2. Pre-menstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
PMDD is a debilitating condition where a woman experiences severe pre-menstrual symptoms such as anger, depression, anxiety and/or loss of interest. It affects approximately 1 in 20 women and is much more intense than PMS.
Progesterone is usually a calming hormone for women, but for those that suffer from PMDD, it can cause a negative mood reaction. This can affect the GABA receptors in the brain as well as impacting serotonin levels causing severe mood swings, anxiety and depression in the Luteal phase.
You can’t experience PMDD when on contraceptive drugs, birth control or implants. Unfortunately, doctors will prescribe these or anti-depressants to modulate the GABA receptors which then cause a host of negative side effects including depletion of nutrients and osteoporosis.
If you are suffering from PMDD, Magnesium glycinate and vitamin B6 are natural ways to support a healthy GABA response and normalise the progesterone response to the central nervous system.
Vitamin B6 also promotes healthy clearing of histamine and lowers prolactin levels. When prolactin is high, it can also cause anxiety and depression as well as hot flushes, irregular cycles, milk discharge and weakening of the bones.
Tracking your menstrual cycle and your emotions consistently is a great way to understand your body better and identify any possible dysfunction that may be happening.
