Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (302 page)

If you smoke, give it up. Smoking damages the lungs, depletes the body of nutrients, interferes with proper breathing, and compromises the immune system.

Put a castor oil pack over the chest three times a week. Castor oil packs are useful for clearing congestion. Hold a hot-water bottle over the pack for the best effects.

PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME (PMS)

There are a number of types of PMS, and it is not uncommon for women to experience more than one type during each cycle:

Anxiety—mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and tension.

Cravings—cravings for sweet foods, chocolate, or carbohydrates in the few days leading up to the period in addition to possible increased appetite, fatigue, and headaches.

Depression—a group of symptoms that includes depression, crying, confusion, forgetfulness, and poor coordination.

Hyperhydration—water retention, breast tenderness and swelling, bloating, and weight gain.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Liver stagnation.

Blood deficiency.

Hormonal imbalance (normal hormonal balance at menstruation depends on proper liver function).

Too much red meat.

Salty, sugary diet.

Stress.

Action plan

Diet can make a huge difference, both in balancing your hormones and addressing nutrient deficiencies.

EAT/DRINK

Fiber, which is found in whole grains, pulses, nuts, seeds, fruits, and vegetables, helps to remove old estrogens from the body.