Enduring the monthly pain, bloating, and emotionally draining symptoms of a menstrual cycle is hard enough, so being told we can’t do the things that seemingly ease our woes when Mother Nature strikes only seems like further punishment, these guilty pleasures can be more harmful than we might think. Thus, staying away from such activities (along with other common poor period practices) will benefit us in the long run.
To have the healthiest, most enjoyable period as we possibly can, we researched things we should avoid. Spoiler: Some of these are crutches during our monthly visit, like coffee and sweets, Are you ready to go
1. Avoid Dairy products
This might come as a surprise to you but dairy products like milk, cream and cheese are some of the foods to avoid during periods. They are high in arachidonic acid which can act as a trigger for menstrual cramps.
2. Red meat
During your period, your body produces prostaglandins. These compounds help your uterus contract and get rid of the uterine lining, resulting in your menstrual flow. However, high levels of prostaglandins cause cramps.
Red meat may be high in iron, but it is also high in prostaglandins and should be avoided during menstruation.
3. Don’t Use a Douche
warns against using douches to cleanse yourself during your period, and using it as a method of hygiene altogether. “In general, douching is not a necessary practice and can disturb the normal microorganisms of the vagina, leading to infections,” Use hot water only because it is more effective and safer than soap that may cause a frenzy
4. Don’t Consume Caffeine
Caffeinated beverages (yes, including coffee) can contribute to increased breast tenderness during your period, Additionally, studies show that caffeine blocks GABA in the brain (the “downer” neurotransmitter), which results in anxiety and increased heart rate, escalating symptoms of PMS. Instead, try decaffeinated green tea, which can help soothe cramps.
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5. Don’t Eat Salty Foods
many women experience water retention (i.e., bloating) during their periods, so it’s best to avoid high amounts of sodium. Since salty foods tend to be very dehydrating, your body overcompensates by stockpiling hydration. However, if you’ve already fallen down the sodium hole and are feeling a bit puffy, drink plenty of water so that you flush out the excess salt and your body can return to its normal state
6. Don’t Forego Protection
While that it’s actually okay to have sex while you’re menstruating, he explains that “there are a few studies that have shown an increased risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease during menstruation, so it is advisable (as always) to practice safe sex.” This increased risk is due in part to the fact that blood will be present during sex, meaning blood-borne diseases are more easily transferred. warns that it is also possible to become pregnant while you’re menstruating, so just another reason to play it safe if you aren’t planning on expanding your family anytime soon.
7. Don’t Use Cleansers With Artificial Fragrance
Using soaps, sprays, or creams with perfumes can also cause vaginal irritation and should be avoided, If you have a strong vaginal odor, it is best to see your gynecologist in case there is an infection or imbalance that can be treated. that perfumes “contribute to an overgrowth of odor-producing bacteria,” so try using a more natural product like SweetSpot On-the-Go Wipes ($8) when you want to freshen up during your cycle (and when you’re not menstruating).
8. Don’t Wait Too Long to Take Pain Medication
If you experience painful cramps during your period, advises you not to wait to treat your symptoms: “Many women wait too long to take pain medication such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These slow down the production of substances that cause pain, so taking the medications at the first sign of your period can reduce the symptoms proactively.”
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9. Don’t Be a Couch Potato
Get up and get moving when your cycle kicks in. “There are no specific activities to avoid. Some women find that exercise and the associated release of endorphins may help to lessen the cramping and pain experienced during their period.” This boost of endorphins is also great for counteracting mood swings so you can stay on the up-and-up.
10. Don’t Leave Sanitary Products in Too Long
Regularly changing your pad or menstrual cup is an essential part of good hygiene, For women using tampons, changing every four to six hours is an important step to prevent toxic shock syndrome.” At a minimum, cups should be changed every 12 hours, and pads every three to four hours.
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11. Sugar
It’s OK to have sugar in moderation, but eating too much of it can cause a spike in energy followed by a crash. This can worsen your mood. If you tend to feel moody, depressed, or anxious during your period, watching your sugar intake can help regulate your mood.
12. Alcohol
Alcohol can have a number of negative effects on your body, which can exacerbate the symptoms of your period.
For example, alcohol can dehydrate you, which can worsen headaches and cause bloating. It can also lead to digestive issues, such as diarrhea and nausea. Plus, a hangover can bring on some of the same symptoms that occur during your period, including:
- headaches
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- fatigue
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13. Spicy foods
Many people find that spicy food upset their stomachs, giving them diarrhea, stomach pain, and even nausea. If your stomach struggles to tolerate spicy foods or if you’re not used to eating them, it might be best to avoid them during your period.
14. Legumes
Kidney beans, black-eyed peas, chickpeas, and all legumes cause bloating. Keep them off your plate to keep discomfort to a minimum.
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Cravings explained
It’s common to have cravings during or after your period. Progesterone, a hormone that is at its peak just before your period, is associated with a bigger appetite, according to a 2011 study. As such, you might feel hungrier at that time.
Plus, if your mood is low, you might feel the need for comfort food. Eat the foods you enjoy, but remember that moderation is key.
The bottom line
Certain foods are great to eat during your period, while others can worsen your symptoms. The foods you choose to eat or avoid will largely depend on your specific symptoms and food sensitivities.
If your periods are particularly painful, to a point that you have difficulty functioning, see a doctor. This could be a symptom of a deeper health issue.
Read also: What The Color of Your Period Blood Can Tell You About Your Menstrual Cycle and your health
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