How PMS and the ECS May Affect Your Mood

We have all experienced some form of moodiness or some kind of irritability during that time of the month! It is natural and normal to feel a little more sensitive during the days leading up to your period. That said, you are not alone. Most women experience moodiness and irritability during PMS. In this article, we will talk a little about how PMS can affect our moods, correlating it to our endocannabinoid system and discuss some natural activities or remedies that you can try today to help with these symptoms. Let’s take a moment to relax and take care of ourselves, whether that means taking a warm bath, going for a walk, or doing something else that brings you joy and comfort!

PMS and your mood

Premenstrual syndrome (or PMS) is a collection of symptoms that affect many women in the days leading up to their menstrual cycle. These symptoms can include physical discomfort, most common ones being cramps and bloating, as well as emotional symptoms like mood swings, stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness.

Amongst many posible reasons as to why you feel the way you feel during PMS, there is another posible cause that is lesser known and talked about in the women’s health community. This possible cause can be an imbalance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS). What is the ECS? The ECS is responsible for many major bodily functions that occur on a daily basis. This can be regulating your appetite, the controlling of pain perception, mood fluctuations, controlling your sleep-wake cycle and more. The ECS is located in almost all your vital organs. Simply put, the ECS is a network of receptors and chemicals that work together to keep the body in the balance. When there is an imbalance in the ECS, it can lead to a variety of symptoms, including those associated with PMS.

Stress and anxiety are two of the most common symptoms of PMS when it comes to emotional status. Stress and anxiety can be caused by a number of factors, including hormonal imbalances, work or relationship problems, and lack of sleep. Stress and anxiety can further exacerbate the symptoms of PMS by increasing inflammation in the body and disrupting the balance. A ECS that in not functioning may also mean more stress and anxiety. 

Sleeplessness is another common symptom of PMS. Hormonal changes and ECS dysfunction that occur during the menstrual cycle can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep, leading to fatigue and irritability during the day. And of course, lack of sleep can also exacerbate other PMS symptoms, such as stress and anxiety. Not getting your beauty sleep is something that might very likely affect your mood and general wellbeing. Have a look at our other article on tips to getting your beauty sleep here!

Natural remedies and activities for you to try

There are a number of natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms of PMS. Plant-based diets, for example, have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation and balancing the ECS. Eating a diet rich in vitamins, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can provide the body with the nutrients it needs to help the body and ECS to function properly.

Exercise is another effective natural remedy for PMS. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and promote a healthy balance in the ECS. Yoga, for example, is a gentle form of exercise that can help reduce tension and stress while promoting relaxation. It is said that Yoga might even be the best practice for helping alleviate mood and even painful PMS symptoms.

Dietary supplements may also be of some help towards reducing stress and anxiety. Our top picks are always: Vitamin B6, magnesium, vitex agnus castus (or chasteberry), Turmeric and peppermint teas. All of these will help you relax and evening bring some alleviation.

Our favourite however is illumis – PMS Formula. Illumis is a unique and proven natural formula that has been scientifically developed for PMS relief. The formula includes 4 different natural ingredients that work together to enhance their alleviating properties. It targets different part of your body (including the brain) through the endocannabinoid system (ECS) to help alleviate most emotional and physical symptoms that come with PMS. Read more about illumis – PMS Formula here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PMS is a collection of symptoms that can affect many women in the days leading up to their menstrual cycle. These symptoms can include physical discomfort, such as cramps and bloating, as well as emotional symptoms like mood swings, stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness. An imbalance in the endocannabinoid system (ECS), stress, and lack of sleep may be part of wha is causing these symptoms. However, a plant-based diet and regular exercise can be effective natural remedies to alleviate these symptoms. It is important to note that no dietary supplement nor over-the-counter drug can replace a healthy diet or a daily routine of exercise. If you ever felt the need to try a new type of supplement, it is alway recommendable to consult with your trusted health practitioner.

References:

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• Connolly, M. (2001). Premenstrual syndrome: An update on definitions, diagnosis and management. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment, 7(6), 469-477. doi:10.1192/apt.7.6.469
• C. H. Ashton, P. B. Moore (2011). Endocannabinoid system dysfunction in mood and related disorders
• Rad M, Sabzevary MT, Dehnavi ZM. Factors associated with premenstrual syndrome in Female High School Students. J Educ Health Promot. 2018 May 3;7:64.
• Vaghela N, Mishra D, Sheth M, Dani VB. To compare the effects of aerobic exercise and yoga on Premenstrual syndrome. J Educ Health Promot. 2019 Oct 24;8:199.