Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (304 page)

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Use a complete superfood such as spirulina, wild blue-green algae, or chlorella. Blend it into a smoothie. You should increase the intake of these superfoods as your period approaches.

Take the herb milk thistle before and during menstruation. Silymarin contains some of the most potent liver-protecting and liver-stimulating substances known.

PMS has been linked to faulty liver fat metabolism. So sprinkling a tablespoon of lecithin granules onto salads or putting some into a smoothie a few days each week until you see a difference in symptoms is well worth the effort.

The following herbs may be helpful if taken a couple of days before and during menstruation: agnus castus for breast pain; angelica cong quai for cramps; cramp bark for abdominal discomfort; licorice for water retention; black cohosh for fibroids.

Decongest your liver with lipotropic agents. A good lipotropic formula should consist of choline, methionine, and/or cysteine.

Take zinc citrate and magnesium. Zinc is important because it helps to normalize hormones, especially prolactin.

Increase your intake of B vitamins, including B
₆
(a magnesium deficiency can lead to decreased B vitamin activity). They are important for energy, mood, digestion, and water balance. Do not use isolated B
₆
; take it with a B complex or with botanical royal jelly.

Vitamin A has been shown to reduce PMS symptoms. Take it in beta-carotene form.

Vitamin E helps to regulate hormone levels.

Take flax oil, primrose oil, or borage oil daily. Women with menstrual problems have been shown to exhibit essential fatty acid abnormalities.

EXTRA TIPS

Regular, moderate exercise throughout the month helps to regulate hormones, remove toxins, enhance nutrient absorption, strengthen the organs, and ultimately lessen PMS symptoms.