Best Foods for Period/Menstrual Cramps

If you've ever curled up with a heating pad during that time of the month, this one's for you. Menstrual cramps, or as some like to call them, "period cramps," can make those days feel never-ending. But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. Dietitian Ethel Lim from KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) has spilled the beans on what foods might just be your new best friends when cramps kick in.

Understanding Menstrual Cycle and Symptoms

A woman's menstrual cycle usually hums along, taking around 21-35 days on average, with 28 days being the standard. And that week-long period? It shouldn't be a moment longer. Common symptoms might include bloating, water retention, your brain feeling like a foggy mess, and well, getting a bit snappy. We've all been there, right?

Calcium and Its Benefits

Calcium's not just for strong bones. Nope, it also plays a part in reducing those pesky cramp pains, and helps with bloating and water retention. You can find calcium hanging out in places like dairy products (think milk, yogurt, and cheese), fish with the edible bones still in, and even in calcium-fortified soy milk and tofu.

The Importance of Fibre

Let's talk about fiber. It keeps things moving, if you know what I mean, making you feel less like a balloon. Two servings of fruits and veggies daily and wholegrain products should do the trick. Oh, and don't forget to wash it down with plenty of fluids, or else, hello constipation!

Magnesium and How It Helps

Got headaches and cramps? Magnesium might be your go-to. You can find it in dark chocolate (yes, please!), avocados, dark green leafy veggies, almonds, and, yep, those wholegrain products again.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin B12

Here's a tag team for you - Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B12. Together, they've been found to pack a punch more than omega-3s alone. Good stuff like seafood, eggs, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds should be on your shopping list before your period.

Vitamin E and Its Effectiveness

Want to kick those menstrual pains to the curb? Studies show up to 500 IU of vitamin E daily might just do the trick. Load up on wheat germ, dry roasted sunflower seeds, almonds, or even a spoonful of peanut butter.

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