Case-control study, 2026
Does vitamin D help PMS symptoms?
Evidence from clinical trials suggests taking vitamin D supplements or eating foods rich in vitamin D can reduce PMS symptoms. Low vitamin D during the menstrual cycle may make PMS worse.
What they did
Literature review searching medical databases for clinical trials, case-control studies and other research on vitamin D and PMS.
What they found
PMS affects millions of women during the luteal phase of their cycle and has multiple causes including hormones, brain chemicals, inflammation and genetics. Clinical trials show vitamin D supplementation or a diet rich in vitamin D can reduce PMS symptoms, possibly by regulating hormones, affecting brain chemistry and reducing inflammation. Low calcium and vitamin D levels during the luteal phase may worsen PMS. Vitamin D supplements are affordable, safe and easy to get. However, current research has limitations from small study sizes and different study methods.
What it means for you
Vitamin D supplementation is a safe, affordable option for managing PMS, especially if levels are low. It may work through multiple pathways in the body. However, current research is limited by small studies and inconsistent methods, so larger well-designed studies are needed to confirm benefits and guide dosing. Main limits: small sample sizes and varied study designs.
About the study
- Original title
- Vitamin D deficiency and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) Literature Review
- Authors
- Dominika Cholewa, Dominik Jaklik, Natalia Guzik et al.
- Journal
- Quality in Sport
- Year
- 2026
- Study design
- Case-control study
- What was tested
- Vitamin D supplementation or dietary vitamin D
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.12775/qs.2026.64.73750
Topics
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