pms diet

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The Dinners to Eat When You're Feeling Blue
A study published in the medical journal BJOG (for the British College of Ob-Gyns) found that when PMS-afflicted women took capsules of 30 mg of saffron every day throughout their cycle, three-quarters reported a significant reduction in symptoms like irritability and fatigue. The theory is that saffron may increase levels of feel-good serotonin, which can plummet before menstruation.

Best bets: Bouillabaisse, saffron rice, paella—all of these dishes incorporate the boldly colored spice. It can also brighten up curries, but steer clear of spicy side dishes that may upset your already sensitive stomach.