Unfortunately, far too many women deal with PMS. OverMagnesium 90% of women report premenstrual symptoms. And while the symptoms occur in a predictable pattern (some women can practically set their watches by the regularity of their periods) that doesn’t make the symptoms any more bearable.

We say enough is enough. Life doesn’t slow down for PMS and you shouldn’t have to slow down either. There’s a whole wide world to conquer out there. So it’s high time to tackle PMS head-on. Here’s everything you need to know about PMS supplements and how to choose the right one for you.

What is PMS?

To understand how supplements can help hold PMS at bay, it helps to understand what PMS is (besides Mother Nature knocking on your door to throw confetti in your face and scream, “You’re not pregnant!”)

Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a wildly common issue for women, particularly in their reproductive years (when you have your periods, which makes sense because PMS is tied to your periods). However, while most women have premenstrual symptoms of some kind, 5% to 8% of women experience PMS so severe that it significantly interferes with daily life.

Scientifically speaking, supplements for acne, PMS occurs during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, right before ovulation. This is the window when an egg can be fertilized. If the egg is not fertilized, it passes through the uterus instead of implanting there and the uterine lining breaks down, beginning the next menstrual period.

Common Symptoms

The list of PMS symptoms is long and varied, but most women only experience a handful of them. There are two groups of symptoms: physical and emotional/psychological.

Common physical symptoms include things like:

• Abdominal bloating

• Acne flare-ups

• Alcohol intolerance

• Breast tenderness

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Joint or muscle pain

Common emotional/psychological symptoms include things like:

• Appetite changes or food cravings

• Change in libido

• Crying spells

• Depressed mood

• Insomnia or changes in sleep patterns

• Irritability or anger

• Mood swings

• Poor concentration

• Social withdrawal

• Tension or anxiety

While PMS generally goes away within four days of the start of a woman’s period, every woman experiences PMS slightly differently. A small number of women routinely experience severe, disabling PMS symptoms, a form of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

What Causes PMS?

The obvious cause of PMS is monthly menstrual cycles. However, it remains unclear why some women experience PMS more strongly than others.

Several known factors can contribute to PMS, such as cyclical hormone changes tied to your period and cyclical chemical changes in the brain. Fluctuations of key mood-regulating neurotransmitters can significantly affect your mood, and if you already have low levels of these neurotransmitters, changes during your period can contribute to premenstrual depression.

Some women with severe PMS have undiagnosed or untreated depression, though depression does not cause PMS. The issue goes back to brain chemistry and hormones–if you’re already operating with insufficient neurotransmitters, period changes can make this even worse.

Because the exact cause of PMS is not clear, all currently available treatment options focus on symptom relief, not curing the problem.

Why Try Supplements?

If supplements aren’t a cure for PMS, why should you try them?

For one thing, supplements work by operating on natural bodily functions to provide relief. This makes them more sustainable than living off of ibuprofen or Aleve for a week each month.

Also, supplements can provide an accessible treatment option for some women. Many women rely on hormonal birth control to regulate hormonal fluctuations and mitigate symptoms of PMS. However, not all women can take hormonal birth control for health reasons–some avoid hormonal birth control due to mood disorders, while others have significant complications.

Plus, if your PMS is the result of an underlying health issue such as a vitamin deficiency, supplements kill two birds with one stone. Taking supplements in those cases wouldn’t just treat PMS–it would resolve various other health issues attached to vitamin deficiencies.

The Best PMS Supplements Include These Ingredients

The best PMS supplements should include a range of vitamins and essential minerals that support your body through its menstrual cycle. Vitamins B6 and D can both ease symptoms, along with calcium, iron, and magnesium. There are also other PMS supplements that can address specific symptoms such as trouble sleeping.

Let’s look at each of them in more detail.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, like many of the complex B vitamins, is like a Swiss army knife–it’s so universally useful that you should always have it within arm’s reach.

Vitamin B6 is involved in more than 100 enzyme reactions in the body, most of them concerned with protein metabolism. Taking vitamin B6 has a wide range of positive health implications, including:

• Reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease

• Reducing your risk for certain kinds of cancer

• Reducing cognitive decline over time among older adults

• Reducing nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

• And, of course, reducing PMS symptoms

One randomized crossover study looked at the effects of vitamin B6 on PMS symptoms for a group of 63 women between the ages of 18 and 49. That study found that B6 had a significant beneficial effect on emotional symptoms (i.e. depression, irritability, and fatigue) but no significant effect on PMS symptoms of any other type.

What It Treats

Because vitamin B6 has been observed as primarily useful in treating emotional symptoms, it should be taken as a supplement for that class of symptoms. For example, if you experience PMS-related depression, irritability, or fatigue (i.e. mood-related fatigue, not physical tiredness) then vitamin B6 may be beneficial to you.

For women, the recommended daily dose of vitamin B6 is 1.3 milligrams until the age of 50. At age 51, you need to boost your daily dose to 1.5 milligrams. However, if you’re recovering from alcoholism, have experienced kidney failure, or have a bowel disorder like Crohn’s or celiac disease, you will need a higher dosage of B6.

Conversely, if you take certain medications, such as oral contraceptives, tuberculosis medication, epilepsy medication, or medication for breathing issues, your B6 levels will also be affected. Talk to your doctor about how much B6 you get and how much you should use in a supplement.

The good news is that you can find a significant portion of your daily B6 requirement in food. A cup of chickpeas, for example, gets you a whopping 1.1 milligrams. You can also find it in yellowfish tuna, sockeye salmon, chicken breast, a medium banana, or even cooked potatoes.

Vitamin B12

B6 is far from the only B vitamin to keep in your arsenal. Vitamin B12, like other B vitamins, is an all-purpose vitamin.

Typically, vitamin B12 is used to support your nerves and blood cells. It’s particularly important in red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis (you know, just the little things). It can also help reduce your risk of macular degeneration and may help reduce symptoms of depression.

What It Treats

Vitamin B12’s superstar role in blood cell formation is what makes it so useful for PMS. Since it helps your body to form new blood cells, it works to replenish the blood you lose during your period, keeping your energy levels up.

The good news about vitamin B12? Unless you’re a vegan, you’re probably getting enough B12 from your diet. The vitamin is naturally found in a wide variety of animal foods, including:

• Beef liver and clams (the best sources of B12)

• Fish

• Meat

• Poultry

• Eggs

• Dairy

• Some fortified products

Vitamin B12 is also unusual in that the body can store it for a surprisingly long time. Unlike many vitamins, which the body uses and discards the excess, the human body stores excess B12 in the liver until the body needs to use it. Your liver is astonishingly good at it–it can store several years worth of vitamin B12 at any given time.

Because of this, B12 deficiency is quite rare, except in a few specific cases. Vegans and vegetarians (specifically vegetarians who don’t regularly consume dairy or eggs) are prone to B12 deficiency because plants don’t naturally contain B12. Also, individuals with digestive disorders or pernicious anemia may have issues absorbing B12.

If any of those situations apply to you, talk to your doctor about whether a B12 supplement could help you. However, make sure to check with your doctor about a recommended dosage–remember, your body is excellent at storing B12, so you don’t want to take too much.

Calcium

Did your parental unit harp on you about drinking your milk? Turns out, they were on the money–particularly when it comes to PMS.

Milk is the most popularly known source of calcium, an essential mineral. Humans store calcium primarily in our bones and teeth since we use calcium as a building block to support healthy bone structure. It also helps play a role in regulating the release of various hormones and enzymes, which means that calcium plays an indirect role on most major bodily functions.

What It Treats

While calcium is best known as a builder of healthy bones, research shows that it’s quite useful in treating mood-related symptoms of PMS.

One study of 66 women taking 500 mg supplements of calcium daily for two months saw significant changes in:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Emotional changes

• Water retention

• Somatic changes (i.e. breast tenderness, bloating, joint and muscle pain)

Of all the supplements on this list, calcium has some of the strongest scientific backings.

Many recommendations say that adults between the ages of 19 and 50 should get 1,000 mg of calcium daily, while teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 should get about 1,300 mg per day. However, the World Health Organization disagrees, recommending about 500 mg per day.

The higher calcium recommendation comes from old scientific reasoning about bone density. Your bone density drops when bone breakdown outpaces bone formation, so scientists originally reasoned that a higher calcium balance in the blood would keep the body from drawing calcium out of the bones.

However, the 1,000 mg recommendation is based on a few brief studies in the 70s which only lasted a few weeks. In reality, your calcium balance (like your B12 levels) is determined over the years. Also, the studies were based on the logic that higher calcium would reduce the risk of bone fractures, which has since been proven false.

If you go by the 500 mg recommendation, eating right can help bolster your calcium naturally. Collard greens, for example, provide 350 mg per 8 ounces, while broccoli provides 200 mg per 8 ounces. But the big hitter for most people is milk (skim, low-fat, or whole) which provides 300 mg per 8 ounces.

However, many people don’t necessarily get enough calcium. Women of childbearing age whose menstrual periods stop because they exercise too much, eat too little, or both are at significant risk. Vegans and vegetarians who don’t eat dairy lose access to most major calcium sources, as do people with lactose intolerance.

Magnesium

In case you haven’t noticed yet, most of the major supplements on this list are heavy hitters in your overall health. Magnesium is no exception.

It’s a cofactor in more than 300 enzyme systems in the body. It’s a prerequisite for DNA and RNA synthesis and plays a major role in blood glucose control, muscle and nerve function, and blood pressure regulation. Plus, it helps transport other key minerals (like calcium and potassium) across your cell membranes.

Your body keeps a small store of magnesium available, generally about 25 mg at any given time, with 50% to 60% of that stored in your bones and the rest in your soft tissues.

What It Treats

The trouble with magnesium is that while the mineral is good for your health, current research seems to indicate that (like PMS) its usefulness varies by person.

One study found that magnesium levels are significantly compromised in women suffering from PMS, though the study consisted of 62 university students. A separate study looking at the efficacy of magnesium infusions found that magnesium had little advantage over the placebo.

On the other hand, a separate study found that magnesium in combination with B6 helped reduced PMS mean scores across the board.

So, what gives?

One explanation is that some groups are at a higher risk of magnesium deficiency than others, and taking a magnesium supplement may prove more beneficial to them than other groups. Diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases like Crohn’s and celiac disease, chronic alcoholism, and certain medications can all increase your risk of magnesium deficiency.

If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor about whether magnesium could help you. Also, if you take any medications, ask your doctor if those medications may interfere with your ability to absorb magnesium, creating a magnesium deficiency.

Herbal Remedies

If you’re not a fan of taking a batch of pills every morning, certain herbal remedies have been shown to be effective in reducing PMS symptoms. Some of them have been used for centuries as a home remedy, long before humans invented multivitamins.

That said, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate herbal remedies and doctors cannot prescribe them. Herbal remedies would be consumed as an over-the-counter remedy and dosage is far less precise, so treat them with caution and always check with your doctor to see if you take any medications or have health issues that could cause complications.

Chasteberry

Chasteberry, the fruit of the chaste tree, has been used to treat various ailments for centuries. The plant itself is a delight for gardeners, but if PMS is your first concern, focus on the berry.

Most women who use berry know of it as a treatment for hormonal imbalances brought on by periods. As such, it can help treat some symptoms of PMS like bloating, low mood, and breast pain. You can find the fruit dried and added to liquids, capsules, and tablets.

If you have a hormone-sensitive condition, make sure to talk to your doctor before trying chasteberry. And if you do add chasteberry (or any herbal supplement) make sure to ease into it by starting at a low dosage.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose is a plant native to North America with lovely yellow flowers that bloom in the evening (thus the name). Traditionally, Native Americans used the whole evening primrose plant as a treatment for bruises, while the roots were used as a treatment for hemorrhoids.

Today, many people use evening primrose oil and a home remedy for eczema, PMS, breast pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and menopause, among other conditions.

The tricky part about evening primrose is that while some women swear by it, there are very few scientific studies examining the benefits of evening primrose and those studies that do exist have conflicting results. It’s safe to take for a short time, though some people report mild side effects like headaches and stomach upset.

St. John’s Wort

While some herbs on this list have shaky results or limited research, St. John’s Wort is not one of them. The herb has been studied extensively, particularly for its effects on depression and interactions with other medications.

St. John’s Wort is a long-recognized herbal treatment for depression. Some studies show that it has similar effects to prescription antidepressants and may prove useful in the treatment of mild depression, including PMS-related depression.

However, St. John’s Wort is known to have significant, sometimes life-threatening interactions with several medications. It is known to weaken the effects of several medications, including:

• Antidepressants

• Birth control pills

• Cyclosporine, a medication which prevents the body from rejecting transplanted organs

• Digoxin, a heart medication

• Some HIV drugs

• Some cancer medications

Taking St. John’s Wort with antidepressants is considered unsafe, as antidepressants combined with the herb can lead to an unsafe spike in serotonin levels with potentially serious consequences.

Dandelion Leaf

Fun fact: those dandelions you love to butcher as ugly weeds are quite nutritious.

Yes, dandelions. They’re an excellent source of vitamins K, A, and C and have substantial amounts of calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium. As a home remedy, the dandelion leaf has long been used to decrease swelling.

The beauty of hipster foodies is that you can now find dandelion leaves at some farmer’s markets. Whole Foods even carries dandelion greens these days. But whatever you do, don’t pick dandelion leaves from your yard–the last thing you want is to ingest harsh weed killers and fertilizers you use on your lawn.

Unless, of course, you let your lawn grow au naturel and don’t use any funky chemicals. In which case, pick some greens, clean them, and give it a whirl.

Make PMS a Thing of the Past

We know that PMS is real and that it has a detrimental effect on the lives of far too many women. And we say it’s time to change the way you think about PMS.

Our PMS supplements have shown positive results–many of our customers now swear by them over other PMS treatments. Instead of taking a handful of pills, you can get an easy-to-use, time-release patch that provides all-day treatment to keep your worst PMS symptoms in check.

If you’re tired of letting PMS hold you back, click here to check out our available supplements today.

Other Resources:

• Modern Man Male Virility Supplements all in One Patch
• Magnesium for Anxiety: What You Need to Know
• 8 surprising ways Omega-3 benefits your skin
• weight loss simplified: Discover the best bariatric vitamins to support and enhance your weight loss
• B12 Vape – The Good, The Bad & The Alternative
• Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia
• Breaking Down the Vitamin Absorption Chart: How Vitamins Are Absorbed
• Anti-Aging Supplements – Backed by Science

The post The Ultimate Guide to PMS Supplements appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

It’s the latest offering from the 4.2 trillion dollar wellness industry, and it’s appealing for a number of reasons. We’ll take a look at the way to get vitamins absorbed through your skin and the science behind the vitamin patch.

What Is a Vitamin Patch?

The fancy name for the vitamin patch is topical delivery system. Basically, that means the nutrients are delivered through the skin. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first topical patch for treating motion sickness back in 1979. Since then, the agency has approved patches to help people quit smoking and prevent pregnancy.

The vitamin patch works in similar ways. Nutrients are loaded onto the patch which is then applied to the skin, just like a sticker.

The vitamin patch allows nutrients to pass through your skin directly into your bloodstream. In this way, it bypasses the digestive system. Why is that helpful? It has everything to do with the way our bodies absorb nutrients.

The Digestive Process

The nutrients our body needs fall into two, fundamental categories, macronutrients and micronutrients.

There are five types of macronutrients:

1. Carbohydrates

2. Proteins

3. Fats and cholesterol

4. Fiber

5. Water

There are two, basic categories of micronutrients:

1. Vitamins

2. Minerals

Macronutrients serve as your body’s fuel sources. That’s why we need to eat a certain amount of protein and carbs to keep up our energy. Micronutrients are the elements that help release the energy in the macronutrients.

But, neither kind of nutrient will help us if our bodies don’t absorb them. That’s where our digestive system comes into play. When you eat a sandwich, it would just sit in your stomach and do virtually nothing if your digestive system didn’t process it or absorb it.

It’s the absorption process that allows your body to use the nutrients in food for fuel. Think of it this way: when you put gas in your car, the gas sits in the tank. It could sit there forever if you didn’t start the engine and allow the car to process the gas and use that fuel.

As your body digests food, it absorbs the nutrients and uses them for fuel or energy.

The Importance of Vitamins

Did you know your body needs about 30 vitamins, minerals, and dietary components but can’t make them? That’s why we need to eat the right foods and take the right vitamins and minerals through supplements.

All those nutrients help us heal, they protect our immune systems and they can defend our bones against breaks. Here are some examples of important vitamins and how they help us:

• Vitamin B9, also called folic acid, helps to prevent birth defects when taken throughout pregnancy.

• Vitamin B12 helps with our metabolism. It also helps build red blood cells and maintain the central nervous system.

• Vitamin C helps build and maintain healthy teeth and gums. It also helps the body absorb iron.

Vitamins and other nutrients even offer some anti-aging benefits. They reduce wrinkles and minimize the risk of age-related diseases.

Vitamins Absorbed Through a Patch

The vitamin patch bypasses the digestive system to allow nutrients to flow directly into the bloodstream through the skin. There are a number of advantages to atopical delivery system compared to a pill.

For one thing, people using a patch can avoid unpleasant side effects like nausea sometimes associated with vitamins in pill form. The patch also provides a continuous delivery of the vitamins, rather than a single dose.

The patch is also helpful for the 40 percent of adults who have trouble swallowing pills. With the patch, they can simply peel and stick.

Additionally, a number of factors can affect the way our bodies obtain the nutrients we need from food, making the patch a more effective way to get our vitamins.

Factors affecting digestion can include:

Stress.

Stress can cause excess stomach acid. That can lead to something called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). An over-abundance of stomach acid can interfere with digestion and make it difficult for some patients to get the vitamins and minerals their bodies need.

Medications.

Some medications, even over-the-counter drugs, can interfere with the absorption of some vitamins. For example, corticosteroids can affect the way our bodies absorb calcium and vitamin D.

Anti-acids taken to relieve heartburn can also interfere with our body’s digestive process.

Alcohol.

Alcohol can damage the lining of the stomach and prevent the body from processing food effectively. That’s why some doctors caution their patients to drink in moderation to avoid the risk of becoming nutrient-deficient.

Exercise.

There’s a reason the companies that make sports drinks use athletes in their commercials. Intense workouts can be dehydrating, draining the body of valuable minerals. When you sweat, you lose water and electrolytes. Sports drinks are often consumed to replace them.

How Do I Use the Vitamin Patch?

You apply the patch to clean skin anywhere on your body. Most people find that the upper arm works well, but you can apply it to your leg or even your stomach if you want.

You aren’t limited to a specific time of day, either. The important thing is to find a schedule that works for you. You can apply the patch first thing in the morning, at lunch or at bedtime.

Each patch should be replaced every eight hours. The patches typically come in a 30-day supply. Some patients wear more than one patch at a time, if they’re taking more than one vitamin. For example, a patient could use a B12 patch along with a calcium patch and wear them at the same time.

Final Thoughts

Vitamins absorbed through a patch may be the perfect solution for anyone who needs an alternative to pills or shots. It allows the user to avoid side-effects from pills, since the vitamins are absorbed through the skin. Patches are even available for children 12 and older.

We would love to talk with you about your nutritional needs and how we can help. Please contact us any time by email or phone.

Other Resources:

• Supplements for Acne
• Everything You Need to Know About Taking Topical Biotin
• B12 Shots & B12 Injections: The Good, Bad and Alternative!
• 8 Surprising Omega 3 Benefits for Your Skin

The post How Are Vitamins Absorbed Through Your Skin? The Science Behind Patches appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

This means that you need to get enough vitamins in your body every day from the food you eat. That is why doctors recommend and prescribe vitamin supplements to keep all the processes running correctly and to ensure that you feel good all day.

One of the latest methods that people use to get these vitamins absorbed into their bodies are Vitamin Patches. However, you need to know how effective these patches are. If you have a condition like post-bariatric surgery that are at a higher risk of nutrient deficiencies, you need to be sure that you are buying something that will add value to your life.

Some experts say that with just one topical vitamin patch, you can enhance your focus, insomnia, acne, weight gain, reduce stress and hangovers and even eliminate PMS. How accurate are these statements? Read on to find out.

Use of Topical Vitamin Patch

Traditionally, scientists have assumed that the only way for the body to receive nutrients is by ingesting them in whole foods and in chemical form as tablets. However, with topical patches, it will be easier for people to get the nutrients they need without feeling like they are always under medication. There are also people who do not feel like eating and do not need to feel like they are being forced to do so.

There have been studies by the US military on how soldiers can use patches to get nutrients delivered to their bodies during the high-intensity conflict. During these times, the soldiers may find it challenging to get food and nutrition. Therefore, topical vitamin patches are more help than most people presume.

There are also times when a person may need certain nutrients in their body, but the harsh conditions in the stomach, making it difficult for them to get it in the levels they need. The Topical Vitamin Patch will solve the problem by enabling one to receive the nutrients required without ingesting any foods.

Topical Vitamin Patch Structure and Function

The skin is more resilient than people give it credit for. It’s meant to be an impenetrable barrier that does not allow any chemicals and other substances to get through it. This is a good thing because it is the largest organ in the body.

Imagine what would happen if your skin absorbed everything you touched into your body. Even the lotion you apply to keep it moist would be a hazard to your health. It wouldn’t be pleasant.

Your skin can only absorb fat-soluble or lipophilic substances. Patches contain tiny pieces of nutrients in fat-soluble forms, which make it easy for your skin to absorb these nutrients. The patches rely on the principle that most nutrients can’t only be absorbed orally but also through the skin. The medical industry for years has applied this system for several years. These include nicotine therapy, hormone therapy, and angina medication delivery.

The delivery of the nutrients through the skin allows them to direct access to the bloodstream. The patches have taken advantage of these technologies successfully to deliver amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other health supplements.

The body can sustain these nutrients for up to 6 hours, which provides a major advantage as compared to traditional methods. In the end, it ensures optimal efficacy.

The nutrients are also natural and do not contain any additives, preservatives, or chemicals. The companies use the same format used when making nutritional supplements.

How Do They Deal with Over-Obstruction?

The nutrients permeates the skin in a controlled way due to the patch’s structural properties. It allows the nutrients to help the body without overloading it.

While the body requires nutrients and minerals, too much of them can be harmful to the body. It can cause more harm than good. That is why these companies work hard to ensure that the amounts are accurate and that the body absorbs the ingredients only a small amount at a time.

One side of the patch has the nutrients and its structural composition allows it to penetrate through the adhesive and get into the skin. The patch is them adhered to the skin for maximum efficiency.

How the Penetration Works

The skin has three layers. The epidermis is the first layer and the outermost layer. It contains the primary barrier referred to as Stratum Corneum. This is the layer where the patch is placed.

The second layer is the dermis. This contains connective tissue that gives the skin its elasticity and structure. This is where the hair follicles and the sweat glands are found. This is the layer that transmits the nutrients to the deepest layer called the hypodermis.

Once the nutrients get to the hypodermis, they are transmitted to the bloodstream therein. From there, the blood will carry the nutrients throughout the body through the circulation system.

Benefits of a Topical Vitamin Patch Compared to Traditional Drug Delivery Systems

First and foremost, people will never feel like they are being forced to take pills, liquids, and powders. With these patches, the vitamins will get into the bloodstream without making them feel like specimens in a lab. The body heat of the patient activates that patch prompting it to release.

Instead of getting one large dose, a patient only gets small doses. The patches use the barriers on the skin to achieve constant permeation, so the ingredients gets through a small dosage at a time.

Your Vitamin Intake Is More Efficient

When nutrients are given orally, the acidic conditions in the stomach may make it less effective. The topical vitamin patch has shown that it delivers the nutrients through the skin without giving patients any discomfort and pain. This makes it an excellent option for kids and adults who have trypanophobia.

For more information on how the patches work and where you can buy them, contact us.

• Revitalize with our Iron Plus Topical Patch for Anemia – Try it now: Iron Plus Topical Patch (Iron Patches for Anemia)

Other Resources:

• Fat-Soluble vs. Water-Soluble: Comparing Vitamins’ Absorption Abilities
• 8 Surprising Omega 3 Benefits for Your Skin.

The post Topical Vitamin Patch: How Do They Work? appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

What’s the Problem with Sunscreen?

There’s no question that it’s important to protect your skin from the sun. It reduces the risk of skin cancer and prevents premature aging. But in recent years, serious issues have been identified with summer skincare and the way that we protect ourselves. These include vitamin D malabsorption, negative environmental effects, and reports of allergens in ingredient formulas.

Applying sunscreen prevents the body from absorbing vitamin D, an essential nutrient for strong bones and healthy muscle tissue. People are spending an increasing amount of time indoors and using chemical sunscreen when they do venture out, which is part of the reason that so many people are deficient. There’s also evidence that the oxybenzone found in sunscreens is leading to coral bleaching. The Environmental Working Group claims that it is a key contributor to reef deformity so many people are looking at sunscreen alternatives to protect natural eco-systems. There’s also the added problem of chemical ingredients in sunscreen (like zinc oxide) becoming unstable over time, meaning they’re less effective and more likely to cause allergy issues.

What’s the Best Sunscreen Alternative?

If you want a safe and effective sunscreen alternative, then there are several options available. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants (like fruits and vegetables) will help your body to protect itself on the inside and provide numerous health benefits. Seed oils, plant extracts, and physical barriers can also be used for external sun protection. Best of all, they are natural sunscreen alternatives so don’t contain harsh chemicals that can damage our health and environment. Here’s a rundown of some of the best ways to protect yourself from the sun, including the level of protection provided (ranging from SPF 6 to 50).

Shea Butter

Shea butter can prevent sun damage on par with an SPF factor of 6 to 10. It contains vitamin A and E, both of which are antioxidants that can protect skin from free radical damage. This type of butter is also incredibly hydrating and helps to prevent premature aging. If you have an uneven skin tone, then it can also help to balance it out while restoring elasticity.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is usually associated with after-sun treatment as it’s amazingly effective at reducing sunburn. But it can also be used as a preventative sunscreen when applied before going out. Aloe Vera protects the skin by blocking around 20% of sunlight so it’s still important to cover up and limit the time spent in direct sun exposure. But it can be a helpful sunscreen alternative if you’re running errands around town and expect to be in and out of the sun for brief periods.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil may be touted as a cure-all for most ailments but in the case of sunscreen it’s actually true. It provides the equivalent of an SPF 10 so isn’t suitable for strong sunlight and may not be enough to protect you in the middle of the day (depending where in the world you live). Coconut oil also contains vitamin E to keep skin soft and healthy, plus smells delicious too.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil is packed with fatty acids that support natural skin health along with vitamins A, D, and E. This natural alternative delivers SPF protection anywhere between 4 and 15 so you’ll still need to be careful when the sun is at its strongest. The handy thing about avocado oil is that you can buy it at most supermarkets and grocery stores, so it’s easy to get your hands on.

Sesame Oil

Using sesame oil as a sunscreen alternative can block up to 30% of the sun’s rays from your skin. It’s another one that’s available from local supermarkets and isn’t too expensive (especially when compared to conventional sunscreens). You’ll still need to reapply it frequently but this seems like a small price to pay for avoiding nasty chemicals and protecting our environment.

Wheatgerm Oil

Wheatgerm oil delivers SPF protection of around 20 making it substantially more effective than some of the other oils on this list. It also contains vitamin E and K which aid skin health and prevent premature aging. This oil is another one that targets free radicals caused by UVA and UVB rays and stop them from causing serious damage.

Carrot Seed Oil

Carrot seed oil is rich in beta carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin A. These have antioxidant properties that counteract the effects of free radicals. Carrot seed oil delivers a high SPF of between 38 and 40 making it one of the most effective on this list. It also provides moisturization and can help to heal burns and wounds.

Red Raspberry Seed Oil

Red raspberry seed oil can provide SPF protection from 28 all the way up to 50. It has the strongest potential for preventing sun damage while also moisturizing skin. However, it’s not likely to be available at your local grocery store so you may need to hunt this one down online.

Sunscreen Patches

The best sunscreen alternative is to use a patch that protects you from the inside out. Choosing one that contains Polypodium Leucotomos (a tropical fern extract) can help you benefit from the same protective effects that plants use in the sun. It acts as an antioxidant that increases your skin’s tolerance to the sun. Because it works from the inside out, it’s thought to be able to penetrate layers of the skin that sunscreens and oils can’t. Plus, it contains a range of other nutrients with antioxidant properties including vitamin C, D, and E.

Check Out Our Sun Away Patch

The Sun Away Plus patch is formulated to help support the resistance of ultraviolet radiation and neutralization of free radicals that lead to premature skin aging. It contains a unique combination of nutrients and natural compounds with proven antioxidant properties. This includes Polypodium Leucotomos, plus your daily requirements of vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, and selenium. These micronutrients support your skin’s natural ability to withstand UV rays, repair surface-level damage, and protect against harmful free radicals.

• 8 Surprising Omega 3 Benefits for Your Skin.

The post Sunscreen Alternative – A Patch To Replace Your Sunblock appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

The Issue with Sunscreen

Applying sunscreen is a daily part of many people’s routine. Its anti-aging and cancer-preventing benefits have been drilled into us from a young age. So, we keep our bathrooms stocked and never head on a summer holiday without it. But over the years, several issues with sunscreen have emerged and made people look for other alternatives.

One key issue is that it completely hinders your ability to absorb vitamin D. We rely on the sun to provide this vitamin as it’s not one that we can get much of from food alone. Nutritionists recommend spending short periods of time in the sun (15-20 minutes) to ensure your body produces enough vitamin D. However, wearing sunscreen prevents the body from absorbing the rays it needs to do so. Without sufficient levels, you may not be able to properly absorb calcium and have a greater risk of both cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Then there’s the environmental issue caused by sunscreen. One of the chemicals that’s commonly found in it (oxybenzone) has been shown to contribute to coral bleaching. Usually contained in spray-on sunscreens, the Environmental Working Group also claims that it causes reef deformity and death. Numerous sunscreen chemicals have also been found in fish worldwide which may have negative knock-on effects for the food chain. For reasons like this, Hawaii is currently trying to ban the use of sunscreen and encourage other less environmentally damaging alternatives.

Some people are also concerned by the chemicals used in sunscreens. Although they’re rigorously tested by the FDA, it’s been claimed that they can degrade over time. Once this happens, they are thought to become less stable and interact in ways that they wouldn’t usually. This includes affecting the behavior of hormones and causing allergies. Both mineral sunscreens using zinc oxide and chemical ones with oxybenzone have been the cause of concern for some people.

However, there’s no question that using sun protection is important. We know that UV rays can cause skin cancer and lead to premature aging. There are certain times of day when we should simply minimize sun exposure by staying in the shade and wearing clothing that covers our skin. But it’s not always feasible to do this, especially if your job involves being outdoors. Plus, many of us enjoy spending time in the sunshine and taking advantage of fine weather. So, is there a safe and effective alternative to sunscreen?

What Is A Good Substitute for Sunscreen?

If you’re looking for an effective alternative to sunscreen, then there are natural compounds that have also been shown to work. Many plants produce phytochemicals that protect them from harsh UV rays and allow them to thrive in sunny environments. These compounds are rich in anti-oxidants which help to protect against ultraviolet radiation. This prevents oxidative damage which is ones of the causes of sunburn and (over a prolonged period) skin cancer. Green tea, vitamin C, vitamin E, and Polypodium Leucotomos have all been suggested as dietary supplement compounds that protect against the sun.

History of Polypodium Leucotomos

Polypodium Leucotomos (PL) has been consumed since Mayan times and used to treat a variety of different health issues. It’s a tropical fern that’s common to regions of Central and South America. The plant is usually found in the rainforest and is particularly popular amongst indigenous people in Honduras. It was supposedly made into a form of tea by the Mayans who drank it thousands of years ago. But it’s remained popular and became available as an over-the-counter product in the 1970s. Historically, the plant has been known by a number of different names, including calaguala, anapsos, fougère, Samambaia Heliocare, Golden Polypody, golden serpent fern, cabbage palm fern, Kalawalla, Polypodiaceae, and most recently, PL.

How Polypodium Works

Polypodium Leucotomos works by increasing your skin’s tolerance to ultraviolet light so that it doesn’t burn as quickly. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, ‘the main understanding is that Polypodium Leucotomos acts as an antioxidant, so it protects the skin from oxidative damage caused by sun exposure’. Because it works from the inside out, it’s thought to be able to penetrate layers of the skin that sunscreens can’t.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this compound are what give it the edge in terms of sun protection. Because of its high concentration of antioxidants, PL can reduce the number of free radicals caused by UV light. These free radicals are what cause havoc at a cellular level and lead to mutations that can result in cancer. It decreases ultraviolet-induced damage so that fewer free radical are produced in the first place. This also benefits our skin health long-term since it extends the life of DNA which can be beneficial for anti-aging.

Having anti-inflammatory properties also enables Polypodium Leucotomos to support the body’s reaction to sunlight. It has been shown to reduce skin redness which is common after being exposed to sunlight. It is also associated with preventing sunburn which is likely due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics. The cytokines involved in inflammation associated with autoimmune diseases can also be inhibited by PL.

Polypodium Effects at a Cellular Level

The effectiveness of Polypodium Leucotomos is thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory abilities. But just how does it work at a cellular level? What are it’s mechanisms of action? Although scientists don’t yet fully understand every aspect, it has been discovered how some of the processes happen. Here are a few of the things that are going on deep inside the skin cells:

• The antioxidant compound in Polypodium Leucotomos extract decreases ultraviolet induced free-radicals. It does this by binding to the lone electron so that the free radical can’t attach itself to anything else. This stops it from causing oxidative damage which leads to mutations and sometimes cancer.
• PL stops immune cells from releasing chemicals that directly cause inflammation and suppresses enzymes involved in inflammatory processes.
• It restricts the depletion of Langerhans cells which help to protect against skin infections.
• Clinical trials show that PL is associated with greater P53 gene expression, responsible for suppressing tumors.
• It also prevents UVB rays from causing DNA damage which can lead to mutations.
• Research shows that it increases key enzymes that contribute to the blood’s antioxidant capacity.
• Plus, it stops collagen and other skin tissues from degrading by inhibiting enzymes involved in the process.

Although these are seemingly tiny chemical reactions in our body, they have an exceptionally big impact on our skin. When combined together, it’s clear that this tropical fern holds a great amount of promise for both sun protection and anti-aging. This is supported by scientific research conducted on human subjects. A blind placebo-controlled study carried out by Harvard University found that oral Polypodium Leucotomos was associated with a significant decrease in UV-related skin damage. This is supported by other randomized double-blind placebo studies on healthy volunteers which have looked at its UV protection benefits.

Other benefits for Polypodium

Polypodium has also been linked with several other health benefits. These include reducing sunburn severity, autoimmune disorders, aiding psoriasis treatment, and vitiligo.

• Sunburn severity – research shows that oral Polypodium Leucotomos extract has the potential to reduce the impact of UV radiation so that sunburn and sun damage are less severe.
• Atopic dermatitis – polypodium is often used as a treatment for eczema and other inflammatory skin complaints.
• Autoimmune disorders – tests have shown that the compound can inhibit inflammatory cytokines which are a contributing factor to autoimmune disorders. However, further research is required to prove that it’s effective outside of a lab in real life settings.
• Treatment of Psoriasis – double-blind placebo-controlled studies have shown that taking PL can aid PUVA treatment by diminishing the harmful side effects of skin damage or skin cancer.
• Treatment of Vitiligo Vulgaris – taking the compound in combination with ultraviolet treatment was shown to improve its effectiveness and increase the repigmentation of affected skin.

Scientists are continuing to research the potential benefits of polypodium in the hope that its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be harnessed in other ways.

What are Polypodium Leucotomos Side Effects?

You might now be wondering, are there side effects to Polypodium Leucotomos? Well, like most natural compounds, some people may have an adverse reaction. If you have an allergy to ferns, then ingestion or topical application is not recommended. Some people have reported indigestion or an itchy skin condition as side effects of Polypodium. There are other species of fern extract that are associated with low blood pressure and drowsiness. Although these haven’t been observed with Polypodium Leucotomos, it’s not recommended that people with heart conditions take it. It’s also not advised for pregnant or breastfeeding women. However, most people do not experience any adverse reaction and PatchMD products are all latex, lactose, gluten, and sugar-free.

Check Out All the Other Ingredients in our Sun Away Patch

There are a number of other nutrients that have antioxidant properties and support healthy skin. We combined them with Polypodium Leucotomos in a topical patch form so the ingredients can be absorbed directly into the skin. These micronutrients include:

• Vitamin B3 – effective in preventing and treating sun spots along with some common skin cancers.
• Vitamin C – a strong antioxidant proven to reduce damage from free radicals.
• Vitamin D – produced in the presence of sunlight but needed in supplement form if you spend a lot of time indoors or live in cloudy climates.
• Vitamin E – another vitamin with antioxidant properties that can protect against damaging rays.
• Vitamin K – works in combination with vitamin D to regulate calcium for strong bones and healthy blood vessels.
• Selenium – protects the skin against UV damage by reducing oxidative stress.

Check Out Our Sun Away Patch

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun causes severe oxidative damage and photoaging to the skin. Sun Away Plus is formulated to help support the resistance of ultraviolet radiation and neutralization of free radicals that lead to premature skin aging. It contains a unique combination of nutrients and natural compounds with proven antioxidant properties. In addition to Polypodium Leucotomos, the Sun Away Plus patch includes your daily requirements of vitamin B3, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin K, and selenium. These micronutrients support your skin’s natural ability to withstand UV rays, repair surface-level damage, and protect against harmful free radicals.

Our patches are also suitable for people with many different forms of allergies. They’re free from latex, gluten, wheat, casein, milk, egg, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, soy, and corn. They don’t contain any GMOs, MSG, fillers, artificial dyes, sugars, colors, flavorings, or preservatives. So, you can be confident that you’re only consuming the nutrients you need and nothing else.

Each pack contains a 30-day supply of patches to help your skin remain healthy whatever the weather. They can be used as part of an anti-aging skincare regime that supports your body from the inside out. Instead of applying creams and lotions to the outer layer of your skin, patches allow active ingredients to be naturally absorbed. Order a pack today and experience the protective benefits for yourself.

Other Resources:

• Everything You Need to Know About Taking Topical Biotin
• E8 Surprising Omega 3 Benefits for Your Skin
• Anti-Aging Supplements – Backed by Science

The post Natures Alternative To Sunscreen is called Polypodium Leucotomos appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

Read our Article on the Benefits of Glutathione to find out more!

Other Resources:

• Breaking Down the Vitamin Absorption Chart: How Vitamins Are Absorbed

Glutathione Plus Topical Patch

SHOP OUR GLUTATHIONE PATCH

The post Glutathione Benefits appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

Like men, women suffer from severe conditions that can inhibit their health and cause them tremendous difficulty in their daily lives. These physical difficulties like PMS are directly related to their physiological make up due to gender. The problem is that PMS is often referred to as a myth in the popular culture, furthering a damaging and negative perspective. Pre-Menstrual Syndrome, however, is a medical reality and should never be referred to as a myth. It is a real and difficult medical condition that women experience on a monthly basis. Patch MD recognizes the challenges of PMS and rejects the PMS is a Myth propaganda. We support women and provide two specialty topical patches to address the symptoms of this challenging condition the PMS Day Relief Patch and the PMS Night Relief Patch.

The symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome are real enough, and an immense amount of time has been spent on its research. Research in this direction still continues in order to identify the symptoms of PMS. It has been a subject of scientific work since the advent of modern science in the 19th century. As a result, there is a valid argument that the proposition of PMS as a myth is negative propaganda. According to medical research, it is known that most women experience PMS symptoms like discomfort before their menstrual periods. This is something that is considered to be very normal. A significant number of women also suffer from PMS symptoms that are more intense and almost disabling.

The PMS Day Relief Patch is the best natural and all-in-one method of alleviating the challenging symptoms of PMS. Why should a woman suffer when she can find an answer with all-natural ingredients? By applying the time-released topical path technology to the challenges of a woman’s menstrual cycle, the PMS Day Relief Patch can help to ease a variety of difficult symptoms. The symptoms of PMS vary from woman to woman and there is no definite way of determining how severely an individual can be affected.

By delivering maximum all-day relief, the PMS Day Relief Patch can help to improve a woman’s overall hormonal balance, sleep cycles and general mental stability. The specially designed PMS Relief technology delivers surprising results with the convenience of the easy once-a-day application. Such a treatment can replace the burden of taking up to eight pills a day to address discomfort and help girls and young women in the restricted environment of public schools. When schools propagate the PMS myth, young girls can find themselves in a world of trouble.

It is thought that premenstrual syndrome might be associated with changes in estrogen and progesterone levels in women. However, the exact causes have not been determined. With the number of proven medical papers and the known symptoms, it can be said without question that PMS is not a myth. In fact, the claim that PMS is a myth is an offensive statement, not just to women, but also to all human beings who celebrate awareness and enlightenment. It is a genuine problem that is faced by women all over the world. In addition, PMS can cause many nighttime difficulties, including loss of sleep and cramping.

Patch MD addresses these problems with the PMS Night Relief Patch, which is the best natural and all-in-one method of alleviating the pain and cramping of PMS that causes restless nights. By applying the time-released topical path technology to the challenges of a woman’s menstrual cycle, the PMS Night Relief Patch can help to ease a variety of difficult symptoms. Delivering maximum all-night relief, the PMS Night Relief Patch can help to improve a woman’s overall hormonal balance, sleep cycles and general mental stability. The specially designed PMS Relief technology delivers surprising results with the convenience of the easy application.

In the end, PatchMD wants to be perfectly clear the proposition that PMS is a myth is nothing less than damaging propaganda that falsifies a medical reality. PMS is a challenge to all women, and PatchMD has applied topical patch technology to the problem. With the combination of the PMS Day Relief Patch and the PMS Night Relief Patch, PatchMD offers workable solution that helps women across board address this monthly challenge. Finally, the topical patch technology allows young women the ability to address the symptoms while in the restricted environment of public school. PatchMD offers unconditional support for women and offers effective help in their battle against the challenge of PMS.

The post The Reality of PMS: PatchMD Supports Women and Rejects The PMS Is A Myth Propaganda appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

Sandra from Laguna Niguel, California has been using a variety of patches, including the B12 Energy Vitamin Patch and the PMS Night Relief Estro Patch. With enthusiasm, she has been letting her friends know about how well the patches work for her:

“I have been using patches for several months now, and I can’t stop talking about them with my friends. One of the main reasons I like them is I don’t have to take a bunch of vitamins. I especially like the fact that they are timed-release and I get the benefits throughout the day, especially from the B12. I can tell a major difference in my energy level throughout the day when I use the B12 patches versus the days I don’t. I’m also a big fan of the PMS Night Relief Estro Patch because it definitely helps me sleep. I don’t have to take a sleep aid at night to get the benefit of a full night’s sleep when I am on my period. A lot of my friends have started using the patches and are also seeing benefits in their energy levels. And for the women, the PMS and Menopause patches really help.”

The post Positive Results from Both the B12 Energy Vitamin Patch And The PMS Night Relief Estro Patch appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.

What is a safe home remedy for severe night sweats and hot flashes? I am burning up.

There are enough alternatives that you should be able to tailor something that will work for you. Keep your bedroom cool. Exercise regularly: Research shows that active women have less trouble with hot flashes. Herb products such as Pycnogenol (pine bark extract), Remifemin (black cohosh extract) or St. John’s wort (hypericum extract) may help (Menopause, February).

I take atenolol for high blood pressure. I would like to take something to help me lose weight, and I have seen that I can buy Meridia online.

I read that it should not be taken if you have high blood pressure. Since I take atenolol, my blood pressure is under control. Does that mean it would be safe for me to take this weight-loss pill?

Meridia (sibutramine) is a prescription diet pill. It should be taken only under careful medical supervision, as there are a number of potentially serious side effects and drug interactions to watch out for.

Although there are websites that offer to sell Meridia without a prescription, this is a dangerous plan. Sites that sell controlled substances without requiring bona fide prescriptions might have few scruples about selling counterfeit drugs.

The Food and Drug Administration notified doctors in November that it is evaluating whether Meridia puts patients at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes. Your doctor will know if your blood pressure is controlled enough for this risk.

*** Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist, and Teresa Graedonis an expert in medical anthropology and nutrition. ***

Read Article on LA Times Web Site

The post Remedies for Hot Flashes appeared first on PatchMD - Vitamin Patches and Supplements.