Dairy, Gluten, and Stress: Are They Wrecking Your PMS?
In the lead-up to the silly season, we thought it’d be a great time to chat about some unexpected PMS culprits - dairy, gluten, and stress. These three can team up like the ultimate drama squad to turn your PMS into a full-blown saga. Think bloating, acne, and cramps that could put a medieval torture device to shame.
But don’t worry, sister, we’ve got your back. Let’s decode what’s really going on.
Monica Yates Said It Best
Monica Yates nailed it in her Feminine as FCK* podcast (Episode 2):
“Christmas brings out the perfect storm for hormonal chaos - stress, indulgent foods, and late nights. And guess what? Your body is taking note.”
Even if it’s not the holidays, these culprits can sabotage your hormones year-round. Let’s break down why.
Dairy Drama: The Cheese That Cheats
Ah, dairy - it’s the life of the party (hello, cheese boards!) but also the sneaky villain behind your hormonal chaos. Here’s why:
- Spikes Insulin Levels: This can cause your body to produce more sebum, leading to breakouts.
- Contains Growth Hormones: These hormones can amplify your natural swings, making PMS symptoms like bloating and cramps worse.
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Inflammation Alert: High dairy intake has been linked to inflammation, which worsens period pain and bloating.
What to Do?
- Test the Waters: Try going dairy-free for two cycles and track how your body responds.
- Switch It Up: Nut milk lattes, coconut yoghurt, and vegan cheese are your new BFFs.
Why It Matters: A 2017 study published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that dairy consumption influences insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which can exacerbate acne and inflammation
Gluten: Your Gut’s Secret Frenemy
Let’s talk bread, pasta, and pastries - the holy grail of comfort foods. But if your body doesn’t love gluten, it’s not so comforting.
- Gut Inflammation: Gluten sensitivity can inflame your gut, which plays a major role in hormone regulation.
- PMS Amplifier: The result? Bloating, irritability, and period pain that feels personal.
What to Do?
- Eliminate and Evaluate: Go gluten-free for a few weeks and see how your PMS symptoms change.
- Seek Alternatives: Think rice, quinoa, or gluten-free bread that doesn’t taste like regret.
Why It Matters: Research in the Nutrients Journal shows a link between gluten sensitivity and systemic inflammation, which can worsen PMS symptoms by impacting gut health .
Stress: The Hormonal Hijacker
- Cortisol Chaos: Stress hormones disrupt oestrogen and progesterone balance, causing mood swings, fatigue, and bloating.
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Amplifies PMS: Chronic stress exacerbates cramps and irritability, making your body feel like a battleground.
What to Do?
- Start Small: Try journaling, mindfulness, or even a five-minute stretch to unwind.
- Move It Out: Moderate exercise (think yoga or a brisk walk) lowers cortisol and boosts feel-good endorphins.
Why It Matters: A 2018 study in Psychoneuroendocrinology reveals that chronic stress contributes to hormonal imbalances and worsens physical PMS symptoms like bloating and cramps.
How Hey Sister! Can Help
You don’t have to battle hormonal chaos alone - Hey Sister! is here for you.
- Period Pain Relief: Our plant-based formula reduces inflammation and eases cramps so you can focus on life.
- PMS Support: Packed with prebiotics for gut health, stress-calming botanicals, and hormone-balancing ingredients.
- Perimenopause Help: Say goodbye to bloating and mood swings with products designed to support your changing body.
Not sure? Head to our Science Page to see how our ingredients have been trusted for centuries. Spoiler: The ancients knew their stuff.
Listen to Your Body
When it comes to dairy, gluten, and stress, your body is the best guide. Start small, test what works, and tweak your routine. With the right care and Hey Sister! on your side, you can reclaim your cycle.
We Want to Hear from You!
What’s been your biggest PMS game-changer? Did ditching dairy or gluten help? Got the ultimate trick for keeping stress at bay? Share your stories in the comments below - we’re all in this together, sister.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Dairy, gluten, and stress don’t stand a chance against a woman armed with knowledge and self-care. With simple changes and a sprinkle of Hey Sister! magic, you can feel more balanced, energised, and in control of your cycle.
Here’s to thriving through the chaos - on your terms! 🧡
