PMS and diet.

In an exclusive interview with PMS Access, Katherina Dalton, M.D., noted world authority from London, England, explained why a diet consisting of starchy foods eaten at three hour intervals is essential for women suffering from premenstrual syndrome. Dr. Dalton was responsible for coining the term PMS.

It has been widely accepted information that to maintain a steady blood sugar level, women prone to PMS need to eat small snacks of starchy food every three hours," Dr. Dalton said in the London interview with Madison based PMS Access. "Now we know why," added Dr. Dalton.

Dalton's latest research suggests that low blood sugar (glucose) levels are responsible for many PMS symptoms. Normally, progesterone molecules in the blood bind with progesterone receptors and are metabolized. However, when blood sugar levels get too low, adrenaline is released suddenly, and moves sugar from the cells into the blood. This blocks the binding action, prevents progesterone from being fully metabolized and leaves the cells empty. As a result, the cells fill with water, causing bloating and weight gain, two common PMS symptoms. In addition, the released adrenaline creates feelings of panic, aggression and tension.

Starches suggested by Dr. Dalton are flour, wheat and rye, rice, oats, potatoes and corn. Food choices include breads, crackers, pasta, popcorn, pizza, pancakes, cereals, potatoes and rice dishes.

For further information, PMS Access recommends Dr. Dalton's book, Once a Month, now in its fifth edition.