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Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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PMS - Premenstrual Syndrome

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Premenstrual syndrome, also called PMS, is a term used to describe a group of physical, mental, and behavioral symptoms. These symptoms occur in the 2 weeks before a menstruating woman has her period.

What is going on in the body?

PMS occurs during the last 2 weeks of a woman's menstrual cycle. This phase starts with the release of an egg from the ovary. It ends when the woman starts her period. The exact cause of PMS is unknown, but researchers have proposed the following causes:

changes in kidney hormone levels, which cause water retention and weight gain

deficiencies of minerals, such as calcium

deficiencies of vitamins A, B6, and E

dietary changes, such as high levels of sodium and simple sugars

higher levels of estrogen, a female hormone

higher levels of prostaglandins, which produce inflammation

lower levels of endorphins, which are a part of the nervous system that produce what is called a high feeling

lower levels of progesterone, a female hormone

lower levels of serotonin, a hormone that influences mood

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

PMS is reported in 85% of women who menstruate. However, only 5% to 10% of menstruating women are severely impaired by PMS. No one knows what makes PMS so severe in some women and mild in others.

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