Avoid These Foods, Embrace These Others: A Guide to Managing Menstrual Discomfort Through Dietary Choices
Menstruation, a natural process that women go through, brings about various changes in the body due to the fluctuation of hormones. These changes can affect a woman's appetite, weight, and overall well-being. While it is common knowledge that certain dietary adjustments can help manage these symptoms, many women may not be aware of the specific foods that can exacerbate menstrual discomfort.
25 March 2024
According to a recent discussion on Weibo, four categories of food should be avoided during menstruation. The first is alcohol, which can cause blood vessels to dilate and increase blood flow, leading to heavier bleeding. This can be particularly problematic for women who already experience heavy or prolonged periods. The second category is sweet foods, which can interfere with the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals that help alleviate menstrual pain. While many women may not be aware of this, sweet foods can actually contribute to menstrual discomfort.
The third category is spicy, oily, or greasy foods. During the week leading up to menstruation, women may experience skin issues such as acne, oiliness, and roughness. Consuming these types of foods can exacerbate these symptoms and lead to further discomfort.
The fourth and final category is acidic foods and beverages. According to traditional Chinese medicine, acidic foods can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow, leading to decreased menstrual flow. This can be particularly problematic for women who already experience light periods or irregular cycles. While it is important to avoid these foods during menstruation, there are also foods that can be beneficial. For example, eating eggs boiled with angelica (dong quai) is said to be especially beneficial for women during menstruation. This is because angelica has been traditionally used to regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate cramps. Additionally, it is important to maintain a balanced diet during menstruation. Consuming foods that are high in antioxidants, such as fresh fruits, can help alleviate menstrual discomfort and promote overall health. For example, fresh apricots and dried goji berries are both high in antioxidants and can be beneficial during menstruation. While it is important to avoid certain foods during menstruation, it is equally important to maintain a balanced diet. "A balanced diet is key to managing menstrual discomfort," says Dr.
Li, a gynecologist at a hospital in Beijing. "By avoiding trigger foods and incorporating beneficial foods, women can help alleviate menstrual discomfort and promote overall health." In conclusion, while menstruation can be a difficult time for many women, making dietary adjustments can help alleviate discomfort and promote overall health. By avoiding certain foods and incorporating beneficial ones, women can help manage their menstrual cycles and promote overall well-being.
It is important to remember that everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is important to listen to one's own body and make adjustments accordingly.