The Truth About PMS: Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Solutions
If you’ve ever found yourself dreading that week before your period, you’re not alone. PMS—or premenstrual syndrome—is something many women experience, but it doesn’t have to be something you just live with. As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, I see so many patients struggling with mood swings, bloating, irritability, and fatigue, not realizing that natural solutions exist.
In this blog, we’ll cover:
What PMS actually is
Common symptoms and causes
How a naturopathic approach can help
Natural solutions you can start today
What Is PMS?
PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, refers to a group of physical and emotional symptoms that occur in the one to two weeks before menstruation. These symptoms typically go away once your period starts.
While PMS is common, that doesn’t mean it’s “normal” to feel awful every month. In fact, PMS is often a sign that your hormones may be out of balance.
Common PMS Symptoms
PMS can look different for everyone, but some of the most common symptoms include:
Mood swings or irritability
Fatigue and low energy
Bloating or digestive changes
Breast tenderness
Food cravings (especially sugar or salty foods)
Acne or skin changes
Trouble sleeping
Anxiety or sadness
If you experience several of these regularly before your period, it may be worth digging deeper into the root cause.
What Causes PMS?
While the exact cause isn’t always clear, PMS is usually linked to hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle—especially imbalances between estrogen and progesterone. Other factors that can contribute include:
Blood sugar dysregulation
Stress and cortisol imbalances
Nutrient deficiencies (especially magnesium, B6, and calcium)
Poor liver detoxification (which affects hormone clearance)
Inflammation and gut health issues
A thorough assessment—including hormone testing if needed—can help identify what’s really going on in your body.
Natural Solutions for PMS Relief
At my Kelowna naturopathic clinic, I use an integrative, evidence-based approach to help women find long-term relief from PMS. Here are some of the most effective natural strategies we use:
1. Balance Blood Sugar
One of the biggest contributors to PMS symptoms is unstable blood sugar. Try:
Eating protein and healthy fat with every meal
Avoiding processed sugar and refined carbs
Not skipping meals
Balanced blood sugar supports better hormone balance and more stable moods.
2. Support Liver Detox
Your liver plays a huge role in clearing excess estrogen from the body. To support liver function:
Drink plenty of water
Eat cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower
Consider herbal support like milk thistle or dandelion (check with a naturopath before starting)
3. Address Nutrient Deficiencies
Many women with PMS are low in magnesium, B vitamins, and calcium. These nutrients support mood regulation, muscle relaxation, and hormone production.
I often recommend high-quality supplements and personalized nutrition plans after reviewing symptoms and lab results.
4. Try Herbal Remedies
Some herbal treatments that have shown promise for PMS include:
Chaste tree (Vitex) – helps support progesterone levels
Rhodiola – supports stress and energy
Ginger – anti-inflammatory and helpful for cramps
Remember: herbs aren’t one-size-fits-all. A naturopathic doctor can help you choose the right ones based on your symptoms and goals.
5. Track Your Cycle
Understanding where you are in your cycle can help you plan your schedule, workouts, and even meals to better support your body. I encourage all my patients to start cycle tracking—even if they aren’t trying to conceive.
When to Get Help
If PMS symptoms are interfering with your daily life, it’s time to get support. You don’t have to suffer through it or “just wait it out.”
As a naturopathic doctor in Kelowna, I work with women at every stage of life—from their first period through perimenopause—to bring their hormones into balance using:
Comprehensive lab testing
Personalized nutrition and supplements
Lifestyle coaching
Prescription support when needed
IV therapy for energy and nutrient repletion
You Deserve to Feel Good All Month Long
PMS may be common, but it doesn’t have to be your normal. If you’re ready to feel better and bring your hormones back into balance, let’s work together.
📅 Book a naturopathic appointment at Momentum Kelowna today to get started.
Ready to Take the First Step?
If you’re in the Kelowna area and looking for natural solutions for PMS, I’d love to support you.