Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study was to explore the perimenstrual discomforts and dietary intake levels among normal women.
METHOD
A prospective and descriptive study examined 38 women aged 23-46years of age. The data collection period lasted from April 1 to June 30, 2003. The participants were asked to keep a diary recording perimenstrual symptoms and food intake for 50 days.
RESULTS
There was a significant difference in physical symptoms of perimenstrual discomforts (F=6.95, p=.001), but there was no significant difference in dietary intake level according to three different phases of a menstrual cycle. The significant dietary intake variables correlated to PMS included energy, protein, Vitamin E, Vitamin B2, niacin, Vitamin B6, folic acid, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. They were negatively related to perimenstrual discomforts.
CONCLUSION
Balanced diet intake will be necessary for not only the perimenstrual discomforts but also the general health promotion of the entire population. The dietary and nutritional assessment should be done prior to nursing interventions, and nutritional counseling and education should be given based on individual differences. In a further study, the effects of dietary composition on specific symptoms will be replicated with a large sample, and development of a diet intervention program for perimenstrual discomforts is recommended.