You and your friends know it: Premenstrual syndrome is nasty. Depending on the type you are experiencing, PMS can transform you into a quarrelsome bully, a sugar addict, a depressed artist or a bloated fish on days when you wished you could be in a better mood. Well, stop grieving and stop dwelling on the negative things. The good news is that you can do something to reduce and manage the symptoms of your premenstrual syndrome. Check out the following list to find out how.

1. If your menstrual cycle is regular, keep a chart and note down the dates of your period, as well as any discomforts you are experiencing. The chart helps you anticipate when and what type of PMS is likely to attack you. Normally, PMS can occur on Day 24 or as early as four days before your menstrual cycle begins.

2. Eat right and eat well. Studies show that women who have dietary deficiencies are more prone to more severe premenstrual syndrome attacks. Make sure that your diet is rich in calcium, iron, Vitamin E and Vitamin B6. Go vegetarian once in a while, and loosen up on oil, sweet and salt consumption. If you want, you may also take supplements to supply your body with primrose and progesterone. You must however consult your physician for the right dosage.

3. Engage in an active lifestyle. Sweating eliminates toxins and doing physical exercises aids in blood circulation. The more active you are, the less chances you sport in entertaining sad thoughts and in worrying about problems that could destroy your mood. Physical activities also buff you up and make your body more tolerant to the muscle cramps associated with your period.

4. Put off any problem-solving and decision-making tasks at a safe date. Check your chart from time and time, and schedule major tasks way before or way after your PMS schedule. You may regret having behaved inappropriately or having said something you should not have, when your PMS is clouding your judgment.

• If your PMS type dwells around depression, then iron out any problems or issues that could be the potential cause of your depression stage.

• If your PMS type dwells more on anxiety attacks, then move your executive meeting to another date; you may be putting your job on the line if you do otherwise.

5. Plan your relaxation and “me” time ahead. PMS is about timing. Again, check your chart and try to schedule the lightest and most-relaxing activities on the week when you are anticipating the onset of your PMS. Shop right also, especially when you are the craving type.

Although these tips cannot completely eliminate the toll of PMS symptoms on your body or on your emotions, the tips can help you manage better and reduce the nasty risks that come with your premenstrual syndrome. If in case you find any of the steps to be ineffective, remind yourself that dogs too have their days and that you, like everyone else, are entitled to your moments.