DIET THERAPY FOR PREMENSTRUAL SYNDROME AND DYSMENORRHEA: A NARRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and dysmenorrhea are conditions related to the menstrual cycle that may compromise women's quality of life. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence on diet therapy for these conditions, considering dietary patterns, nutrients, and nutritional interventions. This is a narrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on searches conducted in the PubMed and SciELO databases and the Google Scholar platform, covering publications from 2020 to 2025. The studies examined address overall dietary quality and the potential role of nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids. Although some interventions have shown promising results, methodological heterogeneity and variability in findings limit the formulation of conclusive recommendations. It is concluded that diet therapy may constitute a complementary and individualized strategy without replacing conventional clinical treatment. Further studies with greater methodological rigor are needed to strengthen the available evidence.