In today’s day and age, menstrual pain or period cramps (dysmenorrhea in medical terms) are a very common issue. These are characterized by throbbing or cramping pains in the lower abdomen ranging from mild to severe and can significantly impact daily activities. While the causes of this medical condition are quite a few, they are most often tackled by using over the counter drugs and medications. But is there a natural way to go about it? Here are some foods that you can incorporate in your diet and have painless, more comfortable menstrual cycles.
1. Bananas
Rich in potassium and magnesium, bananas are great for reducing bloating and help in water retention. Eating bananas regularly can provide pain relief and maintain energy levels throughout the day.
Bananas
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2. Ginger
Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can significantly reduce menstrual pain. Adding some to your tea or even to certain dishes can reduce pain and improve digestion. In fact, studies have shown that ginger can be as effective as ibuprofen in reducing pain during menstruation.
Ginger
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3. Leafy Greens
Green vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli are filled with iron and magnesium. Iron replenishes the blood loss that occurs during periods while magnesium reduces cramps. Eat them cooked or make a salad; they can highly decrease menstrual discomfort!
Leafy Greens
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4. Whole Grains
Grains like oats, quinoa and brown rice have a high fibre content and are packed with B vitamins and magnesium. They help in regulating blood sugar levels and reducing muscle tension, thereby providing relief from cramps. These whole grains can also prevent constipation, which sometimes comes along with menstruation.
Quinoa
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5. Pineapple
This tropical fruit is filled with bromelain, an enzyme with anti-inflammatory properties, which helps in reducing period cramps. A healthy slice of pineapple can also help with gas.
According to Dr Rupali Datta, a prominent clinical nutritionist, “Pineapples are a juicy and tangy fruit option when dealing with menstrual pain. They greatly help with bloating as well.”
Pineapple
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6. Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines and other types of fatty fish contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids and can lessen inflammation in the body, thereby reducing menstrual pain. So, the next time you suffer from period cramps, eat some fish!
Salmon
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Also Read: 9 Incredible Benefits of Salmon Fish You May Not Have Known
7. Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in calcium and probiotics, which can help with menstrual pain. Calcium can reduce muscle cramping, while probiotics maintain gut health and bloating. A delicious and nutritious way to use yogurt is to whip up a fruit smoothie and enjoy pain-free cycles!
Yogurt
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8. Dark Chocolate
Good news for chocolate lovers: dark chocolate with a high cocoa content (70% or higher) can be beneficial during your period. Filled with antioxidants and magnesium, enjoying a small piece of dark chocolate can alleviate cramps to a great extent.
“A small piece of dark chocolate during your menstrual cycle can not only help with pain but also make you feel more cheerful and boost your mood.” says Dr Rupali.
Dark Chocolate
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9. Water
Staying hydrated is the key! Make sure to drink plenty of water to prevent bloating, dehydration and painful cramps. For a dash of flavour, try making fruit-infused water by adding watermelon or cucumber to your water!
Water
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Also Read: These Flavour-Infused Water Drinks Will Make You Forget About Aerated Drinks
Painful cycles and period pain is fairly common today. However, with the correct diet and a few dietary changes, you can get natural relief. These foods can help you seamlessly manage during that time of the month and help you enjoy a more comfortable menstrual cycle!
