Foods That Are Good For You When You Are On Your Period And Why

While it may be tempting to reach for that can of soda or that delicious plate of nachos to comfort your raging hormones during your period, it may be more damaging.  Research shows the benefits of all our leafy and more natural foods to help ease any discomfort and bloating during that tiresome and sometimes pained cycle. Here is a list of the many natural, more earth-friendly foods to help during that not-so-friendly time of the month.

Kale

During your menstrual cycle, women lose a lot of iron. Low iron levels can cause fatigue and body aches. Eating green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach, collard greens and broccoli can help replenish iron deficiency. Just think of Popeye and how strong he is when he eats his mighty greens. Naturally, we can benefit from the same ingredients when strength is especially imperative!  Plus, the iron that we are losing in our blood loss is replaced, allowing our bodies to maintain optimal performance!

Oranges

Oranges are loaded with calcium. Calcium is beneficial to help reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. High levels of calcium can also ease cramps, aches and pains; acting as a muscle relaxant  and who doesn’t want a little bit more R&R during Aunt Flow’s visit? Vitamin D, which is also found in oranges, helps regulate serotonin, the neurotransmitter that helps regulate our moods. Find this winning combo in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and limes. You can even consider slicing these up and placing them in your water!

Bananas

Bananas are a go-to mood-boosting food due to their naturally high dose of vitamin B6. They are also rich in potassium and magnesium which can reduce water retention and bloating. Magnesium is good to help with headaches as well. This fruit seems like an overall win with menstrual cycle.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a good fruit for those sweet cravings. When you feel like a candy bar, grab a sweet fruit instead. It is good for that sweet craving and it provides all the nutrients to combat weakness and fatigue. Plus the natural sugars in fruits such as watermelon, plums, figs and berries help alleviate bloating. Why not consider something that tastes good and doesn’t cause extra weight gain or feelings of excessive air bulge?

Salmon

We all know salmon is good for us. The Omega-3 fatty oils work together to relax muscles, relieving menstrual pain and discomfort.  Just ensure you cook it properly and that you get it from trust-worthy sources. 

Broccoli

Broccoli contains all nutrients that play a role in easing PMS. It is fully-loaded with magnesium, potassium, vitamins A, C, B6, and E. It is good for boosting your mood and fighting fatigue, as well as, combatting depression. This is a win-win-win in all aspects of relieving physical and emotional distress during your menstrual cycle.

Dark chocolate

We had to add some kind of candy in here. No, not that Snickers bar where because you saw the commercial where you are “hangry” you grab that instead. This is pure dark chocolate which is also good for your heart and helps headaches.

So when you are tempted to go for that fried food or bubbly soda, remember the comfort in good choices versus temporary joy of fried and sugary foods. Your body will be happy with you in the long run and many of the above-listed foods can be prepped in different ways to give you plenty of variety and flavor for those typical 3-7 days of discomfort!