Role of nutrition in managing the premenstrual tension syndromes.

The clinical, biochemical and endocrine effects of a total dietary program were evaluated in patients with the premenstrual tension syndromes (PMTS). The program consisted of dietary guidelines and nutritional supplementation. Open trials suggested that an initial dosage of the supplement consisting of six tablets daily gave the best symptomatic relief during the first three to six months. Double-blind studies confirmed that a daily average of six tablets decreased PMTS symptom scores to significantly lower levels than did the placebo. A significantly higher percentage of PMTS patients reported feeling better on the dietary program than did those on the placebo. Although significant changes were observed in some liver function tests, the values were within the normal ranges. The dietary program, implemented for three to six months, decreased serum estradiol 17-beta and increased serum progesterone levels during the midluteal phase in PMTS patients. Nonresponders using the program should be reevaluated and treated according to the results of the reevaluation and the PMTS symptoms.