Omega-3 and Vitamin B12 May Hold Key to Menstrual Pain
NEW YORK--In the May issue of Nutrition Research, a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12 reduced menses-related pain in menstruating women.
Researchers studied 78 Danish women (16 to 39 years of age) who received either fish oil (2.5 g per day), fish oil plus vitamin B12 (2.5 g per day), seal oil (5 g per day) or a placebo through three menstrual cycles. Women taking fish oil plus vitamin B12 reported the greatest reduction in symptoms such as pelvic pain, fatigue and headache as well as the most long-lasting relief--up to three months after supplementation ended. Eight women reported mild side effects, including an upset stomach. The researchers believe that these supplements may offer an alternative to ibuprofen and aspirin. For more information, visit www.elsevier.nl.