Dysmenorrhea, what supplement do you recommend?
Dear Rosa,
I often recommend the product Omegor TwinEFA in cases of dysmenorrhea because the combination of omega-3 EPA and DHA (in triglyceride form from fish oil) and omega-6 GLA from borage oil is particularly useful to relieve menstrual cramps thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect. Menstrual cramps are indeed associated with the release of arachidonic acid following the reduction of progesterone induced by menstruation: the release of arachidonic acid triggers a flow of prostaglandins (PGE2 and PGF2) and leukotrienes in the uterus that cause vasoconstriction and myometrial contractions, which are the basis of the cramps.
Why is this combination useful? The omega-3 EPA and DHA fatty acids from fish oil compete with arachidonic acid in producing less inflammatory prostaglandins and can therefore reduce the painful component typical of dysmenorrhea. The presence of omega-6 GLA from borage oil can increase the anti-inflammatory potential of the formulation.
As you rightly pointed out, borage oil contains phytoestrogens but does not promote the appearance of ovarian cysts—in fact, it is highly recommended even in the presence of ovarian cysts to promote their resorption. The dosage for Omegor TwinEFA is 2 capsules per day to be taken near a meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) continuously for a period of at least 2 months. However, if you want to avoid taking borage oil, I recommend, instead of Omegor TwinEFA, the product Omegor Krill at a dosage of 2-3 capsules per day to be taken in the first part of the day (breakfast or lunch).
The krill oil contained in the product is also a source of omega-3 EPA and DHA, but derived from the crustacean krill and in phospholipid form, which is very well absorbed by the cells of our body. In several studies, krill oil was found to be as effective as fish oil in controlling abdominal pain by reducing the use of anti-inflammatory/pain medications, while it was more effective than fish oil in controlling emotional symptoms such as irritability, typical of the premenstrual phase. I hope you find benefit from the proposed supplements. Please feel free to contact me again for any further needs.
Best regards,
Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist
