Understanding the Cause of PMS and Effective Solutions

Is Your Discomfort Before Menstruation PMS?

Do you experience stomach pain, fatigue, or general discomfort before your period? These symptoms are common in PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), a condition characterized by various physical and emotional symptoms before menstruation. Around 70-80% of people experience PMS at some point.

Why Does PMS Happen?

For a long time, the causes and mechanisms behind PMS were not well understood. However, recent research has shed light on the subject. This article will explain the mechanisms behind PMS and provide strategies for managing symptoms.

Mechanism 1: Oxidative Stress

The female body primarily produces two types of hormones—estrogen and progesterone. Before menstruation, estrogen levels increase. While these hormones normally provide beneficial “antioxidant effects” in the body, this function may not operate correctly during PMS. When natural antioxidant defenses become insufficient, oxidative stress occurs, damaging nerve cells and triggering symptoms associated with PMS.

Mechanism 2: Inflammation

The menstrual cycle causes hormonal shifts, particularly in levels of progesterone, a hormone that leads to the production of another hormone called allopregnanolone. Increased levels of allopregnanolone induce calming and anti-anxiety effects, but just before menstruation, progesterone levels decrease, reducing the production of allopregnanolone. This reduced calming effect can trigger an inflammatory response, leading to premenstrual discomfort.

Oxidative Stress and Its Strong Connection to PMS

Both mechanisms described above are closely related to oxidative stress. While “oxygen” is essential for life, in the body, it can also form “reactive oxygen species” or free radicals, which can be both beneficial and harmful. When free radicals are produced in excess, they can damage nerve cells and lead to PMS symptoms. Oxidative stress is also believed to induce inflammation, further contributing to PMS.

Antioxidants that eliminate free radicals are essential in reducing oxidative stress. When the body has sufficient antioxidant substances, oxidative stress is mitigated, and PMS symptoms may decrease.

Steps Toward Resolving PMS at the Root

To address PMS effectively, reducing oxidative stress is crucial. However, it’s often unclear how to implement this in daily life. While maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a regular schedule is the most effective approach, the demands of modern life can make this challenging.

A powerful antioxidant known as "reduced coenzyme Q10" has shown promise in reducing oxidative stress. Reduced coenzyme Q10 is known for its potent antioxidant effects, which neutralize free radicals and help prevent oxidative stress.

In clinical trials conducted by third-party organizations, the impact of reduced coenzyme Q10 on PMS symptoms was observed. In a month-long study, participants took reduced coenzyme Q10 supplements, and results showed improvement across various PMS symptoms. Notably, mental health benefits were substantial, and there were also positive physical effects.

This ingredient, reduced coenzyme Q10, has shown measurable results in alleviating PMS symptoms. It can be conveniently taken as a supplement. Developed by the Japanese company Kaneka, reduced coenzyme Q10 is available for purchase in Japan. For those struggling with PMS, it’s worth considering.