Seed Syncing

 

Phase 1 — The Follicular Phase

  • Flax Seeds
  • Pumpkin Seeds

Flax seeds contain nearly 100x more lignans than other lignan-rich foods. When these ground and consumed, the lignans in flax help alleviate period-related breast pain and detoxify the body of excess hormones. Flax seeds are also a great source of Magnesium, Zinc, and Vitamin B1.

Learn more about how these superhero seeds help reduce period cramping, PMS symptoms, menstrual migraines, and more below.

Lignans

Androgen Annihilator¹

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) affects 10% of reproductive-aged women. This endocrine disorder is characterized by dysfunctional menstruation, excessive androgens (male sex hormones), and polycystic ovaries. Excess androgens contribute to symptoms of excess body hair (hirsutism), acne, hair loss (androgenic alopecia), weight gain, and irregular periods.

A large body of research has shown that flax seeds, a rich source of lignans, reduce androgen levels in men with prostate cancer. Less research has been conducted on female subjects, but a promising case study on a woman with PCOS revealed that flax seed supplementation created statistically significant decreases in testosterone (total serum, free serum, and % free). In addition, the patient reported a significant decrease in hirsutism (excess body hair) upon completion of the study.

Hormone Helper²

Flax seed is the richest source of powerful cancer fighters known as plant lignans. Shown to reduce the growth of hormone-senstive tumors (e.g. breast and prostate cancers), they're also known to protect against breast cancer altogether. Studies have revealed that these lignans increase the presence of Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)- a protein produced by the liver that plays a major role in the metabolism and excretion of estrogen. This process is critical to the female body, as excess estrogen (or estrogen dominance) is tied to hormone-sensitive diseases, such as breast cancer, and symptoms ranging from PMS to weight gain. By promoting the the liver's metabolism of estrogen, the lignans in flax seed help reduce excess estrogen in the body.

Breast Pain Banisher³

Mastalgia, or the cyclical pain experienced in breasts during menstrual cycles, often manifests as breast congestion, soreness, tenderness, and heaviness. Multiple research studies involving the daily consumption of flax seeds have shown statistically significant reductions in both the duration and intensity of cyclical mastalgia.

Sayonara Cysts⁴

The term polycystic refers to the multiple fluid-filled follicles, or cysts, that appear on women's ovaries when they have PCOS.

Although less researched, a promising 2015 study revealed that daily ingestion of flax seeds over three months caused a significant reduction in the number of ovarian cysts, as well as the size of the ovaries in women with PCOS. This same study also showed that flax seed supplementation brought about regular menstruation in 33% of women that had previously faced irregular cycles within the study cohort.

Sources

1. Androgen Annihilator
Nowak DA, Snyder DC, Brown AJ, Demark-Wahnefried W. The Effect of Flaxseed Supplementation on Hormonal Levels Associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Case Study. Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research. 2007;5(4), 177-181.

2.. Hormone Helper

Adlercreutz H, Hockerstedt K, Bannwart C, et al. Effect of Dietary Components, Including Lignans and Phytoestrogens, on Enterohepatic Circulation and Liver Metabolism of Estrogens and on Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). Journal of Steroid Biochemistry. 1987; 27 (4–6): 1135–1144. doi: 10.1016/0022-4731 (87)90200-7.

Brooks JD, Ward WE, Lewis JE, et al. Supplementation with Flaxseed Alters Estrogen Metabolism in Postmenopausal Women to a Greater Extent than does Supplementation with an Equal Amount of Soy. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2004;79(2):318–325. doi:10.1093/ajcn/79.2.318.

Chen J, Stavro PM, &Thompson LU. Dietary Flaxseed Inhibits Human Breast Cancer Growth and Metastasis and Downregulates Expression of Insulin-Like Growth Factor and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor. Nutrition and Cancer. 2002;43(2): 187-192. doi: 10.1207/s15327914nc432_9.

Haggans CJ, Hutchins AM, Olson BA, et al. Effect of Flaxseed Consumption on Urinary Estrogen Metabolites in Postmenopausal Women. Nutrition and Cancer. 1999; 33(2): 188-195. doi: 10.1207/s15327914nc330211.

3. Breast Pain Banisher

Goss PE, Li T, Theriault M, Pinto S, Thompson LU. Effects of Dietary Flaxseed in Women with Cyclical Mastalgia. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment. 2000; 64(1):49.

Adibmoghaddam E, Jaafarnejad F, Emami SA, Saki A. Compare the Effect of Flaxseed, Evening Primrose Oil and Vitamin E on Duration of Periodic Breast Pain. Journal of Education and Health Promotion. 2017; 6(1):85. doi: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_83_16.

Mirghafourvand M, Mohammad-Alizadeh-Charandabi S, Ahmadpour P, Javadzadeh Y. Effects of Vitex Agnus and Flaxseed on Cyclic Mastalgia: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2016;24:90-95. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2015.12.009.  

Vaziri F, Lari MZ, Dehaghani, AS, et al. Comparing the Effects of Dietary Flaxseed and Omega-3 Fatty Acids Supplement on Cyclical Mastalgia in Iranian Women: A Randomized Clinical Trial. International Journal of Family Medicine. 2014;2014: 1-7. doi: 10.1155/2014/174532.

4. Sayonara Cysts
Fatima Farzana K, et al. Effects of Flax Seeds Supplementation in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences Review and Research. 2015;31(1), 113–119.

Magnesium

Peace Out, PMS¹

For many, PMS means anxiety and mood swings. It also means physical symptoms: headaches, bloating, breast tenderness.

Magnesium can be a game-changer. Studies show that supplementation of Magnesium creates statistically significant decreases in the severity and duration of PMS symptoms- specifically: mood changes, anxiety, depression, weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.

Migraine Magic²

Menstrual migraines are challenging to treat, often resistant to many over-the-counter drugs.

Research is limited, but a promising double-blind study concluded that daily supplementation with Magnesium reduced the pain and duration of menstrual migraines amongst participants.

Sources

1. Peace Out, PMS
Fathizadeh N, Ebrahimi E, Valiani M, Tavakoli N, Yar MH. Evaluating the Effect of Magnesium and Magnesium Plus Vitamin B6 Supplement on the Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2010;15(1):401-405.

London RS, Bradley L, Chiamori NY. Effect of a nutritional supplement on premenstrual symptomatology in women with premenstrual syndrome: a double-blind longitudinal study. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 1991;10(5): 494-499. doi: 10.1080/07315724.1991.10718176.

Souza MCD, Walker AF, Robinson P A, & Bolland K. A synergistic effect of a daily supplement for 1 month of 200 mg magnesium plus 50 mg Vitamin B₆ for the relief of anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Journal of Women's Health & Gender-Based Medicine. 2000;9(2):131-139. doi:10.1089/152460900318623.

Walker AF, Souza MCD, Vickers MF, Abeyasekera S, Collins ML, and Trinca LA. Magnesium supplementation alleviaes premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. Journal of Women's Health. 1998;7(9):1157-1165. doi: 10.1089/jwh.1998.7.1157.

Facchinetti F, et al. Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes. Obstetrics And Gynecology. 1991; 78(2): 177–181.


Quaranta S, Buscaglia MA, Meroni MG, Colombo E, Cella S. Pilot study of the efficacy and safety of a modified-release magnesium 250mg tablet (sincromag??) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Clinical Drug Investigation. 2007;27(1):51-58. doi:10.2165/00044011-200727010-00004.

2. Migraine Magic

Facchinetti F, Sances G, Borella P, Genazzani AR, Nappi G. Magnesium Prophylaxis of Menstrual Migraine: Effects on Intracellular Magnesium. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 1991;31(5):298–301. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.1991.hed3105298.x.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

Cramp Curer¹

Dysmenorhea- a fancy word for painful period cramps- is typically treated with ibuprofen, Midol, aspirin, hormonal birth control. More natural attempts to soothe cramping include hot water bottles, baths, heating pads. But none of these work to treat the cause of cramps.

Vitamin B1 has been shown to not only reduced the severity and duration of cramps, but actually completely cured women of this menstrual symptom. One study, in particular, demonstrated that after 90-days of daily Vitamin B1 supplementation, 87% of participants were cured of painful menstrual cramps.

Put an End to PMS²

Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, has been shown to significantly reduce the overall average mental and physical symptoms of PMS. Research has indicated that women with a high intake of Thiamine from food sources have significantly lower risk of PMS.

Studies have also shown that Thiamine is particularly powerful at reducing PMS-related depression and cramping.

Sources

1.. Cramp Curer

Zafari M, Aghamohammady A, Tofighi M. Comparing the effect of vitamin B1 (vit. B1) and ibuberofen on the treatment of primary dysmenorhea. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2011;5(7):874–878.

Gokhale LB. Curative treatment of primary (spasmodic) dysmenorrhoea. Indian Journal of Medical Research. 1996;103:227-231.

2. Put an End to PMS
Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of mental symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s335. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.745.

Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of depression related to the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s174-s175. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.291.

Chocano-Bedoya PO, Manson JE, Hankinson SE, et al. Dietary B vitamin intake and incident premenstrual syndrome. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2011;93(5):1080-1086. doi:10.3945/ajcn.110.009530.

Zinc

Quality of Life Booster¹

Research shows that daily Zinc supplementation not only reduces the incidence of PMS, but also improves Quality of Life scores- for both physical and mental categories- for women with PMS aged 20-39.

Zinc plays a role in reducing the prevalence and severity of symptoms like mood changes, vertigo, anxiety, weight gain, bloating, muscular pain and weakness. Studies also reveal that Zinc levels drop significantly during the Luteal Phase (Phase 2) in women suffering from PMS, making replenishing Zinc is an important step in managing PMS symptoms.

Inflammation Calmer²

Studies show that Zinc supplementation has similar anti-inflammatory effects as medications, like Midol and Advil. Reducing inflammation and allowing for more oxygen flow to the uterus, Zinc can counteract the effects of prostaglandins and reduce both the incidence and duration of painful menstrual cramps, which 90% of American women experience during the first days of menstruation.

Research shows that Zinc reduces the severity of menstrual bleeding as well.

Sources

1. Quality of Life Booster
Siahbazi S, Behboudi-Gandevani S, Moghaddam-Banaem L, Montazeri A. Effect of zinc sulfate supplementation on premenstrual syndrome and health-related quality of life: Clinical randomized controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. 2017;43(5): 887–894. doi: 10.1111/jog.13299.

Chuong CJ, Dawson EB. Zinc and copper levels in premenstrual syndrome.* Fertility And Sterility. 1994;62(2):313–320. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)56884-8.  

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

2. Inflamation Calmer
Eby GA. Zinc treatment prevents dysmenorrhea. Medical hypotheses. 2007;69(2):297-301. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.12.009.

Kelly RW, Abel MH. Copper and Zinc Inhibit the Metabolism of Prostaglandin by the Human Uterus. Biology of Reproduction. 1983;28(4):883–889. doi:10.1095/biolreprod28.4.883.

Prasad AS. Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Its Role in Human Health. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2014;1. doi:10.3389/fnut.2014.00014.

Kashefi F, Khajehei M, Tabatabaeichehr M, Alavinia M, Asili J. Comparison of the effect of ginger and zinc sulfate on primary dysmenorrhea: A placebo-controlled randomized trial. Pain Management Nursing. 2014;15(4):826-833. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2013.09.001.

Zekavat OR, Karimi MY, Amanat A, Alipour F. A randomised controlled trial of oral zinc sulphate for primary dysmenorrhoea in adolescent females. The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2015;55(4) :369-73. doi:10.1111/ajo.12367.

Teimoori B, Ghasemi M, Hoseini ZSA, Razavi M. The Efficacy of Zinc Administration in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea. Oman Medical Journal. 2016;31(2):107-111. doi:10.5001/omj.2016.21.

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

Pumpkin seeds are rich in Magnesium and Zinc, both of which have been shown to alleviate PMS symptoms.

We've compiled information below from research studies below that show how pumpkin seed supplementation helps reduce cramping, alleviate menstrual migranes, and more.

Magnesium

Peace Out, PMS¹

For many, PMS means anxiety and mood swings. It also means physical symptoms: headaches, bloating, breast tenderness.

Magnesium can be a game-changer. Studies show that supplementation of Magnesium creates statistically significant decreases in the severity and duration of PMS symptoms- specifically: mood changes, anxiety, depression, weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.

Migraine Magic²

Menstrual migraines are challenging to treat, often resistant to many over-the-counter drugs.

Research is limited, but a promising double-blind study concluded that daily supplementation with Magnesium reduced the pain and duration of menstrual migraines amongst participants.

Sources

1. Peace Out, PMS
Fathizadeh N, Ebrahimi E, Valiani M, Tavakoli N, Yar MH. Evaluating the Effect of Magnesium and Magnesium Plus Vitamin B6 Supplement on the Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2010;15(1):401-405.

London RS, Bradley L, Chiamori NY. Effect of a nutritional supplement on premenstrual symptomatology in women with premenstrual syndrome: a double-blind longitudinal study. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 1991;10(5): 494-499. doi: 10.1080/07315724.1991.10718176.

Souza MCD, Walker AF, Robinson P A, & Bolland K. A synergistic effect of a daily supplement for 1 month of 200 mg magnesium plus 50 mg Vitamin B₆ for the relief of anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Journal of Women's Health & Gender-Based Medicine. 2000;9(2):131-139. doi:10.1089/152460900318623.

Walker AF, Souza MCD, Vickers MF, Abeyasekera S, Collins ML, and Trinca LA. Magnesium supplementation alleviaes premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. Journal of Women's Health. 1998;7(9):1157-1165. doi: 10.1089/jwh.1998.7.1157.

Facchinetti F, et al. Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes. Obstetrics And Gynecology. 1991; 78(2): 177–181.


Quaranta S, Buscaglia MA, Meroni MG, Colombo E, Cella S. Pilot study of the efficacy and safety of a modified-release magnesium 250mg tablet (sincromag??) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Clinical Drug Investigation. 2007;27(1):51-58. doi:10.2165/00044011-200727010-00004.

2. Migraine Magic

Facchinetti F, Sances G, Borella P, Genazzani AR, Nappi G. Magnesium Prophylaxis of Menstrual Migraine: Effects on Intracellular Magnesium. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 1991;31(5):298–301. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.1991.hed3105298.x.

Zinc

Quality of Life Booster¹

Research shows that daily Zinc supplementation not only reduces the incidence of PMS, but also improves Quality of Life scores- for both physical and mental categories- for women with PMS aged 20-39.

Zinc plays a role in reducing the prevalence and severity of symptoms like mood changes, vertigo, anxiety, weight gain, bloating, muscular pain and weakness. Studies also reveal that Zinc levels drop significantly during the Luteal Phase (Phase 2) in women suffering from PMS, making replenishing Zinc is an important step in managing PMS symptoms.

Inflammation Calmer²

Studies show that Zinc supplementation has similar anti-inflammatory effects as medications, like Midol and Advil. Reducing inflammation and allowing for more oxygen flow to the uterus, Zinc can counteract the effects of prostaglandins and reduce both the incidence and duration of painful menstrual cramps, which 90% of American women experience during the first days of menstruation.

Research shows that Zinc reduces the severity of menstrual bleeding as well.

Sources

1. Quality of Life Booster
Siahbazi S, Behboudi-Gandevani S, Moghaddam-Banaem L, Montazeri A. Effect of zinc sulfate supplementation on premenstrual syndrome and health-related quality of life: Clinical randomized controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. 2017;43(5): 887–894. doi: 10.1111/jog.13299.

Chuong CJ, Dawson EB. Zinc and copper levels in premenstrual syndrome.* Fertility And Sterility. 1994;62(2):313–320. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)56884-8.  

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

2. Inflamation Calmer
Eby GA. Zinc treatment prevents dysmenorrhea. Medical hypotheses. 2007;69(2):297-301. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.12.009.

Kelly RW, Abel MH. Copper and Zinc Inhibit the Metabolism of Prostaglandin by the Human Uterus. Biology of Reproduction. 1983;28(4):883–889. doi:10.1095/biolreprod28.4.883.

Prasad AS. Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Its Role in Human Health. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2014;1. doi:10.3389/fnut.2014.00014.

Kashefi F, Khajehei M, Tabatabaeichehr M, Alavinia M, Asili J. Comparison of the effect of ginger and zinc sulfate on primary dysmenorrhea: A placebo-controlled randomized trial. Pain Management Nursing. 2014;15(4):826-833. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2013.09.001.

Zekavat OR, Karimi MY, Amanat A, Alipour F. A randomised controlled trial of oral zinc sulphate for primary dysmenorrhoea in adolescent females. The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2015;55(4) :369-73. doi:10.1111/ajo.12367.

Teimoori B, Ghasemi M, Hoseini ZSA, Razavi M. The Efficacy of Zinc Administration in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea. Oman Medical Journal. 2016;31(2):107-111. doi:10.5001/omj.2016.21.

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

Phase 2 — The Luteal Phase

  • Sesame Seeds
  • Sunflower Seeds

This seed may be small, but it's health-promoting benefits are plenty. Not only are sesame seeds also rich in cancer-fighting lignans, they are a great source of Magnesium, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, and Zinc.

Below we've included information on how sesame seeds can help reinstate your cycle, alleviate painful period cramps, improve PMS symptoms and more.

Lignans

Cycle Regulator

Infrequent menstrual periods, or oligomenorrhea, can be caused by numerous things, but have limited treatment options. Most commonly prescribed is hormonal birth control or progestin (a synthetic hormone), which don't come without side effects. Aside from prescriptions, sesame seeds have been used an effective tool for inducing bleeding for women experiencing oligomenorrhea. They pack a powerful punch of lignans that has also been shown to help maintain bleeding during future cycles.

Sources

1. Cycle Regulator
Yavari M, Rouholamin S, Tansaz M, Bioos S, Esmaeili S.. Sesame a Treatment of Menstrual Bleeding Cessation in Iranian Traditional Medicine: Results From a Pilot Study. Shiraz E-Medical Journal. 2014;15(3). doi:10.17795/semj21893.

Magnesium

Peace Out, PMS¹

For many, PMS means anxiety and mood swings. It also means physical symptoms: headaches, bloating, breast tenderness.

Magnesium can be a game-changer. Studies show that supplementation of Magnesium creates statistically significant decreases in the severity and duration of PMS symptoms- specifically: mood changes, anxiety, depression, weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.

Migraine Magic²

Menstrual migraines are challenging to treat, often resistant to many over-the-counter drugs.

Research is limited, but a promising double-blind study concluded that daily supplementation with Magnesium reduced the pain and duration of menstrual migraines amongst participants.

Sources

1. Peace Out, PMS
Fathizadeh N, Ebrahimi E, Valiani M, Tavakoli N, Yar MH. Evaluating the Effect of Magnesium and Magnesium Plus Vitamin B6 Supplement on the Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2010;15(1):401-405.

London RS, Bradley L, Chiamori NY. Effect of a nutritional supplement on premenstrual symptomatology in women with premenstrual syndrome: a double-blind longitudinal study. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 1991;10(5): 494-499. doi: 10.1080/07315724.1991.10718176.

Souza MCD, Walker AF, Robinson P A, & Bolland K. A synergistic effect of a daily supplement for 1 month of 200 mg magnesium plus 50 mg Vitamin B₆ for the relief of anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Journal of Women's Health & Gender-Based Medicine. 2000;9(2):131-139. doi:10.1089/152460900318623.

Walker AF, Souza MCD, Vickers MF, Abeyasekera S, Collins ML, and Trinca LA. Magnesium supplementation alleviaes premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. Journal of Women's Health. 1998;7(9):1157-1165. doi: 10.1089/jwh.1998.7.1157.

Facchinetti F, et al. Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes. Obstetrics And Gynecology. 1991; 78(2): 177–181.


Quaranta S, Buscaglia MA, Meroni MG, Colombo E, Cella S. Pilot study of the efficacy and safety of a modified-release magnesium 250mg tablet (sincromag??) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Clinical Drug Investigation. 2007;27(1):51-58. doi:10.2165/00044011-200727010-00004.

2. Migraine Magic

Facchinetti F, Sances G, Borella P, Genazzani AR, Nappi G. Magnesium Prophylaxis of Menstrual Migraine: Effects on Intracellular Magnesium. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 1991;31(5):298–301. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.1991.hed3105298.x.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

Cramp Curer¹

Dysmenorhea- a fancy word for painful period cramps- is typically treated with ibuprofen, Midol, aspirin, hormonal birth control. More natural attempts to soothe cramping include hot water bottles, baths, heating pads. But none of these work to treat the cause of cramps.

Vitamin B1 has been shown to not only reduced the severity and duration of cramps, but actually completely cured women of this menstrual symptom. One study, in particular, demonstrated that after 90-days of daily Vitamin B1 supplementation, 87% of participants were cured of painful menstrual cramps.

Put an End to PMS²

Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, has been shown to significantly reduce the overall average mental and physical symptoms of PMS. Research has indicated that women with a high intake of Thiamine from food sources have significantly lower risk of PMS.

Studies have also shown that Thiamine is particularly powerful at reducing PMS-related depression and cramping.

Sources

1. Cramp Curer

Zafari M, Aghamohammady A, Tofighi M. Comparing the effect of vitamin B1 (vit. B1) and ibuberofen on the treatment of primary dysmenorhea. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2011;5(7):874–878.

Gokhale LB. Curative treatment of primary (spasmodic) dysmenorrhoea. Indian Journal of Medical Research. 1996;103:227-231.

2. Put an End to PMS
Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of mental symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s335. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.745.

Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of depression related to the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s174-s175. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.291.

Chocano-Bedoya PO, Manson JE, Hankinson SE, et al. Dietary B vitamin intake and incident premenstrual syndrome. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2011;93(5):1080-1086. doi:10.3945/ajcn.110.009530.

Zinc

Quality of Life Booster¹

Research shows that daily Zinc supplementation not only reduces the incidence of PMS, but also improves Quality of Life scores- for both physical and mental categories- for women with PMS aged 20-39.

Zinc plays a role in reducing the prevalence and severity of symptoms like mood changes, vertigo, anxiety, weight gain, bloating, muscular pain and weakness. Studies also reveal that Zinc levels drop significantly during the Luteal Phase (Phase 2) in women suffering from PMS, making replenishing Zinc is an important step in managing PMS symptoms.

Inflammation Calmer²

Studies show that Zinc supplementation has similar anti-inflammatory effects as medications, like Midol and Advil. Reducing inflammation and allowing for more oxygen flow to the uterus, Zinc can counteract the effects of prostaglandins and reduce both the incidence and duration of painful menstrual cramps, which 90% of American women experience during the first days of menstruation.

Research shows that Zinc reduces the severity of menstrual bleeding as well.

Sources

1. Quality of Life Booster
Siahbazi S, Behboudi-Gandevani S, Moghaddam-Banaem L, Montazeri A. Effect of zinc sulfate supplementation on premenstrual syndrome and health-related quality of life: Clinical randomized controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. 2017;43(5): 887–894. doi: 10.1111/jog.13299.

Chuong CJ, Dawson EB. Zinc and copper levels in premenstrual syndrome.* Fertility And Sterility. 1994;62(2):313–320. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)56884-8.  

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

2. Inflamation Calmer
Eby GA. Zinc treatment prevents dysmenorrhea. Medical hypotheses. 2007;69(2):297-301. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.12.009.

Kelly RW, Abel MH. Copper and Zinc Inhibit the Metabolism of Prostaglandin by the Human Uterus. Biology of Reproduction. 1983;28(4):883–889. doi:10.1095/biolreprod28.4.883.

Prasad AS. Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Its Role in Human Health. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2014;1. doi:10.3389/fnut.2014.00014.

Kashefi F, Khajehei M, Tabatabaeichehr M, Alavinia M, Asili J. Comparison of the effect of ginger and zinc sulfate on primary dysmenorrhea: A placebo-controlled randomized trial. Pain Management Nursing. 2014;15(4):826-833. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2013.09.001.

Zekavat OR, Karimi MY, Amanat A, Alipour F. A randomised controlled trial of oral zinc sulphate for primary dysmenorrhoea in adolescent females. The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2015;55(4) :369-73. doi:10.1111/ajo.12367.

Teimoori B, Ghasemi M, Hoseini ZSA, Razavi M. The Efficacy of Zinc Administration in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea. Oman Medical Journal. 2016;31(2):107-111. doi:10.5001/omj.2016.21.

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

Sunflower seeds are powerhouse providers of Magnesium, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B6, Vitamin E, and Zinc.

Below we've documented how the micronutrients in sunflower seeds help alleviate breast pain, period cramps, and menstrual migraines to name a few.

Magnesium

Peace Out, PMS¹

For many, PMS means anxiety and mood swings. It also means physical symptoms: headaches, bloating, breast tenderness.

Magnesium can be a game-changer. Studies show that supplementation of Magnesium creates statistically significant decreases in the severity and duration of PMS symptoms- specifically: mood changes, anxiety, depression, weight gain, bloating, breast tenderness, and fluid retention.

Migraine Magic²

Menstrual migraines are challenging to treat, often resistant to many over-the-counter drugs.

Research is limited, but a promising double-blind study concluded that daily supplementation with Magnesium reduced the pain and duration of menstrual migraines amongst participants.

Sources

1. Peace Out, PMS
Fathizadeh N, Ebrahimi E, Valiani M, Tavakoli N, Yar MH. Evaluating the Effect of Magnesium and Magnesium Plus Vitamin B6 Supplement on the Severity of Premenstrual Syndrome. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2010;15(1):401-405.

London RS, Bradley L, Chiamori NY. Effect of a nutritional supplement on premenstrual symptomatology in women with premenstrual syndrome: a double-blind longitudinal study. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 1991;10(5): 494-499. doi: 10.1080/07315724.1991.10718176.

Souza MCD, Walker AF, Robinson P A, & Bolland K. A synergistic effect of a daily supplement for 1 month of 200 mg magnesium plus 50 mg Vitamin B₆ for the relief of anxiety-related premenstrual symptoms: A randomized, double-blind, crossover study. Journal of Women's Health & Gender-Based Medicine. 2000;9(2):131-139. doi:10.1089/152460900318623.

Walker AF, Souza MCD, Vickers MF, Abeyasekera S, Collins ML, and Trinca LA. Magnesium supplementation alleviaes premenstrual symptoms of fluid retention. Journal of Women's Health. 1998;7(9):1157-1165. doi: 10.1089/jwh.1998.7.1157.

Facchinetti F, et al. Oral magnesium successfully relieves premenstrual mood changes. Obstetrics And Gynecology. 1991; 78(2): 177–181.


Quaranta S, Buscaglia MA, Meroni MG, Colombo E, Cella S. Pilot study of the efficacy and safety of a modified-release magnesium 250mg tablet (sincromag??) for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Clinical Drug Investigation. 2007;27(1):51-58. doi:10.2165/00044011-200727010-00004.

2. Migraine Magic

Facchinetti F, Sances G, Borella P, Genazzani AR, Nappi G. Magnesium Prophylaxis of Menstrual Migraine: Effects on Intracellular Magnesium. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain. 1991;31(5):298–301. doi: 10.1111/j.1526-4610.1991.hed3105298.x.

Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)

Breast Pain Banisher¹

Cyclical mastalgia, or period-related breast pain, is a common symptom characterized by breast tenderness, swelling, and pain prior to menstruation.

Although research on the use of Vitamin B6 to treat cyclical mastalgia is limited, a recent study showed that daily supplementation with Vitamin B6 for two months significantly reduced breast pain severity in the 40 participants.

Mood Swing Minimizer²

PMS symptoms are typically classified into two categories: Psychiatric and Physical.

Research on the daily supplementation of Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6) has shown significant reductions in the severity of psyciatric PMS symptoms, such as depression, tiredness, and irritability.

Sources

1. Breast Pain Banisher
Shobeiri F, Oshvandi K, Nazari M. Clinical effectiveness of vitamin E and vitamin B6 for improving pain severity in cyclic mastalgia. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2015;20(6):723-727. doi:10.4103/1735-9066.170003.

Kataria K, Dhar A, Srivastava A, Kumar S, Goyal A. A systematic review of current understanding and management of mastalgia. Indian Journal of Surgery. 2013;76(3)217-222. doi:10.1007/s12262-013-0813-8.

2. Mood Swing Minimizer
Doll H, Brown S, Thurston A, Vessey M. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and the premenstrual syndrome: a randomized crossover trial. The Journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners. 1989;39(326):364-368.

Kashanian M, Mazinani R, Jalalmanesh S. Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) therapy for premenstrual syndrome. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics. 2006;96(1):43-44. doi:10.1016/j.ijgo.2006.09.014.

Wyatt KM, Dimmock PW, Jones PW, Obrien PMS. Efficacy of vitamin B-6 in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: systematic review. Bmj. 1999;318(7195):1375-1381. doi:10.1136/bmj.318.7195.1375.

Bendich A. The Potential for Dietary Supplements to Reduce Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) Symptoms. Journal of the American College of Nutrition. 2000;19(1):3-12. doi:10.1080/07315724.2000.10718907.

Zinc

Quality of Life Booster¹

Research shows that daily Zinc supplementation not only reduces the incidence of PMS, but also improves Quality of Life scores- for both physical and mental categories- for women with PMS aged 20-39.

Zinc plays a role in reducing the prevalence and severity of symptoms like mood changes, vertigo, anxiety, weight gain, bloating, muscular pain and weakness. Studies also reveal that Zinc levels drop significantly during the Luteal Phase (Phase 2) in women suffering from PMS, making replenishing Zinc is an important step in managing PMS symptoms.

Inflammation Calmer²

Studies show that Zinc supplementation has similar anti-inflammatory effects as medications, like Midol and Advil. Reducing inflammation and allowing for more oxygen flow to the uterus, Zinc can counteract the effects of prostaglandins and reduce both the incidence and duration of painful menstrual cramps, which 90% of American women experience during the first days of menstruation.

Research shows that Zinc reduces the severity of menstrual bleeding as well.

Sources

1. Quality of Life Booster
Siahbazi S, Behboudi-Gandevani S, Moghaddam-Banaem L, Montazeri A. Effect of zinc sulfate supplementation on premenstrual syndrome and health-related quality of life: Clinical randomized controlled trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. 2017;43(5): 887–894. doi: 10.1111/jog.13299.

Chuong CJ, Dawson EB. Zinc and copper levels in premenstrual syndrome.* Fertility And Sterility. 1994;62(2):313–320. doi:10.1016/s0015-0282(16)56884-8.  

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

2. Inflamation Calmer
Eby GA. Zinc treatment prevents dysmenorrhea. Medical hypotheses. 2007;69(2):297-301. doi: 10.1016/j.mehy.2006.12.009.

Kelly RW, Abel MH. Copper and Zinc Inhibit the Metabolism of Prostaglandin by the Human Uterus. Biology of Reproduction. 1983;28(4):883–889. doi:10.1095/biolreprod28.4.883.

Prasad AS. Zinc is an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent: Its Role in Human Health. Frontiers in Nutrition. 2014;1. doi:10.3389/fnut.2014.00014.

Kashefi F, Khajehei M, Tabatabaeichehr M, Alavinia M, Asili J. Comparison of the effect of ginger and zinc sulfate on primary dysmenorrhea: A placebo-controlled randomized trial. Pain Management Nursing. 2014;15(4):826-833. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2013.09.001.

Zekavat OR, Karimi MY, Amanat A, Alipour F. A randomised controlled trial of oral zinc sulphate for primary dysmenorrhoea in adolescent females. The Australian & New Zealand Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology. 2015;55(4) :369-73. doi:10.1111/ajo.12367.

Teimoori B, Ghasemi M, Hoseini ZSA, Razavi M. The Efficacy of Zinc Administration in the Treatment of Primary Dysmenorrhea. Oman Medical Journal. 2016;31(2):107-111. doi:10.5001/omj.2016.21.

Sangestani G, et al. The Positive Effects of Zinc Supplements on the Improvement of Primary Dysmenorrhea and Premenstrual Symptoms: A Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial. Journal of Midwifery & Reproductive Health. 2015;3(3):378-384.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1)

Cramp Curer¹

Dysmenorhea- a fancy word for painful period cramps- is typically treated with ibuprofen, Midol, aspirin, hormonal birth control. More natural attempts to soothe cramping include hot water bottles, baths, heating pads. But none of these work to treat the cause of cramps.

Vitamin B1 has been shown to not only reduced the severity and duration of cramps, but actually completely cured women of this menstrual symptom. One study, in particular, demonstrated that after 90-days of daily Vitamin B1 supplementation, 87% of participants were cured of painful menstrual cramps.

Put an End to PMS²

Thiamine, also known as Vitamin B1, has been shown to significantly reduce the overall average mental and physical symptoms of PMS. Research has indicated that women with a high intake of Thiamine from food sources have significantly lower risk of PMS.

Studies have also shown that Thiamine is particularly powerful at reducing PMS-related depression and cramping.

Sources

1. Cramp Curer

Zafari M, Aghamohammady A, Tofighi M. Comparing the effect of vitamin B1 (vit. B1) and ibuberofen on the treatment of primary dysmenorhea. African Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2011;5(7):874–878.

Gokhale LB. Curative treatment of primary (spasmodic) dysmenorrhoea. Indian Journal of Medical Research. 1996;103:227-231.

2. Put an End to PMS
Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of mental symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s335. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.745.

Abdollahifard S, Maddahfar M. The effects of vitamin B1 on ameliorating of depression related to the premenstrual syndrome. European Psychiatry. 2016;33:s174-s175. doi:10.1016/j.eurpsy.2016.01.291.

Chocano-Bedoya PO, Manson JE, Hankinson SE, et al. Dietary B vitamin intake and incident premenstrual syndrome. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2011;93(5):1080-1086. doi:10.3945/ajcn.110.009530.

Vitamin E

Cramp Killer¹

Research studies have demonstrated that supplementation with Vitamin E is effective in reducing both the severity and duration of menstrual cramping.

Vitamin E acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and counteracts the often painful effects of hormones known as prostaglandins, which cause cramping by starving the uterus of oxygen during menstruation.

Boycott Breast Pain²

Breast pain, tenderness, and swelling is characteristic of a common condition known as cyclical mastalgia, plaguing approximately 70% of premenopausal women.

Studies have shown that daily Vitamin E supplementation reduced both the severity and duration of cyclical mastalgia: no more breast pain, tenderness, and swelling.

Migrane Minimizer³

Nearly 22% of female migraine sufferers have migraines directly related to their menstrual cycle.

Although treatment options are limited, studies have shown that Vitamin E can be effective in reducing the pain severity and functional disability associated with menstrual migraines, including reducing the severity of migraine-associated symptoms: photophobia, phonophobia, and even nausea.

Sources

1. Cramp Killer
Ziaei S, Zakeri M, Kazemnejad A. A randomised controlled trial of vitamin E in the treatment of primary dysmenorrhoea. BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology. 2005;112(4):466-469. doi:10.1111/j.1471-0528.2004.00495.x.

Kashanian M, Lakeh MM, Ghasemi A, Noori S. Evaluation of the Effect of Vitamin E on Pelvic Pain Reduction in Women Suffering from Primary Dysmenorrhea. Journal of Reproductive Medicine- Chicago. 2013;58(1-2):34-38.

2. Boycott Breast Pain
Pruthi S, Wahner-Roedler DL, Torkelson CJ, Cha SS, Thicke LS, Hazelton JH, Bauer BA. Vitamin E and Evening Primrose Oil for Management of Cyclical Mastalgia: A Randomized Pilot Study. Alternative Medicine Review. 2010;15(1):59–67.

Parsay S, Olfati F, Nahidi S. Therapeutic effects of vitamin E on cyclic mastalgia. The Breast Journal. 2009;15(5):510–514. doi: 10.1111/j.1524-4741.2009.00768.x.

Oshvandi K, Shobeiri F, Nazari M. Clinical effectiveness of vitamin E and vitamin B6 for improving pain severity in cyclic mastalgia. Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research. 2015;20(6):723. doi:10.4103/1735-9066.170003.

3. Migraine Minimizer
Ziaei S, Kazemnejad A, Sedighi A. The effect of vitamin E on the treatment of menstrual migraine. Medical Science Monitor. 2009;15(1):CR16–CR19.

MacGregor EA. Prevention and treatment of menstrual migraine. Drugs. 2010;70(14):1799–1818. doi:10.2165/11538090-000000000-00000.

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