We all don’t quite like ‘that’ time of the month- thanks to abdominal cramps, PMS and discomfort. Between the bloating, the cramping, the cravings, and the mood swings, the time of the month is usually not the best week in any woman’s life. Period pain can be mild or severe, but every girl hates it however the pain is! The quickest option for getting rid of any kind of period pain might be to pop a pill like meftal spas, but am I the only one who hates taking a ton of medication during one week of every month? Sometimes, natural remedies are the best way to cure our pains and stay healthy at the same time. Here are the top 5 foods that help ease period pain:
- QUINOA
Quinoa has recently become the new health food superstar since it is rich in proteins containing all nine essential amino acids, and twice as much fibre as most other grains. The complex carbohydrate can help regulate mood swings, and stimulate energy production since its high in iron and vitamin B12 and sooth the period pain.
- TEA
You should be avoiding caffeine during your period, since it can make you anxious and retain water, so kick that coffee addiction and replace it with tea. Different types of tea can help with different symptoms. For example, green tea can help with cramps, while peppermint tea can soothe an upset stomach >>
- PINEAPPLE
Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that is thought to help relax muscles and thus help with menstrual cramps. Be aware, however, that most of the bromelain in pineapple is in the stem which is not as tasty as the flesh but which is nevertheless edible.
- SPINACH
During your period spinach can help with cramps and be a great source of the calcium you need. If you hate the taste, try blending it into a smoothie with some fruit and almond milk.
- SALMON
This tasty fish is stock full of omega-3 and vitamin D, both of which help with PMS symptoms, so make sure you eat this the week before your period. It also has anti-inflammatory effects, keeping your cramps in check and reducing bloating.
ADDITIONAL TIPS TO EASE/PREVENT PERIOD PAIN:
- Drinking water keeps your body from retaining water and helps to avoid painful bloating during menstruation. Warm or hot water is usually better for cramps, as hot liquids increase blood flow to the skin and may relax cramped muscles.
- Grate a small piece of ginger, add it to hot water, and drink for menstrual cramp relief.
- Poor nutrition can lead to deficiencies that can worsen menstruation symptoms, so stock up on foods packed with essential vitamins and nutrients, including brown rice, olive oil, leafy green vegetables, walnuts, almonds
- During menstruation, it’s a good idea to avoid foods that cause bloating and water retention. Examples of such foods are fatty foods (burgers, fries etc.), alcohol and carbonated drinks.