PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, describes a constellation of physical and mood symptoms that occur just before menstruation, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, or ACOG. Bloating is just one common and bothersome symptom. There are several supplements that may help ease bloating but they are mostly unproven and may carry risks. Talk to your doctor before using supplements to treat PMS bloating.
Magnesium
Magnesium may help reduce the water retention that causes bloating, as well as breast tenderness and sometimes mood changes, according to ACOG. The suggested dose is 400 mg daily, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC. Taking high doses of magnesium can cause side effects, however, including low blood pressure and diarrhea. Consult your doctor before taking magnesium supplements for PMS bloating.
Dandelion
Dandelion herb may help reduce the fluid retention that causes bloating. You can make a tea from the leaves or you can use 5 to 10 mL of a leaf tincture, two or three times a day. Dandelion causes an allergic reaction in some, particularly if you are allergic to ragweed. It can also interact with other medications like lithium and antibiotics, causing side effects such as weakening the effect of your prescription. Talk to your doctor before taking dandelion.
Homeopathic Remedies
There are some homeopathic remedies that claim to treat bloating among other PMS symptoms, according to UMMC. A homeopath may offer lycopodium, lachesis, pulsatilla or sepia for bloating, depending on his assessment of your needs. But there is too little research evidence on homeopathic remedies to know if they work and there is also little known about the safety of these remedies, according to UMMC. Talk to your doctor before trying a homeopathic remedy.
Other Supplements
There are a number of other supplements used to treat PMS symptoms that may offer you some relief though they do not target bloating specifically, according to UMMC. The best evidence supports calcium supplements, which when taken each day reduce the physical and mood symptoms of PMS, according to ACOG. But vitamin B-6, evening primrose oil and omega-3 fatty acids might also help. However, there is very little evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness and they may carry risks, according to "The New York Times." Talk to your doctor before trying these supplements.
