Lifestyle and stress exaggerate the symptoms of PMS

Stress levels

There is a healthy amount of stress we usually think of as excitement! There is also an unhealthy amount of stress, excessive stress over a prolonged period which can lead to ill health.

Stress levels go up and down as we cope with our day to day lives - work, shopping, looking after our families, going to new places, new social activites. However some events are excessively stressful and can effect our health and sense of well-being. These are major events such as a change of job, bereavement and moving house.

Women in particular can experience an exaggeration of the symptoms of Pre-menstrual Syndrome (PMS) when stress levels are high.

Stress management

Identify what situations you find most stressful and try to avoid these or, if this is not possible, take time to relax and de-stress at every opportunity.

Changing your mood can be as easy as changing the scene - walk away rather than confront. Simply pausing to make a hot drink, or taking a few deep slow breaths can make a difference to your stress levels.

Diet affects your mood and ability to cope. If you are hungry and your blood sugar is low, you are less able to deal with stressful situations. It is essential to eat regularly and ensure a balanced diet. Foods you prepare yourself are usually healthier than 'fast food' or ready prepared foods you can buy in a supermarket.

Stress management should include making an effort to eat a healthy diet. Try to limit fried foods, pastry, dairy produce and red meat. Also try limiting your caffeine and salt intake. Avoid dehydration - drink water and fruit juice in preference to tea and coffee which are diuretics as well as stimulants. Avoid those artificially high sugary foods which are not necessary and can be detrimental to health if eaten instead of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Sleep reduces anxiety and boosts energy levels. If you have lost sleep, try make it up. Although we can funtion with only 4 hours sleep a night, most people function better with an average of 8 hours. We cope better with stressful situations after a good night's sleep.

Good health and a lifestyle free from excessive stress promotes feelings of optimism and a sense of well-being.