Food Choices &Your Period.

How food choices can help your period.

Who knew that adding the right food and removing others could make a world of difference? Your diet can have a direct impact on your hormonal changes, which can aggravate some of the aforementioned symptoms. Make the following dietary changes to reduce period symptoms:

• Leafy green vegetables: When blood is lost every month during menstruation, iron is also lost with the red blood cells. If the blood flow is too heavy and iron is not replenished in your cycle, then iron deficiency can lead to anaemia. To avoid this, include leafy green vegetables in your meals, such as kale and spinach, which is a powerhouse of magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, further helping you fight menstrual cramps.

• Dark chocolate: You never need a reason to chomp away on a bar of chocolate. Dark chocolate is a great source of iron and magnesium, which helps in reducing the severity of premenstrual syndromes (PMS). 

• Nuts: Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are loaded with protein. Nuts keep you feeling fuller for a long period of time and sustain your energy levels. They also contain magnesium and other vitamins. You can either have plain nuts or include them in your salads or smoothies.

• Turmeric: Turmeric is a great anti-inflammatory spice that can reduce bloating. Curcumin is its active ingredient, which, apart from its many medicinal benefits, can also soothe premenstrual syndromes. 

• Fruits: Consume fresh watery fruits to stay hydrated. Eating sweet fruits can help you refrain from eating refined sugar. Therefore, your blood sugar level stays normal and does not spike.

Hydrate plenty. Drink a lot of water, especially during your periods, to prevent dehydration headaches, a common symptom of menstruation, and to reduce the chance of your body retaining water.