You might feel bloated, achy or grumpy before you get your period. That’s totally normal. It’s all part of PMS, or premenstrual syndrome. PMS is a bunch of symptoms that occur before or during your period. These symptoms include mood swings, headaches, back pain, tenderness in your breasts, tiredness, changes in your appetite, food cravings, slight weight gain, swollen glands and more! There’s no real explanation for PMS, but it is a common thing to experience.
One great way to help deal with PMS is to lead a healthy lifestyle.

You might have heard that exercise makes your period worse, but that is totally false. In fact, by exercising, you will help to keep your PMS under control and to keep your mind distracted from the symptoms. Exercise will help to relieve tiredness and grogginess that sometimes accompanies your period. So, if you’re feeling under the weather and mopy because you have your period, instead of vegging out and feeling sorry for yourself, get outside for a walk or trek to the gym. It will definitely help, at least for a little while.

Eat right. If you don’t eat enough or if you load up on junk foods, your period might be harder to deal with. Getting your nutrients will help you to get through PMS with more energy. Of course, if you’re craving some chocolate during this time, treat yourself to a little! Salty foods will contribute to water retention, which is the swelling you feel in your body, especially in your hands and feet. If you want to curb this uncomfortable symptom, cut out super-salty foods.

Get rest. Get an extra hour or two of sleep at night, and don’t wear yourself thin when you have your period. By getting the extra rest at night, your body will have more energy to deal with the symptoms of PMS during the day.

Click below to read about related topics.

Introduction
Understanding Your Period
Your First Period: Don't Panic!
A Day-by-Day Guide
Dealing with PMS
Hygiene
Discomfort & Pain
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Menstrual Cycle Myths