Dietary Approach to Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms Alleviation – A Systematic Review

Abstract Background/Objectives: Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), experienced by women during their reproductive age, encompasses physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms before menstruation. Common symptoms include fatigue, headaches, bloating, breast tenderness, mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and sadness. PMS severity varies among individuals and can affect daily life. Nutrition plays a significant role in PMS treatment, as dietary adjustments and supplementation have shown potential in alleviating symptoms and improving overall well-being. This systematic review aims to identify, assess, and analyse the efficacy of different dietary and nutritional interventions in alleviating PMS symptoms among women in their reproductive years. Subjects/Methods: In June 2023, three electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) were consulted to undertake a literature search. The screening process involved two phases: initial screening based on titles and abstracts and subsequent analysis of full-text articles. The study followed PRISMA guidelines, and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO; the RoB2 Tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Results: Seventeen studies were included in this systematic review: eleven evaluated the effect of supplementation with micronutrients, three assessed specific diets, and three examined the impact of Zataria multi-flora essence, wheat germ, and ginger on PMS. Most studies showed an apparent reduction in PMS-related symptoms post-intervention. Eight studies had a high risk of bias, and three were unclear. Conclusion: This systematic review confirms the potential of a nutritional approach involving supplements or dietary changes in improving PMS symptoms.