You may be craving sweet, processed foods, but a balanced diet is all important when you’re menstruating and can make the experience easier.
We’re all guilty of reaching for a chocolate bar or something processed, sweet and laden with calories when we’re on our period. But did you know that high sugar, processed foods can actually have a negative effect on your body and exacerbate your period symptoms? This can lead to bloating, period cramps, headaches, and dehydration.
While it might be tempting to comfort yourself with the wrong foods, eating a balanced diet is essential to support your body during your menstrual cycle. In fact, the right food can help to alleviate pain and bloating and even lift your mood. So what foods should you be eating while on your period?
1. Water
Drinking plenty of water when you’re menstruating is essential. Not only does it help with bloating, staying hydrated helps blood flow throughout the body, and as result will improve the flow of period.
2. Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins and high in protein. It’s also known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which relax the uterus and help to stave off period cramps.
3. Spinach
Spinach and other green, leafy vegetables like broccoli and kale are period super foods because of their high iron content. Iron levels drop during times of blood loss and especially with heavy bleeding. This can leave you feeling dizzy, fatigued, and achy all over. Eating leafy green vegetables will increase your iron levels and improve digestion so you feel less bloated.
4. Bananas
Bananas contain potassium which helps to reduce cramps during periods. They’re also packed with Vitamin B6 which helps to synthesise neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin and lift your mood. In addition, they’re high in fibre and therefore good for digestion, which also helps with bloating.
5. Lemons
Lemons, oranges and limes are packed with Vitamin C which helps to keep your mood balanced while menstruating and high in fibre, which alleviates bloating. They also have a high water content and will ward off dehydration. Try a glass of water with a slice of lemon for a quick pick me-up.
6. Oatmeal
Your mother was right when she told you to eat porridge for breakfast! Oats are rich in Calcium, Vitamins A and B, and high in iron. One cup of oatmeal contains 14 milligrams of your recommended 18 milligrams of fibre per day. Eating oatmeal regularly can l help with PMS and period cramps.
7. Nutritional Supplement
Taking a nutritional supplement to support your menstrual cycle can make all the difference. Try Cleanmarine PeriodPlan, an all-in-one Omega 3, and multivitamin blend, designed specifically for women aged 15 to 40, to give additional nutritional support especially around the time of your period.
8. Dark Chocolate
We did say chocolate was not a good idea while on your period, but the good news is that dark chocolate is perfectly OK in moderation. In actual fact, it’s beneficial while you’re menstruating. This is due to its high ant-oxidant properties and magnesium count. It will help with bloating and period pain and probably put you in a good mood too!