It’s a guaranteed monthly visitor and, in some cases, it can really prevent a woman from living normally.
Period pain is something that can really affect a woman’s quality of life. It’s a guaranteed monthly visitor and, in some cases, it can really prevent a woman from living normally.
Many women avoid leaving the house or attending social gatherings because the pain is a massive uncomfortable distraction.
For many, painkilling medication is at the ready and is the only thing which offers them relief. There are also a number of holistic therapies that women find helpful in relieving the pain and inflammation that their monthly friend causes them. Massage and acupuncture are very popular.
In other cases, light exercise such as walking or swimming is believed to take the edge of the pain as it encourages better blood circulation and repair.
Did you know that you could also improve period pain with some changes to your diet? By making a couple of swaps or trying some new foods you might just find a winning combination to ease those dreaded monthly cramps.
Here are some foods that are believed to improve period pain – we are off to do the shopping!
1. Ginger
Ginger is a food that can be used in a variety of dishes such as curries, soups and stir-fries. It has a fresh earthy flavour with a citrusy twist. Ginger is known for its anti-nausea properties as well as tummy pain soothing qualities.
2. Blueberries
These little beauties can be used in salads, smoothies or just as a snack on the go. Blueberries can be eaten fresh or bought frozen and they are believed to fight inflammation and reduce pain as a result.
3. Salmon
There are so many health benefits of eating Salmon. It is full of omega-3-fatty acids and is an all-around superfood. It is also connected to relieving joint tenderness which could be a symptom of period discomfort for you.
4. Olive Oil
Olive oil is believed to have lots of pain relieving properties. It contains lubricin which ensures that joints slide and move freely. This can help with pain and discomfort.
5. Peppermint
Using the leaves in salads or smoothies or drinking the tea could really make a difference to your discomfort levels. It is linked to relieving cramps and improving any issues you might be having with gas.
6. Coffee
It is believed that caffeine helps to improve our perception of pain rather than improving the pain itself – we don’t need much encouragement in the caffeine department so more coffee it is!
7. Turmeric
This spice has been used for centuries to ease pain and aid digestion. It is known for protecting the body from joint inflammation and helps to encourage cell function. Both of these things can help improve pain.
8. Hot Peppers
Spice up your life and help reduce pain by including more spicy peppers in your diet. Experts believe that it could help with pain!
Tracey is a happy mammy to four-year-old Billy. She is a breastfeeder, gentle parent and has recently lost five stone so healthy family eating is her passion! You can find her at www.loveofliving.ie.
