The true prevalence of PMS is unknown, but it has been estimated that it affects 15% of women of reproductive age in the United States.
A case-control study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition evaluated whether B vitamin intake from food sources had a reduction in PMS.
Dietary information from approximately 3,000 women was collected over a 10-year period.
The study authors observed a significantly lower risk of PMS in women with high intakes of thiamine and riboflavin (vitamin B1 and vitamin B2) from food sources.
The authors also concluded that food sources of B vitamins are well absorbed and are also naturally high in calcium and vitamin D - both of which are also beneficial in their role in preventing PMS.
Foods high in vitamin B1
- Wheat germ
- Rice germ
- Sardines
- Egg yolk
- Cheese
- Fortified foods
Foods high in vitamin B2
- Milk
- Dairy products
- Cereals
- Nuts
Do you suffer from the dreaded PMS?