| product to help treat PMS is Evening Primrose Oil (EPO). EPO is a good source of gamma linoleic acid (GLA). GLA is used by the body to make a hormone called prostaglandin E1. A deficiency of this hormone has been observed in women who suffer from PMS. It is thought that EPO may help to increase prostaglandin E1 in the body; at least this is the theory. EPO has been shown to reduce the breast pain associated with PMS, but it hasn’t been shown to be very effective in relieving the other symptoms. Despite these findings, I have some patients who say that they find relief when they take EPO just before and after their monthly periods. Others need to take it on a regular basis for several months before they notice a benefit. |
. .. Potential side effects of Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) use include stomach upset and headaches. People who take prescription blood thinning medication should avoid taking EPO. Also, people with schizophrenia, who have been taking phenothiazine drugs, have reported seizures while using evening primrose oil. The usual dose is 4-6 grams of the oil daily. Ask your Peoples Pharmacist if evening primrose oil is right for you.
. .. Taking calcium on a regular basis has also been shown to be helpful for alleviating the symptoms of PMS. Dose of 1000mg per day, for several months, is required to notice a benefit. If not helpful for PMS symptoms, it is still a good idea to help with the prevention of osteoporosis, a major |
health concern for many women.
. .. I hear this question at least once a month, “What really works for weight loss?” Sadly, I have to tell you the truth. There is no miracle pill for weight loss. It is believed that 48% of our population is overweight. We all know that carrying a few extra pounds can cause health problems including; heart disease, diabetes, joint problems, sleep apnea and more. Unfortunately, the primary reason people try to loss weight is purely cosmetic. Any reason to attain your ideal weight is a good reason, but solutions that are focused on, by the cosmetically minded usually involve shortcuts and don't result in long term 'results'.
. .. There is one new supplement on
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