty foods can be taxing to the Liver and dairy can create inflammation in the body. Spicy foods can exacerbate symptoms by adding too much heat to the body.

• Eat Sour Foods

  Lemon or apple cider vinegar in water daily

  Lime

  Sauerkraut

  Grapefruit

  Pickles

  Yogurt

• Consume Foods That Are Bitter

  Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower

  Dandelion Leaf

  Milk Thistle

  Arugula

  Mustard Greens

  Green Tea

  Collard Greens

• Eat Foods Rich In Iodine

  Seaweed

  Fish

  Eggs

  Chicken

  Kelp

  Shellfish

  Yogurt