This post may contain affiliate links.
We talk about hormones a lot on this show. It’s an essential part of women’s health. Yet, there’s a lot of misinformation and a lack of information about it. Today, I’m speaking with an expert on a hormonal condition we’ve actually never covered here before: premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
LISTEN TO EPISODE 107 OF THE FED AND FEARLESS PODCAST
Or listen and subscribe for free on your favorite app: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Google Play | Android | TuneIn
About Mandy Rother
Mandy is a Functional Dietitian-Nutritionist. She was diagnosed with PMDD 15 years ago and her own story includes everything from dark rock bottoms to symptom-free years. On top of that, IBS, PCOS, and depression were worsening her cyclical symptoms.
For the longest time, Mandy felt broken and at war with her body. Fed up with band-aid solutions, she decided to forge her own path. Over time she was able to put her metabolic puzzle together for a comprehensive approach to relief. This path of trial and error compelled her to study integrative and functional nutrition so she could help others do the same.
PMDD Looks Different for Everyone
Commonly, women with PMDD are told that it’s impossible to fix. Mandy explains how this is false information. There’s actually a lot that can be done.
Treatments are going to differ from person to person because the contributing factors vary. When symptoms appear, Mandy knows that means something in your life needs to be addressed. Mandy talks about how tracking symptoms and gathering information is the key to guiding your approach to treatment.
Getting Information and Finding Solutions
There’s no single test for PMDD, but there are tools for gathering information. Mandy recommends an in-depth test of thyroid hormones, checking vitamin D levels, examining blood-sugar markers, and testing nutrients and gut health. Once you see the relevant pieces of the puzzle, you’ll be better prepared to take action.
The solutions to PMDD are not straightforward, but they are out there. Mandy explains that no single thing will do the trick. It’s likely going to be a mix between lifestyle changes, medication, and diet. With the right guidance and action, recovery is possible.
Have you experienced PMDD? Tell me how you approached it in the comments below!
Got a question you’d love to hear me answer on the show? Leave me a voice message here!
IN THIS EPISODE
- How Mandy found her calling in helping women with PMDD [5:30]
- What PMDD is and how it differs from PMS [7:05]
- How PMDD impacts Mandy’s life in its many arenas [13:19]
- Common hurdles women seeking help for PMDD face [19:25]
- The role of functional testing in overcoming PMDD [26:45]
- The first steps to take if you suspect you have PMDD [35:10]
QUOTES
“Simply put, it’s like PMS on steroids. Yet, it’s very different than PMS, both in the severity and what causes it.” [7:36]
“If my symptoms bubble up again, it’s like my barometer for my lifestyle. Do I need to make shifts to support my physical, spiritual, or mental health and recalibrate my habits to get back on track?” [13:03]
“Each person’s puzzle will be put together a little bit differently, but all those pieces always connect.” [26:40]
LINKS
Follow Mandy on Instagram
Mandy’s Guide to Peaceful Periods
The International Association for Premenstrual Disorders
Review Fed and Fearless on Apple Podcasts! Send a screenshot of your review to hello@lauraschoenfeldrd.com or send me a DM on Instagram, and I’ll send you my Overcoming Undereating eBook. If you post your favorite episode in your Insta stories and tag me @LauraSchoenfeldRD, I’ll also send you my 14-Day Calorie Challenge Recipe Guide!
Join the Nutrition Business Accelerator Waitlist
Learn more about business coaching with me
Got a question you’d love to hear me answer on the show? Leave me a voice message here!
Follow me on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest
Podcast production & marketing support by the team at Counterweight Creative
Related Episodes
Episode 95: Optimize Your Entrepreneurial Flow with Berrion Berry
+ show Comments
- Hide Comments
add a comment