Healthy Diet Choices and PMS

Very likely, you’ve heard the old adage “you are what you eat,” but do you think about it often? Do you consider it when you’re in the drive-thru of a fast food chain or inhaling your 3rd cup of daily coffee? A well-rounded diet should include the right amounts of food from each food group and also include variety where possible.
Fruits and vegetables are excellent choices because they’re rich in vitamins and minerals. They’re also low in calories compared to many other choices and can often be filling. If you fill up on fruits and vegetables, you may be less-inclined to overeat at meals and gain weight.
Meats and fish are packed with essential proteins for muscles. Dairy is important for calcium and thus strong bones. Grains are perfect for gaining carbohydrates needed for energy. Whole grains like whole wheat bread and pastas and brown rice provide fiber for digestion.
A healthy diet can lessen the severity of PMS symptoms. This is because your body will be stronger and better armed with the components it needs to function properly, in addition to being more fit and resilient.
There are also foods to avoid when pursuing a healthy diet.
Staying away from high-sodium foods is a good diet choice. Many snack and processed foods contain a lot of salt so eating more whole and homemade foods can help. There are also low-sodium broths and soups and snacks readily available. They will often say “low sodium” on the package or container.
Despite the temptation of cookies and candy bars, it’s good not to overload your diet with sugar. It’s better to eat more complex carbohydrates for energy-like pasta and whole grains. They take longer for your body to digest and use so they keep you fuller longer and provide more gradual increases and decreases in blood sugar. Simple carbohydrates, like refined white sugar, may give boosts of energy but they’re short lived. It’s easy to let sugary foods take the place of healthier options, but you’ll thank yourself later if you keep the number of sugary sweets to a minimum.
Although certain kinds of fats are good and even needed, avoiding high-fat foods like cheese, butter, and ice cream can help you maintain a healthy weight and ensure they don’t replace healthier options. Avoiding these types of foods and pursuing a healthier diet like described above can ensure a better experience when those PMS symptoms roll around. Making little diet changes can make a big difference in the way you feel and look.