Home Health Menstrual Cramps And Diet: 5 Foods to Eat And Avoid During Period Pain
Small changes made during your period can help you overcome the difficult symptoms and have an impact on the rest of the month.
Menstrual Cramps And Diet: Many biological and mental factors affect women, and irregular cycles can have a strong impact on your well-being. The foods you consume during your period can support and fuel these changes in your body. Fatigue, bloating, mood fluctuations, cramps, and discomfort are common during the menstrual cycle, causing various pains and decreased productivity. However, maintaining a balanced diet can help manage period pain.
Obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Divya Vora suggests a list of foods to eat and avoid during irregular menstrual cycles.
FOODS TO EAT AND AVOID DURING YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE
1. Leafy Greens in, Processed Foods Out: Include leafy greens like spinach and kale to replenish your iron levels. Vegetables that provide fiber, such as broccoli, are also good choices.
2. Green Tea in, Caffeine & Alcohol Out: Avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol, and opt for green tea and juices instead. Green tea has antioxidants that relax muscles and alleviate pain.
3. Bananas in, Processed & Fatty Foods Out: Avoid processed and fatty foods. Instead, choose potassium-rich alternatives like bananas, which also help with reducing bloating. Processed foods interfere with hormones and can make you more uncomfortable, while fatty foods impact your hormones and skin.
4. Yogurt & Lassi in, Dairy Out: Limit dairy consumption, but include probiotic-rich yogurt (with less sugar) for gut health and calcium content. Diluted lassi and coconut water can also be consumed as alternatives. Dairy products, such as ice cream and cheese, can trigger cramping and hormonal changes.
5. Salmon, Avocados, Walnuts, & Dark Chocolate in, Fried, Salt, & Refined Grains Out: Avoid refined grains, high salt, and fried foods. Opt for lean proteins like salmon, which relax muscles and alleviate pain due to its Omega-3 fatty acids. Dark chocolate releases serotonin for mood improvement, and its antioxidants help relax muscles.
Being aware of the triggers that affect your hormones and the specific symptoms you experience can help achieve long-term relief. Stay updated by subscribing to our newsletter.