Mood and the Menstrual Cycle [Infographic]

The word hormone comes from the Greek hormo, meaning to move forward. That’s appropriate because these powerful chemicals keep every part of the body working properly. Estrogen and progesterone, the primary female hormones, are essential for reproduction, growth, metabolism, and immune function. However, their constant fluctuation may also wreak havoc on the way many women feel.

In an analysis of 41 published studies of women’s daily moods, more than half found a link between bad moods and menstruation. Moreover, women in the Penn Ovarian Aging Study reported an increase of depressive symptoms as they transitioned into menopause. If you feel like you’re on a hormonal roller coaster, read on to learn what research suggests about hormonal mood swings, and discover natural ways to feel better no matter where you are in your cycle or life.

Mood and the Menstrual Cycle [Infographic] | ecogreenlove — Visual by Health Perch

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If you feel like your hormones are holding you hostage, some relatively simple lifestyle changes may help.

Keep a diary of your symptoms for a few months and analyze the data
Eat foods rich in vitamin B6, omega 3 fatty acids, and zinc may also help prevent mood swings, according to some experts.
To improve your odds of a good night of sleep, make your room dark, quiet, and cool, and stick to routine sleep and waking times.
8 weeks of physical activities you enjoy might significantly reduced participants’ premenstrual symptoms.
Walking, mindfulness exercises, visiting nature, and hanging out with friends are proven ways to reduce stress.
Reduce caffeine and alcohol. Reach for a drink, such as water or herbal tea, that helps you feel calm.

If you experience mood swings that interfere with your daily life and these healthy makeovers don’t help, it may be time to check in with your doctor or naturopath. Herbs, such as chaste tree and red clover, vitamin supplements, or medical treatments may help.