You know it is that time of the month when you see-saw between fluctuating hormones, water-retention, bloating, cramping, cravings, and mood swings. It’s certainly not one of the best times of the month for a woman. It’s a well-documented fact that Premenstrual Symptoms (PMS) have disrupted diets. Remember the time when you’ve caught yourself raiding the fridge at odd hours? During your monthly cycle you can optimise your energy levels, and have a better handle over your mood swings. All you need to do is follow a healthy balanced diet, or simply eat correctly. Devika Prakash, dietician-nutritionist, suggests, “Keep it simple and get back to basics. All you need to do is eat a balanced diet every day (get all your food groups in every day), eat fruits and vegetables with as many meals as possible, get a variety within each food group—enjoy the seasonal headliner or shop for frozen foods that are picked at their prime to get a variety of vitamins and minerals daily.” She adds, “To prevent, and cope with PMS symptoms, replace seriously unhealthy cravings with these seven healthy foods by adding them to your diet to consume the adequate amount of nutrients needed.”
Spinach
Spinach delivers a megaload of magnesium. Just one leafy cup provides 40 percent of your daily value—so try subbing it for lettuce on sandwiches and salads. Or whip up a hot side of wilted spinach to pair with your next PMS-busting dinner.
Oranges
Studies indicate that women who get a larger amount of calcium and vitamin D experience less intense PMS symptoms. Why? Calcium reduces depressive and anxious feelings in the brain while vitamin D regulates the enzyme that converts tryptophan into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate moods. You can also try yoghurt, which also contains live cultures to promote healthy digestion.
Almonds
It’s especially important during your period to get enough lean protein and fibre, which help even your blood sugar, therefore reducing cravings for the no-no stuff. Try some almonds or even a pear when the mid-afternoon cravings begin!
Whole wheat
Whole grains are filled with health benefits. They’re an excellent source of magnesium, which helps to reduce muscle tension, and have Vitamins B and E that chase away the fatigue and depression.
Ginger-honey tea
Got nausea and bloating? Care for a cuppa ginger-honey tea? If you’re not a ginger-honey person, then a pot of chamomile tea is good for you! Tea is known to relieve muscle spasms and reduce tension that leads to anxiety and irritability.
Foods to nix the period pain
