Dietary deficiencies: causes and conventional treatment

Dietary deficiencies and their affect on health and fertility

A lack of the vitamins and minerals found in food can be the cause of many of the PMS symptoms and can be corrected if recognised. It is important to eat a balanced diet, including a variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, if optimum health and fertility is to be achieved.

Vitamin B6

This vitamin is essential for maintaining the health of the nervous system and controlling the production of certain hormones in the body. A daily supplement of 50 to 100mg can be safely taken. However, some consideration should be given to keeping a balance of the B vitamins, and therefore a B-complex or B-complete supplement may be preferable.

Fatty acids

These are essential for the production of Prostaglandins which regulate the menstrual cycle. Regular consumption of oily fish, fresh unroasted nuts (stored in a cool place), natural unheated cold-pressed oil (eg virgin olive oil, kept cool or in the fridge, on salads) can help levels. A daily supplement of 500mg Evening Primrose Oil capsules is recommended.

Magnesium and Calcium

Magnesium combined with calcium has a natural calming and pain relieving effect on the body. Deficiency caused by stress and poor diet can lead to an inability to relax, insomnia, cramps and sensitivity to noise and pain.

The best sources are nuts, soya beans and green leafy vegetables (eg spinach, chard, broccoli). Foods such as fish, apples, bananas, apricots, wholegrain cereals and brown rice are also a source.

Calcium is added to many refined foods. A daily supplement of dolomite (a natural mineral) or multi-mineral can be taken. Magnesium supplements of 250mg can be taken daily. Vitamin D intake should also be adequate.