Evaluating the effects of vitamin D and vitamin E supplement on premenstrual syndrome: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial

BACKGROUND: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can cause problems in daily work and relationships. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighty-six women were randomly assigned to two intervention groups and one control group. Patients were asked to fill out the PMS Daily Symptoms Record for 2 months, and then the participants were randomly assigned to one of the three study groups. Medical intervention was carried out for 2 months with the participants in each group receiving either a tablet containing 200 mg vitamin D, 100 mg vitamin E, or a placebo each day, respectively. After 2 months, the results of pre- and post-intervention were compared. P < 0.005 was considered significant. RESULTS: After the intervention, the mean score of the syndrome significantly decreased in all the three groups (12, 16, and 8 participants had decreased scores in vitamin D, vitamin E, and placebo, respectively). The differences between groups were not significant (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Supplemental therapy with vitamins D and E is an effective and affordable treatment for PMS.