Association of Premenstrual Syndrome With Processed Food Consumption and Stress Scores in Females Aged 18-35 Years

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women globally, causing various physical and emotional symptoms. Understanding how lifestyle factors like processed food consumption and stress inuence PMS severity is crucial for effective management. Research in this area, particularly among Indian women, remains limited. This study aims to explore the association of PMS with processed food intake and stress scores among females aged 18 to 35 years. Identifying modiable risk factors could lead to targeted interventions, improving the quality of life for women affected by PMS. 150 participants were included using convenience sampling. Premenstrual symptoms were assessed with the Premenstrual Symptoms Screening Tool (PSST). Processed food intake was evaluated using a screening questionnaire for highly processed food consumption (sQHPF), a 3-day dietary recall, and a food frequency questionnaire. Stress scores were assessed using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Results showed signicant associations between demographics and PMS likelihood. Higher stress levels were signicantly associated with more severe PMS symptoms, while processed food consumption showed no signicant differences.