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Every woman has a different situation during periods, some have more pain while some have less. But everyone would agree that periods are one of the toughest phases of every month. Be it on-field duty or sitting back in your cabin, menstruation days are hard for women from all walks of life. Women should be concerned about their health, especially during periods, as a bad diet can increase the pain and cramps.
To maintain health during the menstrual period, one should take a nutritious diet which includes a lot of green leafy vegetables, whole grains, fruits, bananas, yogurt, salmon fish, nuts and seeds, etc. These are believed to help reduce menstrual pain, cramps and discomfort. But due to mood swings women crave for certain foods which also exacerbates the symptoms. But in such a situation, it is also very important to know the food which can increase the problem during menstruation.
Here are the things you should avoid:
1. Caffeine
It is very important to limit the quantity of caffeine intake during periods, as it can shorten the length of the cycle. It can also cause increased urination or headache sometimes. Dehydration also occurs if caffeine is consumed during periods. This can worsen menstrual symptoms like pain, cramps, discomfort, etc. Instead of caffeine products, have green tea, carrot and tomato juice or any kind of vegetable soup. It will help to relieve cramps during menstruation.
2. Alcohol
Consumption of alcohol during menstrual cycle can increase discomfort so it should be avoided. It can cause swelling of the lower abdomen and irregularities in periods and increase estrogen levels in the body, which can worsen menstrual symptoms. Instead of alcohol consumption, you can drink coconut water or lassi. This will be helpful to stay hydrated during menstruation.
3. Processed Foods
Usually, we have to avoid processed food in our daily life but during menstruation, it is very important to avoid these processed things like frozen food, fast food, canned soup, etc. They can cause constipation and increase discomfort and pain during periods.
4. High-Fat Food
High-fat food can affect hormonal activities in the body and cause painful symptoms during menstruation. For example, saturated fat, trans fat can increase cramps, pain and inflammation. Prefer lentils, wheat bread, oatmeal, salmon fish and lean meats.
5. Avoid Dairy Products
Consuming dairy products such as milk, cheese and cream during periods can cause discomfort. They contain a tremendous amount of arachidonic acid and increase the risk of cramps during menstruation. Therefore, instead of consuming these things, you may prefer toned milk and buttermilk.
6. Fried Food
During menstruation, do not eat any type of fried foods. It contains high amounts of trans-fat and can increase estrogen levels and cause discomfort and mood changes. So instead of fried food, eat crunchy vegetables like cucumber, carrot etc. and roasted snacks.
7. Salt Consumption
Excess of salt is also problematic during periods because it can make one feel more bloated, lethargic and uncomfortable. Also, too many sour things are harmful during periods, especially pickles. It also contains a lot of sodium which causes an increase in pain.
8. Red Meat
Eating red meat can also increase pain during menstruation. Red meat contains acids that make the prostate glands very active and increases the pain.
Satisfy your unhealthy cravings with tons of fruits and vegetables instead. Opt for foods with ample nutrients like vitamins, minerals, water, protein, iron, and fiber. There is an abundance of delicious foods to eat while on your period to get you through the monthly pain and discomfort. Therefore, change your diet and say bye-bye to your painful cramps.
