Calcium supplements for the treatment of premenstrual syndrome and PMDD
Calcium is a promising treatment for PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). All the studies done on calcium and premenstrual symptoms have shown that it provides symptom relief. In the largest study, women took 1,200 mg per day and had almost a 50% reduction in their symptoms. Some women in this study who were taking a placebo had a 30% reduction in symptoms (showing the power of positive thinking!).
A scientific study showed that women have lower calcium levels the week before their period than the week after their period. That could indicate that PMDD symptoms are partly due to low calcium levels. Also, the symptoms of people with low calcium levels were the same as those of PMS and PMDD.
There is some evidence that women with a premenstrual disorder, such as PMDD, have lower bone mass. This hasn’t been shown to be related to calcium, but it hasn’t been shown to be NOT related either. Considering most women only get half the recommended daily allowance, a supplement would help protect your bones as you age.
Since there is evidence that it helps relieve PMS symptoms and could be an effective treatment for PMDD, then it might not hurt to give it a try. Calcium supplements are generally safe and widely used. Keep in mind that calcium absorption is inhibited by too much protein, oxalic acid (found in leafy green vegetables), and alcohol. So don’t overdo it in any of these areas.
Dosage for treatment of PMDD:
- Take 900-1200 mg/day. You need to spread this out over 2-3 doses as your body can only absorb 500mg at a time. (The toxic level of calcium is 2500 mg/day).
- It should be taken with food, but not with anything high in fiber. Fiber binds to calcium and prevents your body from absorbing it.
- There are two types of supplements you can take: calcium carbonate and calcium citrate, which is less irritating to your digestive system if you have a sensitive stomach.
- You will need to take it for at least three months before you can start to notice an improvement in your symptoms.
Warnings:
Calcium supplements reduce the effectiveness of some medications, including the antibiotic tetracycline and the anticonvulsant phenytoin (also known as Dilantin). Talk to your doctor if you take any of these or if you have problems with your parathyroid gland, kidney stones, or kidney disease. Stop taking it if you start to have severe constipation, nausea, excessive fatigue, or heavy urination.