Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma linolenic acid (GLA)
For the health condition: PMS Type H

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in oils such as evening primrose oil and borage oil. Its use in supporting or treating PMS Type H—characterized by symptoms of "hyperhydration" such as bloating, breast tenderness, and weight gain—has some basis in scientific investigation, though the evidence is mixed and not robust.

The rationale for GLA supplementation in PMS Type H is primarily related to its role in prostaglandin metabolism. Women with PMS may have altered essential fatty acid metabolism, leading to lower levels of prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), which has anti-inflammatory and anti-edema (anti-swelling) properties. GLA is a direct precursor to dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), which is then converted into PGE1. By increasing PGE1 levels, GLA supplementation is hypothesized to reduce symptoms such as breast tenderness and fluid retention.

Several clinical trials have investigated the effects of evening primrose oil (a rich source of GLA) on PMS symptoms. Some studies report modest improvements in mastalgia (breast pain) and bloating, but systematic reviews and meta-analyses generally find the evidence to be inconclusive or only weakly positive. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and other medical organizations do not strongly endorse GLA for PMS due to insufficient high-quality evidence.

In summary, while there is a plausible biological mechanism and some limited clinical support for GLA in treating PMS Type H symptoms, the overall scientific validation remains weak, and further research is needed to establish efficacy and optimal dosing.

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