Every month, most women in their childbearing years get a period. The uterus sheds its lining when there's no pregnancy. Besides vaginal bleeding, menstruation comes with other uncomfortable side effects.
Medications and heating pads help with cramps and other symptoms, but did you know helping yourself is as easy as changing what you eat? Certain foods before and during your period cut back on bloating and fatigue.
At New England Women's Healthcare, our OB/GYN specialists are experts in women's health and PMS. We offer various treatments for menstrual pain and diet tips to reduce uncomfortable symptoms.
A healthy diet is critical for many reasons, but it's essential on and around your period. Eating the proper foods in the days leading up to your period alleviates painful cramps and other expected symptoms.
PMS is a problem for many women, causing emotional distress and physical symptoms. These symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe but often subside once your period begins.
Common symptoms of PMS include breast tenderness, mood swings, bloating, and irritability. Medications help, but you may not need them by eating the right foods before menstruation.
Diet is a crucial aspect of dealing with PMS for many reasons. You require extra vitamins and nutrients to fight off gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like bloating and to cut back on fatigue from vaginal bleeding.
In the days leading up to their period, some women suffer from severe PMS symptoms, which affect different aspects of life. If you're one of these women, you may be able to curb your symptoms through simple diet changes.
Five essential foods for period relief include:
Dark chocolate has plenty of iron and magnesium, which help reduce period symptoms. Magnesium is especially beneficial in relieving bloating, cramps, and headaches related to hormone changes.
If you experience heavy period bleeding, stock up on leafy greens to increase iron and calcium. Iron is critical when you lose significant amounts of blood, and low levels cause fatigue and body aches during your period.
Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help with many symptoms associated with PMS. You can get ginger through tea or supplements or add it directly to cooked food.
GI symptoms often worsen during your period, which is where yogurt helps. Yogurt contains probiotics that help balance the gut's bacteria, decreasing bloating and other uncomfortable symptoms before and during your period.
Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats alleviate bloating and regulate the gut, especially during your period. They contain plenty of fiber and magnesium, helping with menstrual cramps and other symptoms.
You should avoid some foods before and during your menstrual cycle. These foods either provide zero nutritional value or promote inflammation and discomfort in the days leading up to your period.
Knowing what foods to avoid enables you to take control of your period. Steer clear of these foods during and before menstruation:
It's also crucial to avoid foods you don't normally tolerate well. For instance, if dairy products upset your stomach, don't indulge in ice cream during your period — it may spell disaster for your stomach.
Call your nearest New England Women's Healthcare office to set up a consultation for PMS or request an appointment on the website. We're a premier, full-service practice with convenient locations in Woburn and Wilmington, Massachusetts.
