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 the 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 lassie. 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 acidotic 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.
9.Water - Drinking enough water keeps the body hydrated and reduces fatigue.
Highlighting the foods to avoid during periods, Dr Preeti Raheja cautioned against fried foods, foods with high salt content, caffeine, milk and dairy products.
According to Pratiksha Kadam, Chief Dietitian at Navi Mumbai's Reliance Hospital, plant-based foods should be included in the diet which will increase the fibre. A high fibre diet in combination with a low-fat diet can reduce the intensity of the pain during menstrual periods, she said.
You must be logged in to post a comment.