Periods are the worst, it’s hard to predict exactly how you’ll feel during your menstruation. While some women barely notice any symptoms, others struggle to get out of bed, the cramps, the headaches, the pain, and what not.
While it is tempting to pick up a can of soda or deep dive into a chocolate cake to comfort your raging hormones but believe us, it won’t do any good to your physical health. In fact you are actually doing a damage to your internal as well as external health.
Here are the foods that you should eat during your periods to avoid those cramps and maintain a good physical and mental health. Yes, chocolates are included in the list!
1. Fruits and Vegetables
The amount of blood loss during periods can lead to weakness and other hormonal imbalances. So, it is important to add fruits and vegetables to your diet, they are rich in fiber and vitamins and will help to replenish the nutrient loss. Look for; Fruits like apples, banana, pineapple, kiwi, watermelons, Green veggies like pears avocados, White veggies like garlic, onion, mushrooms, Squash like pumpkin and butternut, also include sweet potatoes maca and yams
2. Citrus Fruits
During your period, it’s crucial to make sure you’re hydrated and eating fiber-rich foods.Citrus fruits are sweet, brightly coloured juicy fruits that are packed with are an excellent source of vitamin C and fibres, they also provide relief from mood swings and bloating.Look for; Orange, lemons, lime and grapefruit
3. Dark Leafy Greens
Enriched with the goodness of iron, folate and vitamins, leafy greens are good sources of nutrients, which can efficiently boost up your immunity level. These nutrients not only provide physical health benefits but also impact hormones, leading to lower stress levels and less mood swings.Look for; spinach, kale, broccoli, beet greens and collard greens
4. Wholegrain Millets
Millets are an excellent source of magnesium, as well as Vitamin B and Vitamin E. They are also rich in proteins and other minerals. This can help soothe the smooth muscles of uterus during a woman’s menstrual cycle relieving the pain. Plus,Millets will keep you full for longer.
5. Omega-3
Studies have found that omega-3, well known for its anti-inflammatory properties, can help to soothe this menstrual pain. It may help to bring hormonal fluctuations under control and stabilise your mood.Look for; salmon, chia seeds, walnuts, edamame, berries, kidney beans, pearl millet and winter squash
6. Seeds and Dry Fruits
Instead of reaching for a bag of chips or that candy bar, snack these little foods that are packed with a powerful punch of vitamins, minerals and fats. One can add seeds and dry fruits in the salad or healthy juices to stay rejuvenated during menstruation.Look for; almonds, pistachios, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, flax seeds , chia seeds, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds
7. Dark Chocolates
Satisfy your food cravings with dark chocolates. They are a good source of magnesium and fiber, elements which are responsible for balancing the mood swings. Choose a chocolate that contains 60% or greater cocoa content for best results.
8. Herbal Tea
Warm or hot liquids help with soothing pain swings. Herbal teas with the presence of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties becomes are a great natural remedy for menstrual cramps and is a go to option during menstruation cycle.Look for; Chamomile Tea, Ginger Tea, cinnamon tea, Lemon Balm Tea and Peppermint Tea
9. Water, water and water
Hydration is key when it comes to overcoming period cramps and mood swings.Water is one of the most underrated resource. This nature’s gift is the best healer and can be the best solution to thousands of issues. During periods body retains maximum water, hence it is advised to drink more water to release toxins and stay fit.
Bonus
Just like some foods ease period symptoms, other foods may make them worse. Here is a list of foods that needs to be avoided during your periods! you can thank us later!
Alcohol
Caffeinated Foods
Fried and Spicy food
Red Meat
Processed Foods
Foods with high salt content
High-fat foods