For many women, PMS (premenstrual syndrome) feels like a dreaded monthly visitor. Mood swings, bloating, cramps, fatigue, cravings—it’s so common that it’s often considered normal. But here’s the truth: just because something is common doesn’t mean it’s normal.

From a Functional Medicine perspective, PMS is a signal—your body’s way of saying something is out of balance. And when we listen to those signals, we can uncover root causes and restore harmony.

Why PMS Happens

PMS isn’t random. It’s often tied to:

• Hormone imbalances: Too much estrogen, not enough progesterone, or poor hormone metabolism in the liver can trigger PMS.
• Blood sugar swings: Unstable blood sugar makes mood changes and cravings worse.
• Nutrient deficiencies: Low magnesium, B vitamins, or omega-3s can intensify cramps and fatigue.
• Gut health issues: An unhealthy microbiome (sometimes called “estrobolome” when referring to estrogen metabolism) can affect how your body processes hormones.
• Stress and adrenal fatigue: Cortisol imbalance disrupts the delicate dance of reproductive hormones.

What “Normal” Should Look Like

A healthy period shouldn’t be something you dread. Mild shifts in energy or mood can be expected, but they shouldn’t be debilitating. You should be able to carry on with your daily life without relying on painkillers or bracing for emotional storms every cycle.

A Functional Medicine Approach to PMS

Instead of masking symptoms, Functional Medicine asks: Why is this happening? Here’s how we might approach PMS:

1. Testing, not guessing – Looking at hormone levels, thyroid function, nutrient status, and gut health to identify imbalances.
2. Supporting hormone balance naturally – Nutrition (cruciferous veggies help estrogen metabolism), seed cycling, stress reduction, and targeted supplements.
3. Balancing blood sugar – Protein-rich meals, fiber, and avoiding processed sugars to reduce mood swings and cravings.
4. Restoring gut health – Probiotics, fiber, and minimizing gut irritants so your body can detox hormones effectively.
5. Nourishing key nutrients – Magnesium (eases cramps), Vitamin B6 (supports mood), Omega-3s (reduce inflammation).

The Takeaway

PMS doesn’t have to be your “normal.” Your period is a vital sign, a monthly check-in on your overall health. If PMS is disruptive, it’s worth exploring what your body is really telling you.

With a Functional Medicine approach, you can move beyond symptom suppression and start addressing the root causes—so your cycle feels like a rhythm, not a battle.

At Radiant Health & Wellness, we see your cycle as a vital sign—not an inconvenience. If PMS is holding you back, it’s time to look deeper. Together, we can uncover the root cause and bring your hormones back into balance.

References:

• Yonkers KA, et al. “Premenstrual Syndrome.” Lancet. 2008;371(9619):1200-1210.
• Rapkin AJ, Mikacich JA. “Premenstrual Syndrome and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder in Adolescents.” Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2013;25(6):468–474.
• Chocano-Bedoya PO, et al. “Dietary B vitamin intake and incident premenstrual syndrome.” Am J Clin Nutr. 2011;93(5):1080–1086.