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Dealing with PMS every month can be tough, and when you’re suffering from cramps and bloating, you’ll do almost anything to find relief. Dietary changes can help you get your PMS symptoms under control. You can find health tips to start your journey from A Natural Endeavor! Here are ten Foods that Relieve Cramps, as well as recommendations on staying hydrated, finding the right insurance coverage, and getting gentle exercise.
Salmon and Sardines
This is the perfect time to indulge in seafood like salmon or cook with sardines. That’s because both of these fish provide plenty of Vitamin D. Combined with calcium, this essential vitamin enhances your bone health and keeps you feeling strong and energized.
Bananas
Trying to go about your day while coping with period cramps isn’t easy. Thankfully, foods like bananas can help you keep your cramps at bay. This is because cramps can be partially caused by a lack of potassium, and HealthDigest states that bananas contain high levels of potassium. Try eating bananas leading up to your period to prevent cramps from starting.
Eggs
Starting your day with eggs can help you avoid frustrating PMS symptoms. AlloHealth states that eggs contain lots of crucial nutrients for women, like iron, protein, and choline. They are also very satiating and will keep you feeling full for hours, so you’re less likely to deal with cravings.
Yogurt
Eating yogurt is another great way to ensure that you’re getting plenty of calcium. Sometimes, a lack of calcium can exacerbate PMS symptoms. Therefore, it’s a smart idea to include a cup of yogurt in your breakfast if you’re expecting your period.
Pineapple
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, cut up a pineapple! This tasty fruit is rich in manganese, which can help ease a range of PMS symptoms, like depression and mood swings. You can snack on pineapple chunks or add them to a smoothie.
Peanut Butter and Pumpkin Seeds
Eating nuts and seeds are two tasty ways to combat PMS. If a lack of zinc is the culprit behind your PMS symptoms, pumpkin seeds can help boost your levels. On the other hand, if you’re not getting enough Vitamin E, a good source like peanut butter can reduce your cramps.
Chickpeas and Lentils
If you’re not eating enough sources of Vitamin B6, you might notice low moods and achiness during your period. Eating legumes like chickpeas and lentils can boost your Vitamin B6 levels.
Staying Hydrated
If you feel sluggish during your period, you might feel tempted to drink lots of coffee to wake yourself up. But caffeine is a diuretic, and this habit can leave you dehydrated – which will only worsen your fatigue. Instead, drink plenty of water to boost your energy levels.
Gentle Exercise
When you have your period, you might not feel up for intense workouts. That’s okay! Instead, make some time in your day for gentle movement. Taking a stroll around your neighborhood will let you stretch your legs without overexerting yourself. This is especially fun if you live in a neighborhood with a good walk score, as it means you’ll have plenty of interesting destinations nearby to check out.
Getting Medical Treatment
What if you’ve been suffering from severe PMS symptoms? Working with a doctor or dietitian can help you get to the root of the issue. Double-check your health insurance plan to see if these visits will be covered, and if you’re a freelancer, consider shopping around to get the coverage you need.
Final Thoughts on Foods that Relieve Cramps
No one wants to deal with PMS. But by planning your diet around foods that benefit your hormones, you can manage your symptoms. Furthermore, finding the right health insurance policy, staying physically active during your period, and drinking lots of water can help you feel your best.
