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The pathophysiology of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) remains a mystery, and no effective treatment has yet been demonstrated in controlled trials. This randomized, double- blind crossover study suggests that dietary calcium supplementation may be beneficial. The authors gave 33 women with PMS either calcium carbonate (1 g daily) or placebo for three menstrual cycles; the groups then crossed over and were treated for an additional three months.
Daily symptom scores (based on questionnaires and follow- up visits) showed significant reductions in water retention, emotional changes, and cramps or back pain while the women were receiving calcium. These symptoms declined only in the luteal and menstrual phases, and not in the intermenstrual period (…