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 B12reduced menses-related pain in menstruating women.

Researchers studied 78 Danish women (16 to 39 years of age) who received either fishoil (2.5 g per day), fish oil plus vitamin B12 (2.5 g per day), seal oil (5 g per day) ora placebo through three menstrual cycles. Women taking fish oil plus vitamin B12 reportedthe greatest reduction in symptoms such as pelvic pain, fatigue and headache as well asthe most long-lasting relief--up to three months after supplementation ended. Eight womenreported mild side effects, including an upset stomach. The researchers believe that thesesupplements may offer an alternative to ibuprofen and aspirin. For more information, visitwww.elsevier.nl.