Meat, oil, sugars, salts, and coffee worsened menstrual cramps, while foods containing omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and may alleviate them. Those wanting a more holistic approach to their menstrual health may wish to try certain dietary modifications.
Recent research suggests that diets high in inflammatory foods such as meat, oil, sugar, and salt can contribute to period cramps.
Naturally, eating foods that decrease inflammation in the body will help to tame menstrual cramps. These foods include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Research has shown that both a vegetarian and plant-based eating pattern work to decrease inflammation in the body.
Chamomile tea is believed to relieve menstrual pain. Chamomile tea contains hippurate and glycine compounds that can help relieve muscle spasms and can relax the uterus. Like ginger, chamomile tea also has anti-inflammatory that can help reduce cramps in the lower abdomen.
During your menstrual period, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Hormonelike substances (prostaglandins) involved in pain and inflammation trigger the uterine muscle contractions. Higher levels of prostaglandins are associated with more-severe menstrual cramps.
Things you should avoid
“Consumption of excess salt causes water retention that leads to bloating during your period,” said Dr Patil. In fact, also avoid spicy food since it can upset your stomach and cause acid refluxes. “Avoid drinks like coffee, energy drinks etc as they can cause headaches and constipation.
Key Takeaways. New data suggests that a diet high in meat, oil, sugar, salt, and coffee could be linked to more period pain, specifically in adolescent females. Eating more omega-3 fatty acids while limiting omega-6 fatty acids might be beneficial for combatting menstrual pain.
Bananas: A Time-Tested Treatment
You probably know that bananas are a good source of potassium. But they'll also give you magnesium and calcium. That's three out of four nutrients you need to ease muscle cramps tucked under that yellow peel.
Because many muscle cramps are related to electrolyte imbalance, foods that are high in electrolytes, like potassium, can be helpful in stopping them before the start. Though bananas are the most popular high-potassium food, other foods, including avocados, potatoes and leafy greens, also pack a potassium punch.
Periods may be very painful because of an underlying medical condition, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or pelvic inflammatory disease. Doctors call this secondary dysmenorrhea. Other people may experience pain for no apparent reason. Doctors call this primary dysmenorrhea.
Pineapple, oranges, lemon, kiwi, and mangoes are other vitamin-C-rich fruits that reduce irregularities in periods and regularise the flow when eaten regularly.
Dehydration can escalate PMS and period discomfort, so drink up. Hydration prevents your blood from thickening while alleviating the muscle cramps associated with your monthly flow. Additionally, drinking water can help end your cycle faster. Eight glasses, or 64 ounces per day, really works wonders.
When you're experiencing cramps, food is the last thing on your mind. However, according to a study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, eating some form of cold food can help ease discomfort during menstruation. Specifically, the researchers found that consuming ice cream reduces menstrual cramps.
Several factors, such as birth control use and pregnancy, can affect period pain. Underlying health conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids may cause worsening period pain with age. Treatments like heating pads, hormonal birth control, and NSAIDs help alleviate pain.
Mild to moderate cramps for one or two days during your menstrual cycle is usually normal. But many women experience painful and intense menstrual cramps that can feel debilitating and interfere with everyday activities and exercise.
Periods can get heavier and more painful for some women after the age of 40. Sometimes it is a nuisance and sometimes it is a cause for concern.
Cramps last 2 or 3 days. They will often happen with each period. The cramps sometimes go away for good after the first pregnancy and delivery.
In reality, there's no proven way to stop periods immediately once they have started. However, certain strategies and medications can help lighten your menstrual flow and relieve period-related symptoms. This can help you feel more comfortable and free during your periods.
This may sound like a good plan but can actually worsen your period pains. It is advised to avoid eating or drinking cold foods and beverages during periods. “Prostaglandins” are the reason that consuming cold foods and beverages like ice creams, cold water or soft drinks, etc. during periods makes the cramps worse.
Secondary dysmenorrhea is the less common type of cramps and is caused by a medical condition like an infection, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts. These menstrual cramps often worsen with age and can last for the entire duration of your period.