PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME

PMS is caused by an imbalance in several different hormones and neurotransmitters including estrogen and progesterone and maybe thyroid, dopamine, serotonin and cortisol. In many women with PMS, estrogen dominance is the culprit. Estrogen dominance can be caused by a high intake of saturated fat and a low intake in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Fiber found in fruits, veggies (especially the cabbage family) and whole grains helps remove estrogen from the intestinal tract, so it does not get reabsorbed and over dominate other hormones like progesterone. Friendly bacteria like Lactobacillus found in some yogurts, also help in the removal of estrogen. Dr. Braga frequently measures the hormones and neurotransmitters involved in PMS and starts with the basics like diet, exercise, vitamins, minerals, amino acides and herbal medicines to rebalance a woman’s levels.