Health Tip: Ease PMS Symptoms

Suggestions that may help you feel better

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(HealthDay News) -- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women before the start of the menstrual cycle. Symptoms can include moodiness, fatigue, insomnia, upset stomach, and joint and muscle pain, among others.

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The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers these suggestions to help alleviate PMS symptoms:

• Take a daily multivitamin with folic acid, and a calcium supplement with vitamin D.
• Get plenty of exercise.
• Stick to a healthy diet, including lots of whole grains, fruits and vegetables, before and during your period.
• Avoid salt, sugar, caffeine, alcohol and smoking, especially when you have PMS symptoms.
• Try to get eight hours of sleep every night.
• Alleviate stress by talking to friends, exercising or keeping a journal.
• Try an over-the-counter pain reliever to ease sore breasts, muscle pain, headaches or painful cramps.

-- Diana Kohnle