(HealthDay News) -- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) affects many women just before their menstrual cycles. Common symptoms include cramps, bloating, fatigue and moodiness.

Here are suggestions on how to help curb PMS, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:

• Get regular exercise.
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and avoid foods high in salt, sugar, caffeine and alcohol.
• Try to get at least eight hours of sleep each night.
• Avoid smoking.
• Keep stress at bay. Diversions might include talking to friends or writing in a journal.