Do you suffer from period flu?

You may have heard of PMS (premenstrual syndrome), but have you heard of period flu?

Although not very well understood, it is certainly a 'thing' and can present with cyclical symptoms of...

• Muscle or joint pain

• Fatigue 

• Diarrhoea or constipation 

• Insomnia

• Headaches 

• Dizziness

• Low grade fever 

Theoretically, it makes sense that there is an element of hormonal fluctuations driving these symptoms and also an increase in prostaglandins (compounds in the body that cause an increase in inflammation, we see this with period pain and cramping).

Studies have also shown that women experience a heightened stress response in the luteal (pms phase) compared to the follicular phase, increasing cortisol spikes. Cortisol (which is our main stress hormone), when high, directly suppresses immune function. This exposes us to a greater risk of actually coming down with an illness such as cold, flu, cold sore, ulcer or stomach bug.

As a naturopath, I am always looking for root causes of clinical presentations, in the case of period flus we need to address hormonal imbalances, stress response and inflammation. 

We can do that via diet, lifestyle, nutraceuticals and herbal medicine. 

If you experience period flu or pms, really focus on creating a calm, safe, nourishing environment the week or so before your period is due. 

These things can include

• Bubble bath, yoga, walks, meditation, journaling or massage 

• Avoiding alcohol, sugary foods and takeaways 

• Increasing nourishing smoothies and slow cooked meals

• Adding in anti-inflammatory drinks such as turmeric latte or matcha

• Spice up your life in the kitchen with anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, cayenne, clove and cardamom. 

• Increase brassicas such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels, cauliflower, bok choy and kale to support liver function and the clearance of excess hormones.  

• Calming herbal teas such as chamomile, lemon balm or lavender 

• Magnesium citrate or glycinate 300-600 mg daily. 

Implementing these recommendations will make a BIG difference x