Painful Period Symptoms? How Food Can Help Rid Those Sharp Pains
- Lucas Castillo
- Nov 24, 2018
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 27, 2019
by Lucas Castillo
November 24th, 2018
Are you experiencing severe menstrual cycle symptoms and can't seem gain the balance you wish to have?
The other day my mother sends me a text asking me to research something for her.
She began to express that has been experiencing some seriously painful menstrual cramping. Well I told her that I wasn't sure how I could help with that.
I only ever researched the male anatomy but I thought I would give this a go just for mom.
I was able to find a list of foods that can aid in both physical pain and help boost your mood. I found several recourses and even did my own due diligence to try and understand this part of the female anatomy myself.
I believe I will be better prepared for ‘that time of the week’ when I date the next girl.
Please note that every food item with a (*) next to it, will indicate that it includes tryptophan, which is a chemical that boosts serotonin in the brain. Seratonin boosts your mood and fights against things like depression, anxiety and bi-polar disorder; known mentrual cycle symptoms.
Fruits have very high antioxidant profiles and contain specific vitamins that help battle against the negative effects your hormones are known to trigger. These fruits should do the trick:
1. (*) Pineapples- One of the best sources of Vitamin C and is one hell of an anti-inflammatory.
2. (*) Bananas– They are for one a great source to lower blood pressure. The potassium content will also help relax/ease your muscle contractions.
3. (*) Blueberries & Strawberries– Being apart of the flavonoidfamily, and a powerful source of vitamin C, blueberries can enhance your mood and fight against chemical imbalances that cause depression symtoms.
Protein is something to be cautious of when on your menstrual cycle. Red meats especially are big contributors to sharp pains and heavier ‘flows’. Red meat is high in cholesterol, which can increase your blood pressure. Majority of women are known to be iron-deficient and some can’t forfeit their red meat. These alternatives may reduce inflammation and excess bleeding:
1. (*) Eggs– High vitamin profile and provides a healthy cholesterol source containing omega-3 fats that are also great for digestion health.
2. (*) Salmon– A great source of omega-3, vitamin D and serves as a great anti-inflammatory and high in protein.
3. (*) Beans– Black beans, kidney beans, black eyed peas, lentils, soybeans, and many other beans are great sources of fiber, protein and iron. They will protect the walls and lines of your digestive system, and can reduce inflammation.
4. (*) Tofu– An excellent source of iron, omega-3, potassium, calcium and protein – tofu should greatly reduce inflammation and cramping.
Here is a list of some other amazing items I have found to quite beneficial to fight against cramping and can help boost your mood:
1. (*) Dark Cholocate – Known to reduce blood flow, great for heart health
2. (*) Low Fat Yogurt – Reduces pain and can improve gut health
3. (*) Seeds – Pumpkin, Fennel, Flax, and Sesame seeds are great for boosting your mood (add to salads) contains antioxidants that will aid estrogen balance
4. (*) Kale – High in calcium, can reduce pain and inflammation
5. (*) Broccoli – Great source of fiber and essential vitamins for healthy digestion
6. (*) Peanut Butter – High source of vitamin E and can reduce inflammation
I have witnessed that some days can be quite unbearable (not experienced of course) and you are provoked to grab the ibuprofen to reduce your pain. Ibuprofen can actually increase your bleeding and throw off even more nerves and provoke more mood changes. I managed to find this list of (*) ingredients that greatly reduce pain and inflammation just like ibuprofen:
1. Chamomile – Chamomile Tea is recommended, is a high source of glycine
2. Cinnamon – Eases bleeding, pain and nausea, can boost metabolism
3. Ginger – Reduces pain and inflammation, great or cardiovascular system
4. Pycenogenol– Reduces pain and inflammation
5. Dill – Relaxes muscles and eases cramps
To conclude my findings I found some things to avoid during your menstrual cycle. Staying away from these items can probably save you from a great deal of further stress, mood swings and pain:
1. Foods containing high and poor fats like trans fat
2. Alcohol (This should be a given)
3. Carbonated drinks
4. Caffeine (caffeine is a diuretic and can ‘dry you out’ causing more bleeding and cramps)
5. Foods with high salt content
Lastly, just make sure you are drinking plenty of water. Exercise is encouraged during your cycle as well. But staying hydrated is most important. I have no doubt that if you include these food items in your diet during your menstrual cycle, you will experience less painful symptoms.
I hope you find this blog helpful and that it serves you best on your next menstrual cycle. I know my Mother is appreciating it. Thank you for reading.
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/tryptophan
https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/serotonin
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