Have you ever stopped to think that what you eat before and during your period could help your body deal with menstrual cramps/pain and reduce other symptoms?
There are certain foods which when eaten regularly, can provide us with a lot of benefits and help relieve menstrual stress and pain that some women go through every month.
Here are some food that if eaten regularly, and in addition to other healthy choices, can make a big difference:
Water: Drinking enough water can solve so many problems on its own. Hydrating can prevent acne, keep away cramps, and can also help with bloating. If you are getting enough water every day, your body won’t retain liquids, keeping you comfortable all day.
Calcium: Getting some calcium in your diet can be a huge help in terms of cramping. However, you don’t want to get your calcium from dairy products, because they can actually trigger cramps. Other sources of calcium include almonds, sesame seeds, and leafy green vegetables. There are also supplements available, but make sure to consult your doctor before taking anything he or she has not recommended.
Bananas: Have you ever heard that you should eat a banana after exercising to stop muscle cramps from setting in the next day? The same thing is true for menstrual cramps. Eat a banana before or during your cycle to avoid cramps and reduce bloating.
Dark Chocolate: It’s not unusual to get cravings for chocolate while you’re on your period, but you want to make sure to choose a more healthy option. Dark chocolate will satisfy your craving, help relax your muscles, and keep you happier without consuming the fat and dairy in other types of chocolate.
Celery: This crispy, light vegetable is full of water and has zero calories. It will help with bloating and is just good for you overall. If you don’t like the taste, spread it with peanut butter or consume it into the next food on this list!
Pineapple: This summery fruit helps your muscles relax, which in turn reduces your cramps. It also helps with bloating and can even boost your mood, making you feel happier! You can eat it plain, drink it as juice or a smoothie, or grill it for a delicious treat.
Tea: You should be avoiding caffeine during your period, since it can make you anxious and retain water, so kick that coffee addiction and replace it with tea. Different types of tea can help with different symptoms. For example, green tea can help with cramps, while peppermint tea can soothe an upset stomach.
Vegetables: Leafy green vegetables are a super food and one of the things you should always have in your diet. During your period, they can help with cramps and be a great source of the calcium you need. If you hate the taste, try blending it into a smoothie with some fruit and almond milk.
Salmon: This delicious, flavourful fish is stocked full of omega-3 and vitamin D, both of which help with PMS symptoms, so make sure you eat this the week before your period. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, keeping your cramps in check and reducing bloating.
Nuts And Seeds: Rich in magnesium, nuts and seeds help alleviate cravings for sweets and other junk foods. This helps prevent bloating and other related discomfort. You can opt for nuts like walnut, peanut and the likes.
Low-Fat Yogurt: Foods that are rich in calcium will also help reduce the pain of cramps.
You’ve now got your breakfast idea for the length of your period. When that time of the month comes along next, try some of these foods and see if they help.
By Mercy Kukah
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