Foods to Eat for a More Comfortable Period

Did you know that diet can have a big impact on your PMS symptoms and how you feel during your period?

Diet is an important part of East Asian Medicine. Food provides the essential energy (Qi) and nourishment required for the production of blood and the proper functioning of organs.

A balanced diet helps maintain the smooth flow of Qi and blood throughout the body, which prevents imbalances that can lead to symptoms or illness.

Avoiding certain foods around your period can help reduce discomfort and alleviate symptoms like bloating, painful cramping and fatigue.

I hope you’ll give these dietary tips a try!

I know it can be hard to be strict about your diet when you don’t feel well and just want comfort foods like a warm, gooey brownie or big glass of wine (or both!) right before your period.

But once you try reducing the foods that are worsening your period symptoms, I think you’ll feel SO much better each month that you’ll find these guidelines easy to follow.

You don’t have to eliminate all of these things, of course!

Pick one or two groups per month and try reducing or eliminating them beginning the week before your PMS starts, through the day your period ends.

You’ll likely experience less bloating, cramping, headaches, and fatigue.

Keep a food journal to track what you’re eating and avoiding and any symptoms you’re experiencing. Over time you’ll develop a good idea of what foods worsen your period symptoms, and which are okay for your unique body.

Ready? Here we go!

Food and drinks to avoid:

Very Salty Foods:

Examples: Processed foods, canned soups, chips, and fast food.

Reason: High salt intake can worsen water retention and bloating.

Sugary Foods:

Examples: Sweets, candy, pastries, and sugary drinks.

Reason: Excess sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, causing more intense mood swings, hunger, and worsening fatigue.

Excess Caffeine:

Examples: Coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks.

Reason: Caffeine can increase anxiety, irritability, and disrupt sleep. It may also contribute to breast tenderness and exacerbate cramps.

Alcohol:

Examples: Beer, wine, and spirits.

Reason: Alcohol can dehydrate the body, worsen PMS symptoms, and interfere with sleep patterns.

Refined Carbohydrates:

Examples: White bread, pasta, cake, brownies, and pastries.

Reason: These can cause rapid changes in blood sugar levels, leading to mood swings and energy fluctuations.

Dairy:

Examples: Milk, cheese, and ice cream.

Reason: Especially if you have a sensitive digestion, you may find that dairy increases digestive symptoms around your period like bloating, loose stool, or diarrhea, as well as overall inflammation.

Avoiding these foods and drinks around your period can reduce the severity of menstrual symptoms and make you feel much more comfortable overall. 🙌

Instead, focus on a balanced diet of whole foods, including plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and room-temperature water.

And of course, acupuncture can make your period even more comfortable and smooth.

There’s no reason to suffer every month. We’d love to help! We’ll tailor a plan just for you and your unique body’s needs.

Have questions? Feel free to contact us. Our contact info is below. We are more than happy to chat with you.

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