Jamieson Laboratories, Toronto, Canada, has unveiled PMS Support Chocolate Bars—a collection of 15 premium soy crisp chocolate bars that are infused with natural botanicals to help relieve both the physical and emotional symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS). It contains a blend of white willow bark, sodium caseinate, artichoke leaf and chasteberry—all natural source ingredients that work together to relieve menstrual pain, bloating and irritability.
   
White willow bark is often referred to as “herbal aspirin” and it can help to ease menstrual cramps by reducing levels of hormone-like compounds that cause pain and inflammation in the body. Sodium caseinate is a patented milk protein. It has soothing properties that have been clinically proven to reduce moderate levels of stress and anxiety and helps to promote a feeling of calmness and relaxation in the body. Artichoke leaf acts as a diuretic to ease bloating while chasteberry helps to reduce irritability, depression and bloating.
   
“PMS is thought to be caused by a shift in hormone levels, increased levels of estrogen and reduced levels of progesterone, during the menstrual cycle. It is a common condition that causes most women some discomfort before their period, and the severity of symptoms can be affected by diet, level of activity and stress,” explained Penny Kendall-Reed, naturopathic doctor and clinic director, Urban Wellness Clinic.
   
PMS is a group of symptoms that generally occur one to two weeks before the start of a woman’s menstrual period. More than 150 symptoms have been linked to PMS, but the most common ones are physical (bloating, breast swelling and tenderness, abdominal pain), emotional (irritability, depression, anxiety) and psychological (food cravings, trouble concentrating). Approximately 40% of women suffer from symptoms of PMS.
   
“PMS Support is a safe, natural alternative to non-prescription pain relievers for mild to moderate symptoms of PMS, with only 70 calories per serving.” said Tracey Mazza, brand manager, Jamieson Laboratories Ltd.