Learn how to eat in sync with your cycle for better menstrual health
When it comes to dealing with menstrual pain, certain remedies probably come to mind: over-the-counter painkillers, heat packs and long hours in just the right position on the couch. You may not think food has anything with managing your cycle unless it's armfuls of chocolate (which actually can relax the muscles in the uterus, provided it is magnesium-rich dark chocolate). But there are many other foods you can eat to relieve the pain.
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For instance, it is advisable to load up on anti-inflammatory foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as flax seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, dark leafy greens. For those who don't mind a stronger taste, ginger and turmeric are proven pain relievers, especially when brewed into tea. If you're looking for more natural alternatives to dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, cashews and almonds are also filled with magnesium to fight fatigue and squash the pain from your cramps.
And to prevent the brain fog and tiredness that often comes with menstruating, it can be helpful to replenish the body with iron-rich foods such as cooked spinach, apricots, meats, tofu, lentils, and oysters. For more efficient iron absorption, you can pair them with fruits and vegetables that are high in vitamin C.
