As women, we all know how tough and painful periods can get. While it is always tempting to reach for a ton of snacks and junk food, they actually do more harm than good. It’s not exactly breaking news that giving your body some TLC during this time of the month can make your symptoms feel more manageable. While popping a Panadol might help, the right food more often than not really is the best medicine! So those nachos or sugary treats might give you momentary pleasure but may increase your cramps over time. More period pain, nausea and bloating? No thanks! But don’t worry we’re here to break down what’s the best and worst kinds of food to eat during your periods. While it might be tough to break that junk food habit or resist a craving, we promise you these foods work not only to counter the menstrual discomfort but are also good for your overall health.
Keep scrolling to find out the best food and drinks for your period cramps:
Foods/Drinks To Eat
1. Water
Nothing beats a refreshing glass of plain ol’ water to stay hydrated. Drinking a lot of water during your periods and staying hydrated helps to alleviate PMS symptoms. You should be drinking at least 1.5 litres of water daily to reduce bloating and improve digestion.
2. Bananas
From apples and bananas to berries and melons, fruits are a great way to satiate your sweet tooth and take care of many symptoms. But banana really is your hero during this time. Rich in potassium, magnesium and a high dose of vitamin B6 they can reduce water retention, bloat, regulate digestion and instantly boost your mood.
3. Salmon
Fish and other seafood, rich in omega-3 fatty acids like Salmon are really good for you. Plus it’s a great option during periods as you want to avoid excess meat intake. Other omega 3 rich foods like walnuts, avocados, pumpkin, and flaxseeds are also great for relaxing your muscles and relieving pain.
4. Broccoli
Leafy green vegetables are always good for your body rain or shine. Broccoli contains all of the nutrients that play a role in easing PMS symptoms—magnesium, potassium, calcium, and vitamins A, C, B6, and E. So this is no time to leave it behind! With a ton of delicious recipes available online, add broccoli and a few more green vegetables to your plate. This will help fight fatigue, and combat depression.
5. Dark Chocolate
While it’s better to avoid high sugar foods we can’t say no to chocolate! Opt for dark chocolate options instead to satisfy your cravings. A great source of both, iron and magnesium, dark chocolate also helps regulate serotonin—the happy hormone.
6.Turmeric
The main component of turmeric is curcumin which is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Add this to your food or drinks to ease tension and bloating.
7. Chamomile tea
Swap out your coffee for a soothing tea. Chamomile, peppermint or ginger tea are a few great options. Pick whatever you like! A hot and good cup of one of the teas takes away all the stress by relaxing your muscles woes and reducing hormone-related anxiety.
Food/Drinks To Avoid
1. Carbonated drinks
Soda drinks with high sugar content is a one-way ticket to bloating and water retention. Avoid sparkling water too and stick to plain old water to stay hydrated.
2. Caffeine
You might be sluggish or drained of energy during your periods which makes you reach for that cup of coffee. But in fact, caffeine makes our blood vessels constrict which exacerbate menstrual because it has a tightening effect on the uterus.
3. Fried & Processed Foods
The deeply fried foods are full of trans fat and highly inflammatory, while processed carbohydrate food varieties are high in sodium. Which end up being major culprits of bloating too. Avoid these if you want to reduce your pain.
4. Legumes and refined grains
Beans of all kinds can easily cause bloating so keep them off your plate to reduce your discomfort. Refined grains on the other hand interfere with blood sugar and regular appetite control. Alternatively, opt for whole-grain items instead.
Join the Girl Tribe by MissMalini App to be a part of the conversation.