Us girls dread that time of the month where we just feel miserable. Men are lucky they don’t have to go through this like we do. We always know when it’s about to be that time when we get our periods. We start getting cranky, have terrible mood swings (I know I get them bad) and, we feel exhausted all day. We think we look fat because we are bloated and then there are the food cravings. It’s never ending with our symptoms yet we have been dealing with this pretty much our whole lives and we have long ways to go!
When it comes to food though, we women crave junk food. Well most of us do anyway. Chocolate, pizza, chips, you name it – we eat it. Not sure why our bodies crave it more during our periods but it just happens. Period cravings are no joke. We should be eating healthier foods and that’s why I am about to tell you some of the best foods you should be eating during that time of the month rather than a bowl of ice cream.
1. Leafy Greens:
Foods that are dark green color are the best ones to eat this time of the month such as spinach, kale, swiss chard and collard greens. The reason is that these leafy greens are rich in iron which we lose a lot of during our periods. You don’t have to eat them by themselves though. Mix them in with salads, smoothies, etc. There are endless possibilities.
2. Yogurt:
Yogurt is a great food to have during this time of the month. It is full of calcium which can help reduce PMS symptoms and help relax your muscles. Yogurt also contains live cultures which are great for digestion.
3. Bananas:
One of my all-time favorite fruits, bananas are full of potassium and contain many other vitamins that help boost your mood and reduce bloating. Bananas also can help regulate your bowels which is very important as well because some people experience problems going to the bathroom during their period.
4. Chocolate:
Yes chocolate is on this list. But not just any chocolate, you need the darkest kind (60 percent or higher) which has the antioxidants and magnesium in it. This will help with mood swings and help regulate serotonin which is the happy hormone! So yes, you may have chocolate but, remember 60 percent or higher.
5. Fish:
The best fish to have are Salmon and Tuna. Both are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which help play an important role with relaxing your muscles and nerves. It will also help with cramping and mood swings too. If you aren’t a fan of fish, aim for nuts such as walnuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, flaxseed.
6. Whole Grains:
Whole grains are an excellent source of magnesium which helps reduce muscle tension in your body and can also help with fatigue. Whole grains are also a great source of fiber that will help keep you fuller longer.
7. Red Meats:
Of course, red meats are full of iron which we need a lot of since we lose a lot at this time too. It will also help with improving your energy and promote radiant skin.
8. Tea:
Tea is perfect for this time of the month. Aim for herbal teas which help fight cramps and reduce tension in the muscles. Aim for Chamomile Tea and Ginger tea which I think are the best two to have. You can always go for green tea, peppermint and other kinds as well. Just try to avoid the caffeinated ones which can worsen cramps.