Your menstrual period is one of the most excruciating aspects of being a woman. For me, it’s that time of the month which I don’t exactly look forward to. During this time, many of us women tend to reach for sugary foods. But if you want to ease those symptoms that include cramps and fatigue, you have to do a little better than those types of foods. Here are five foods you must incorporate into your diet when you’re on your period.
Leafy Green Veggies
When you start your period, you might likely start to see your iron levels become deficient. This could especially happen if you experience heavy menstrual cycles. Filling your body with plenty of leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach restores those iron levels. Leafy veggies are already good for your health anyway. Eating them during your period will especially benefit your body.
Fish
This lean protein is also rich in iron. However, it also comes with other nutrients you need during your period such as protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s in fish like salmon and tilapia help alleviate the intensity of period pain. Some women experience other symptoms during their period such as mood swings and depression. One study in 2014 states omega-3s could also reduce these symptoms.
Lentils and Beans
While you’re making that nice-looking salmon, why not add some lentils or beans to go along with it? These legumes are a great meat replacement for vegans and vegetarians. Adding beans to your diet will also raise your iron levels. People who start whole-foods plant-based diets implement beans into their diet as well.
Fruits
Water-based fruits such as watermelon and cucumbers are great for staying hydrated during your menstrual period. Anything with water in it is always essential to your health. Fruits are better than high-sugary foods like cookies in curbing these cravings. So eat plenty of fruits to ease symptoms such as headaches and nausea.
Nuts
The last nutritious food to help ease the symptoms of a menstrual period is nuts. Whether you like walnuts, pecans, or pistachios, nuts are another food that is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They are rich in protein, magnesium, and vitamins. Nuts are considered a great snack to eat in between meals.
While you’re on your period, there are plenty of other foods you can implement into your diet. These five are just the tip of the iceberg. So when you start to feel those symptoms during this time, be sure to eat healthy to have a happy period.
What are your favorite foods to eat during that time of the month? How about foods you avoid? Let me know in the comments section below. As usual, be sure to like or share this post with a sister, girlfriend, or any other woman you know.
