Periods can be tough. Honestly, this is an understated term. Cramps, mood swings, irritability, weaknesses, fatigue, nausea, headaches and whatnot. You name it and women have gone through it during that time of the month. What’s more, is that as a woman you have to continue with your daily chores and activities and have to try and manage everything. Thus, it is very important that you prioritize yourself and monitor your diet. The food that you intake influences your cramps, mood swings and the rest of your symptoms.
We bring you 5 comfort foods to eat during your periods with a bonus item in the end!
1. Dark chocolate
We can all agree that nothing brings us more comfort than chocolate especially when it is good for your health. However, when it comes to chocolate be mindful of what kind of chocolate you are eating. Dark chocolate is best for your health. Dark chocolate helps regulate serotonin in your body which is the hormone that stabilizes your mood, feelings of well-being, and happiness. In addition it also a powerful source of antioxidants. According to a study in 2015 people with magnesium, deficiencies were more likely to have severe PMS symptoms. (Healthline)
2. Yoghurt
Yoghurt is enriched with calcium. Eating it during your periods helps in maintaining a good calcium balance which can significantly reduce PMS symptoms like bloating and moodiness and in turn increase comfort. In addition, it can promote weight management and also can also strengthen your immune system. Yoghurt has immune-enhancing properties which are partly due to its magnesium, selenium and zinc, which are trace minerals known for the role they play in immune system health (Healthline). In addition, yoghurt can also prevent yeast infections (as it is rich in probiotics) which some of the women are likely to get during or after their periods.
3. Fish
What could be better than having a scrumptious meal and then having to get to avoid period cramps as well? Well, fish is pretty unconventional for comfort food. However, Salmon is high in Omega-3 fatty acids which can help in relaxing your muscles and thus helps in relieving the pain. Furthermore, studies have shown that people who eat fish regularly are much less likely to become depressed. Numerous controlled trials also reveal that omega-3 fatty acids may fight depression and significantly increase the effectiveness of antidepressant medications (Healthline). Thus, eating fish can help in elevating your mood and reduce those mood swings.
4. Fruits
Fruits are not only delicious but are also good for your health in general especially during your periods. What’s best is that you can select from a wide variety of options. Water-rich foods like watermelon can help you keep hydrated while sweet fruits e.g. red grapes and pineapples can help curb those sugar cravings. Citrus fruits such as oranges can reduce PMS symptoms as it is rich in calcium which can reduce period cramps and pains by acting as a muscle relaxant. In addition, foods such a banana can help with the bloating (which is conman during periods) and can also boost mood as it has high dose of Vitamin B6.
5. Eggs
Eggs are rich in proteins and also has Vitamin B6, D and E which can reduce menstrual cramps. Moreover, eggs are also rich in Omega-3 which will help elevate your mood. Also, eggs will also help you feel full and prevent you from eating unhealthy and junk food that can make your periods symptoms worse. The fun thing about eggs is that you can eat in more than one way, whether it is in boiled form, fry or an omelette.
Sunday Breakfast Bake: Eggs & Cheese Taste Great In The Oven!
Bonus: Water
Well, water does not technically count as food but it is very essential to keep yourself hydrated during your periods. Water can help you from bloating and can also reduce your headaches. In addition, water is the best option to have instead of those high-sugar drinks which unhealthy.
We hope you’ll incorporate these comfort foods into your diet and that they’ll help the next time you’re breaking out and having painful cramps. Remember, a healthy diet is a key to a healthy life and change takes time.
