5 Foods That Make Menstrual Cramps Worse

Eating right is important in our everyday lives. However, it is most important during one’s menstrual period. You cannot choose to eat anything and everything without suffering the consequences. Below are foods to avoid in order minimise cramps and pain.

Salty Foods

During menstruation, there will be instances of bloating and water retention. To alleviate some the discomfort you can lower sodium intake. High-sodium foods can increase already existing bloating and discomfort, so try to stay away from foods like chips, french fries, and canned foods.

Coffee

Caffeine is a vasco-constrictor. It makes blood vessels constrict and may cause the vessels that feed the uterus to tighten. If you need a boost of energy to get you through the day, try switching to tea for the first few days of your period, as it contains less caffeine, therefore having a minimal effect on cramping and bloating.

Fatty Meats

Many heavy meats are high in saturated fats, which can worsen period pains.Certain fats contains arachidonic acid, which produces prostaglandins that can cause uterine contractions and cramping. Eating a diet high in saturated fat during the first few days of your period can lead to bloating, breast tenderness and breakouts.

Processed Foods

Trans fats, also known as hydrogenated oils, are found in junk foods such as french fries, packaged foods and desserts, and they can worsen your period symptoms. These detrimental fats cause inflammation in the body, and can worsen pains you already experience while menstruating.

Sugar

Blood sugar fluctuates during menstruation. By consuming more of the sweetener, you’re only adding fuel to the fire by letting blood sugar levels rise and drop drastically. If you’re having an insatiable craving for something sweet, try eating some natural sugars such as figs or dates, which keep your blood sugar levels more stable.