Marla Ahlgrimm, PMS expert, Explains the Three-Hour Complex Carbohydrate Diet

Marla AhlgrimmWomen with PMS should eat six complex carbohydrate snacks a day to better manage the symptoms of PMS, says Marla Ahlgrimm.

Proper nutrition is vital to a healthy body, says pharmacist, Marla Ahlgrimm. This is especially true of women who suffer from PMS. According to Ahlgrimm, studies conducted since the 1950s have linked low blood sugar to many symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Low blood glucose levels trigger the body to release adrenaline, the “fight or flight” hormone. When adrenaline is flowing through the blood, the body cannot metabolize other hormones – like progesterone – properly. Adrenaline, says Marla Ahlgrimm, also perpetuates feelings of aggression, panic, and tension – all outward symptoms of PMS.

Additionally, Marla Ahlgrimm explains that low blood sugar causes the body’s cells to eject any sugar that it may be storing, in order to compensate. Empty cells are flooded with water which can cause bloating, water retention, and weight gain.

A diet rich in vegetables and complex carbohydrates such as whole grain breads, cereals, or pasta can stop low blood sugar in its tracks. According to Marla Ahlgrimm, providing the body with a constant supply of complex carbohydrate starch snacks also helps maintain a steady glucose level. Women with PMS should eat at least six snack-size complex carbohydrate starchy meals a day to combat low blood sugar and PMS.

Marla Ahlgrimm clarifies that women with PMS should be careful in choosing their starches, however. Many simple carbohydrates, such as sugar, can cause the body’s blood sugar levels to roller coaster and wreak havoc on a woman’s glucose levels.

Self-induced hormone imbalance

Women are often their own worst enemies in the fight against PMS, points out Marla Ahlgrimm. This is due to over consuming simple carbohydrates which most crave premenstrually. Women who consume sweet, sugary foods instead of more slowly absorbed grains may do nothing more than push their body over the edge, making PMS symptoms more difficult to manage.

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