Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, occurs about one week before a woman's menstrual cycle and ends when she gets her period. Three out of four menstruating women experience signs of PMS, which include mood swings, bloating, depression and breast tenderness. MayoClinic.com states that the condition peaks when a woman is in her late 20s and early 30s. Calcium and magnesium are two dietary supplements often recommended to treat PMS.
Calcium Benefits
According to FamilyDoctor.org, calcium pills may decrease PMS symptoms such as water retention, back pain and abdominal cramps. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports a recent study reduced PMS symptoms in 50 percent of women taking 1,200 mg of calcium daily. Calcium has additional benefits not related to PMS, including bone strengthening and aiding in body systems working properly. The Mayo Clinic recommends that women should consume about 1,200 mg of calcium daily.
Magnesium Benefits
Magnesium aids in the absorption of calcium, but it also may prevent symptoms of PMS. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that magnesium may relieve PMS symptoms including bloating, insomnia, weight gain and breast tenderness. WomensHealth.gov recommends 400 mg of magnesium to relieve symptoms of PMS. This is slightly higher than the recommended daily dose of magnesium, so talk to your health care provider when taking any large doses of dietary supplements. Effective results may not be seen for two to three months.
Considerations
It is important to take calcium in doses no greater than 500 mg at a time, since your body cannot absorb more than that at one given time. Taking 400 mg three times a day with meals is encouraged. When taking calcium supplements, drink six to eight cups of water to prevent constipation. Women who have heart of kidney complications should not take a magnesium supplement.
Additional Vitamins and Minerals
Additional vitamins and minerals are sometimes recommended to treat PMS, but further research is needed. Vitamins B6 and E are often recommended to PMS patients, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, may take several months to work. Vitamin E may increase your risk of internal bleeding. Higher doses than the recommended daily allowance is advised to treat PMS. Always speak to a medical professional before taking dietary supplements in higher than normal amounts.
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