6 Things to Do to Relieve PMS Symptoms

You know the feeling. The cramping, the bloating and the all-around misery that accompanies your time of the month. Whether your premenstrual symptoms are minor or so extreme you can't leave your bed, you're not alone; nearly 85 percent of women regularly experience at least one PMS symptom every month. Check out these things to do to get rid of PMS symptoms once and for all.

Improve your diet. If fruits, veggies and whole grains aren't major components of your diet, then you may want to take a step back and reevaluate, because certain foods can worsen PMS symptoms. For example, a salt-heavy diet can cause bloating. Caffeine aggravates irritability, which is the last thing you need when your hormones are all over the place. Too much sugar can destabilize your blood sugar and mood, and alcohol can worsen depression. Click here to see what kinds of foods can beat PMS!

Chill out. Like many health issues, stress can worsen your PMS symptoms. Consciously try to keep your stress levels at a minimum in order to keep PMS symptoms at a minimum. Go for a massage, practice deep breathing exercises, meditate, do some yoga, catch up on your zzz's — whatever helps you unwind and de-stress.

Take some vitamins. There's not a lot of hard evidence, but many women will tell you that certain vitamins can cut down on PMS symptoms big time. Try taking calcium, B vitamins, or vitamin E supplements during your time of the month.

Hit the gym. It might feel like you don't have the energy to even pick up the TV remote, but exercising is a great way to become energized and kick your PMS symptoms to the curb. Choose an exercise that you enjoy and that also gets your heart rate up!

Pop some pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are great options for getting rid of painful cramps. Pain relief medication like ibuprofen, Advil or Midol will offer some temporary relief from cramps.

>> Read more: Natural Ways to Cure a Headache

Consider birth control. Many women choose to go on a low-dose oral contraceptive to regulate their period and lessen severe PMS symptoms. It helps to "even out" your hormones throughout the month and regulate everything down there.

Do you have any home remedies that fix PMS symptoms? Share with us in the comments below!