Women in their child-bearing years can all relate to PMS, and research continues to show that it is real. But it’s more than just cramps and fatigue. A new study shows that during the luteal phase (the two weeks post-ovulation leading to menstruation), women frequently also experience disruptions in their sleep patterns and report heightened feelings of anger. This study, said the researchers, reveals new information about the intricate relationship between women's menstrual cycles, emotions, and sleep patterns.
Study co-author Dr Jo Bower commented, “Our research provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between menstrual cycles, emotions, and sleep and the impact of hormonal fluctuations on women's well-being. By understanding how these factors interact, we can better address the unique needs of women in terms of sleep health and emotional well-being.”
The study analyzed data from 51 healthy women aged between 18 and 35, who had regular periods and were not taking hormonal contraception. Utilizing ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methodology, reproductive-aged women completed daily self-reports on their sleep and emotion measures and wore a sleep/wake tracking watch to track sleep across two menstrual months.
The researchers discovered compelling associations between menstrual phases, emotional states, and sleep quality. Key findings from the study include:
- Women experience disruptions in their sleep patterns in the days leading up to and during their period (peri-menstrual phase), spending more time awake at night, with a lower proportion of time spent in bed that is asleep (lower sleep efficiency).
- During the peri-menstrual phase, women report heightened feelings of anger compared to other phases of their menstrual cycle.
- Sleep disturbances during the peri-menstrual phase correlate with reduced positive emotions such as calmness, happiness, and enthusiasm.
This contributes to a growing body of evidence suggesting that menstrual cycles may play a significant role in women's vulnerability to insomnia and mental health issues. “The findings underscore the importance of considering hormonal fluctuations when addressing sleep disorders and emotional distress in women,” said dr. Bower. “The implications of this research reach further than just the controlled setting, providing potential pathways for interventions and treatments aimed at enhancing sleep quality and emotional resilience in women.”
This research provides opportunities to develop new products aimed at women who experience PMS-induced sleep and mood issues. Cactus Botanics has a wealth of botanicals and nutraceuticals that can help you get such products market.
TWEET: Women know that they get moody before their period – and new research validates that this occurs, along with disturbed sleep. This could be a new approach to products aimed at reducing PMS. #cactusbotanics, #pmsrelief, #periodawareness
Researchers Warn About Natural Toxins in Food
According to researchers, while many people are rightfully concerned about residues of chemicals, contaminants or microplastics in their food, they should also be aware that many foods also contain toxins of completely natural origin. These are often chemical compounds that plants use to ward off predators such as insects or microorganisms. These substances are found in beans and potatoes, for example, and can pose potential health risks.
However, according to a recent representative survey by the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), only just under half of the respondents (47 percent) were even aware of plant toxic substances.
The BfR Consumer Monitor Special on naturally occurring plant toxins also revealed that this risk worries 27 percent. In contrast, residues in food (e.g. from plant protection products) and contaminants, i.e. substances that are not intentionally added to food such as heavy metals, cause concern for 63 and 62 percent of respondents respectively. "The survey results make it clear that risks of natural origin tend to be underestimated, while risks of synthetic origin tend to be overestimated," says BfR President Professor Andreas Hensel."