Foods That Help Ease Menstrual Cramps
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Common Causes Of Menstrual Cramps
The most common cause for menstrual cramps or primary dysmenorrhea is when the uterus, a muscle, contracts and the pain associated is caused by this muscle losing its supply of oxygen. The pain usually begins a couple of days before a women's cycle and can last for the first couple of days of their period. When this pain becomes to unbearable to handle on its own you can take over the counter pain relievers such as Ibuprofen, apply a heat compress, and avoid certain foods. Some women find comfort with oral contraceptives as well as maintain a healthy lifestyle with diet and regular exercise.
If you find yourself in a fetal position time after time with immense pain associated with menstrual cramps be sure to contact your gynecologist and make sure it is not a sign of a more serious health condition. But if you are like many of the women who battle with the annoying and agonizing pain that comes with your monthly visit and would like to aid the cramps with a natural approach then your in luck, with certain foods you can ease your menstrual cramps as well as help your over all diet.
Why We Have Food Cravings During Our Period
Usually women experience cravings as well as the desire to eat more about a week before their period not to mention fatigue and a general rise in emotions. All three of these symptoms have the tendency of over taking a woman's better judgement, just ask their significant other, but the main focus to in aiding these common symptoms is prevention. If you consume an excess amount of caffeine, alcohol, or a diet that is high in saturated fat maybe now is the time to cut back to better relieve your menstrual cramps as well as your overall mood swings associated with your period and the dreaded p.m.s.
I don't know about you but during the week before my period my mood swiftly changes from tearing up over a commercial to complete rage among my loved ones, just ask my significant other about this. As a woman changes whether she has bore children or has a family history of painful menstrual cramps her body will transition with age, diet, and her habits good and bad. If you suffer from severe menstrual cramps on a month to month basis and do not suffer from a serious condition, think of your pain as your body communicating with you to change your eating habits at least during your period, your body will thank you as well as everyone who has to work and live with you.
So why do we have cravings for fatty foods, and why do we have an increased appetite before and during our periods? This is actually a natural order of mammal reproduction. What I mean by that is all female mammal body's biological clock will tend to go into a breeding state, and their estrogen levels will peak at the time they are fertile, and the body's natural reaction is to consume more calories to help fertilization of the egg that has been ovulated.
Women with a higher body fat percentage will have an easier time getting pregnant than a women who are thinner, keeping in mind this is at a healthy level of your BMI. So when your having a hankering for a fatty food, blame evolution's need for procreation, and guy's wonder why we are moody.... But for the sake of this article let's assume you are not trying to get pregnant, you are overall pretty healthy, and desire a natural and healthy alternative to ease your menstrual cramps.
Foods That Ease Menstrual Cramps
Think whole foods when you are trying to ease those menstrual cramps, like whole grain, fresh fruit and vegetables, and with in this category go for the whole foods that are rich in calcium and magnesium. Broccoli and kale are great as well as whole wheat pastas and breads, brown rice. Also when you eat your whole veggies and fruits leave the skins on, the majority of nutrients lie in the skin as well as helping your body absorb the vitamins they contain.
Take the orange for example, it is widely known for its healthy dose of vitamin C although in order for your body to absorb the vitamin c it is necessary to leave the pith on the orange, that bitter white stuff we pick off. The pith contains ascorbic acid that enable the vitamin c to nourish your body, if you take an oral vitamin C pill take a glance at the ingredients, you will see some type of ascorbic acid there and this is why.
Chocolate And Your Period
I wanted to dedicate a section to talk about chocolate because during a woman's period it is her only confidant and does have some good health benefits. Is is also considered an anti oxidant that can help your mood as well as fight the sugar cravings. Though it is only the dark chocolate that contains these health benefits and 1 to 2 ounces a day is suggested, so put down the sugar glazed doughnut because the chocolate that covers this does not count. I always carry a couple of dark chocolate mini bars with me especially when I am going out to eat to avoid over indulgence. I will eat half of the portion and then eat an ounce of dark chocolate this will send a blocker to my brain that tells my stomach that I have had enough.
Flax Seed
A tablespoon or two per day can help with your cramps, you can sprinkle it over you cereal or add it to a smoothie for a morning boost. Some grocers will sell it in an oil form or the actual seed. If you buy the oil form, then be sure it says cold pressed on the bottle and that it is stored in a cooler, this is an indication it is of very good quality.
Fish
Fish that contain Omega 3 fatty acids not only help a woman's heart health it also contains an anti-inflammatory effect that can help with cramps as well as bloating. Salmon being the most known source that contains this mighty anti oxidant but tuna, Pacific herring, and mackerel also pack a good punch as well.
Foods To Avoid With Menstrual Cramps
This is another way to help ease menstrual cramps, and to prevent painful periods. Caffeine and alcohol should be completely avoided, which to some maybe a hard thing to give up but your body and mind will be better off in doing so. Try to eat smaller meals more frequently this helps to avoid dips in your blood sugar which can make you feel sluggish. Red meats and dairy should be avoided as well, they actually increase the production of prostaglandins which contributes to menstrual cramps.
Books To Help Menstrual Cramps
- The new Harvard guide to women\'s health - Karen J. Carlson, Stephanie A. Eisenstat, Terra Diane Zip
- Asian Health Secrets: The Complete ... - Letha Hadady - Google Books
A complete introduction to herbal medicine for the novice and an authoritative reference for the expert, "Asian Health Secrets" offers practical advice on how to use a variety of herbs, teas, extracts, and pills as safe and inexpensive alternatives o - The green pharmacy: new discoveries ... - James A. Duke - Google Books
With A-to-Z entries that include over 120 health conditions, James Duke's The Green Pharmacy is an authoritative, readable guide to the world of herbal healing. From traditional folk remedies to groundbreaking laboratory studies, Dr. Duke provides up
Other Sites That Help Ease The Pain Of Period Cramps
- Menstrual cramps - MayoClinic.com
Menstrual cramps — Comprehensive overview covers causes, treatment and self-care tips for getting relief. - How to Reduce Menstrual Cramps: 14 steps (with pictures) - wikiHow
How to Reduce Menstrual Cramps. Having your period is hard enough without any complications. Now you have to deal with cramps on top of the hormonal imbalances and the regular side effects! Cramps are caused by the contraction of your... - Menstrual Cramps - Self Help for Painful Menstrual Cramps
Menstrual cramps cause painful periods for many women. Learn how to cope with menstrual cramps through self help tips and advice.
Recipe Ideas During Your Period
One quick and easy way to convert your diet during your period is to substitute ingredients that contain the ideals written above.
- Substitute omega-3 enriched eggs or use egg whites instead of whole eggs
- When using sugar for a recipe use a 1/3 less
- Use extra virgin olive oil instead of vegetable or canola oil
- Choose low fat options with health benefits, like a butter/olive oil spread versus margarine or all butter.
One of my favorite recipes:
Orange Chicken
1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken, cut in 1 in. pieces
2Tbs. olive oil
1 onion, medium diced
1 can (14oz) low sodium chicken broth
1 1/2 Cup low sugar orange juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
Dash of cinnamon
3 tsp. curry powder ( your favorite)
3 Tbs raisins ( I like the golden for this recipe)
1/2 Cup brown rice
In large frying pan heat the olive oil over medium heat, add chicken and onion and cook till chicken golden brown. Add the remaining ingredients except the raisins, lower heat, cover with an air tight lid and simmer for about 45 minutes. Add raisins and rice, cover and simmer again for about 20-25 minutes till rice is done(brown rice tends to take longer) adding more broth or water if necessary. Season with salt and pepper. I like to add toasted sliced almonds for a crunchy texture before serving and a spinach salad with a low fat vinaigrette. This can feed up to four people and the leftovers just get better the next day.
Again, if you experience abnormal menstrual cramps or heavy bleeding be sure to check with your gynecologist to ensure there is not something serious occurring.
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS): Alternative medicine - MayoClinic.com
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Comprehensive overview covers signs and symptoms, treatments and self-care remedies.
- Chocolate cravings and PMS | Go Ask Alice!
Got a question or query about men and women health but a little uncomfortable to ask? Just go ask Alice...She will give it to you straight.
- Cravings food. Exercise period. Comfort food recipes and pms food. Period bloating - always.com
Cravings food. Exercise period. Comfort food recipes. Tips for staying active while you're on and off your period.
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Ha, Ha you maybe the only one too. Good info for your lady then!! Thank you for reading I do appreciate it!
My cramps are very bad. I have flax seed in pantry and will definitely use it during my menstrual period. I don't like fish, but I will try it if it can relieve my cramps or make it better. I do take fish oil and flax seed oil supplement daily.
All those are intended to help, I try to avoid spicy foods, and anything that is hard to digest for my system. I don't take a lot of aspirin so when I do it really helps. Thanks for reading!!
Are there any medications that help this because I am allergic to aspirin and the other one doesn't help me at all.
Are there any medications that help this because I am allergic to aspirin and the other one doesn't help me at all.
Is it okay to take Acetaminophen then? If that is the case then the best thing that works for me is a pain reliever just for menstrual pain. I bought a generic brand similar to Pamprin and it rocks! Each dose contains 1000mgs of Acetaminophen along with other key ingredient that help bloating, moodiness, headache, and fatigue. I can take just one dose (2) and it will last about 6 hours.
I hope this helps. I also once applied icy hot to my abdominal area and ironically it helped. Smelled bad, but hey it did the trick
Very helpful! I just wrote a ton about chocolate and im so glad that it will help me when I'm feeling low energy and blah! Thanks for this!
Thank you Danareva,
As they say, chocolate is a girl's best friend, now we have the proof! I would love to read your article about chocolate, I will head over to your hubs and look for it.
A new approach to an age-old dilemma. Nice hub!!
Jenubouka I find that taking the aspirin two weeks prior to the menstrual cramps helps to alleviate the pain tremendously. Great female support.
What a great hub. I never knew that certain foods help to relieve menstrual pain. During my cycle, I found myself taking Tylenol and drinking lots of warm liquids. I also used a filled hot water bottle wrapped in a towel to ease my suffering. Thank God I do not have to deal with this anymore. I will pass this information down to my daughter. Voted up!!!!
Hi Melanie,
Isn't that the truth! Thanks so much, have a great day.
That is some great advice! Thanks so much, I was hoping for some other tips to revise the hub and include them with the hubber, so look for your link!! I will try that, although entering my mid thirties the damn thing has a mind of its own.
Hi Nina!
Yes you lucky, lucky woman. I find it is a good excuse for a good couple of days to sit and do nothing. Hope it helps your daughter for the long run.
Thankyou for this hub. This is what I've been looking for. I always make sure I take an over the counter pain reliever at the start of my period to prevent cramps from occurring. My cramps can get pretty serious if I don't take pain relievers such as fainting =[
I am bookmarking this one and will show it to my daughter. She is in her teens and suffers every month. She will be happy to learn chocolate is a good thing. Love your comment about the chocolate covered doughnut! Voted up and useful! I personally only suffer the first day, so easing that will make me happy as well.
Hi Smiiley,
I am so happy to have helped! Hey if we are going to have to endure this irritating thing every month might as well learn to eat with it....
yikes, that is pretty bad when you faint over it! The best pain aid I have found is a generic brand of menstrual cramp pain relief. Thanks for reading!
Thanks so much, brsmom68!
As a teen it can be difficult for the body is still evolving and to put a painful period on top of it, can be rough. Yes thank goodness there is a real reason why we need our chocolate! I hope this helps!! The flaxseed is great as well.
I have also found the starch in potatoes to also be very helpful with this problem
Very, very cool leann2800!
This will be simple to do since potatoes are my most favorite food, and this gives me more reasons to eat them!
Very informative! I will forward this to my daughter. She gets severe menstrual cramps and Doctor told her to take Naproxen for it. Voted up!
Interesting hub!
Thanks for sharing this. Good to know that there are natural options to ease menstrual cramps
Very cool, and thank you urmil,
Never heard of that although I do hope it helps.
Thanks for reading and commenting advisor!
Organicrecipes,
Yes it is wonderful to know that nature can help ease the common pains with cramps. The flaxseed has been the best form of aid for myself lately. Thanks for commenting.
Menstrual pain is the most common problem faced by women. You have given brilliant tips to ease the pain.
Hi Mala,
Thanks so much for commenting and reading! While menstrual cramps are common, they are not an enjoyable thing, especially every month.
Interesting post..Thanks
Sadly he's not the only man haha. Very interesting hub! Nutrition is definitly the key to easing pain of any kind. Pain relievers only mask the symptoms until they multiply 10 fold.
World of wow,
Well, whaa-whoo! The second man to comment, so I thank you kindly. Your comment holds so true in the long run of the scheme of things, thank you so much for stopping by.
Very informative hubs. I like to stir in some flax seeds when I make Muffins/cakes. Stir fly zucchini with roasted flax seeds is also very delicious. I also like my salad topped with roasted flax seeds. Yummy!
Hi Kittyjj:
That is some very good ideas! Thanks for sharing and commenting. I never thought to add them to a stir fry, very unique and clever!
There are some really great things in this article! For example I had no idea that stuff I pick off the orange is actually good for me! I have AWFUL cramps (like fetal position for a day) so I'm going to try changing my diet next time to see if it helps. I also love the tip about eating half a portion then eating some dark chocolate. What a great method and tip! Also thanks for the recipe about Orange Chicken! I love that stuff.
Hi Elayne,
Oh how I can agree with the fetal position! Thanks so much for reading and commenting, I am glad you found the info helpful. Chocolate is a girl's best friend for many reasons and this proves it!
Surprised this doesn't have more comments. Every woman here should read this. Great hub, with lots of great advice. Thanks for the hub!
I also heard alcohol should be given up during a period, so I did.
Then one day the man in my life, who I adore so much said,
“Oh so that’s why you’re so hard to be around during your period, it’s not the period as such, but you not having your 5 o’clock glass of white wine, give me back the period only Lily for heaven sake”.
Men you just have to love them,
Because of my birth control I have my cycle every three months though it helps I still have bad cramps it used to be alot worse! I thought this artical was veru usefull I never knew about most of the foods you listed I always used hot drinks and over the counter pain meds to reduce my cramps the recpie provied sounds tasty although I love my fruites and veggies so thats going to be my first choice thanks for the info!
Hi Urgul,
Thanks so much for the warm comment. I am glad it helped!
A worthy cause indeed lol!! Great info, thanks :)
Hi Lily,
That is pretty funny! Till men have one of their own, no they will never get it. Though I would never want to endear that! Thanks so much for reading!
Hi Jasper!
I have wondered about that type of birth control and if it was effective in the sense of handling cramps. Gotta love the power of food! Thank so much for your warm comment and hope the foods help.
Thanks so much chelsea!
hey, us women need to know all we can to ease our inherited ailments!
Very interesting and super helpful!
Taking note and planning to buy dark chocolate as my period is coming in the next few days LOL :) Great tips!
Thanks Roxanne!
I hope it helps!
That is what I am talking about ripplemaker! We women should automatically get a discount on chocolate!
Great hub! Im defiantly going to try some of those suggestions. very useful information
Great hub! thanks for sharing! I now have an idea how to avoid Menstrual Cramps:)
Thanks so much for the comment and hope it helps!
Thanks so much for the comment! Hope it helps.
Thanks Jolie!
Menstrual cramps can be a pain..no pun intended, the flaxseed really helped me. Thanks for reading!
I have been having cramps on my periods and I will try these eating these foods, Thanks
Hi Gracenduta,
Thanks so much for checking out the hub and I hope the foods help with the cramps. Don't forget the Chocolate!
As far as I know I am not a woman, but I'll definitely be sharing this article with a few friends and family. Great info!
Ah that is awesome wretched Rapture!
They will thank you I am sure. Thanks for reading, really appreciate the male visitors! Take care.
I learned a lot today from this article, not so much for myself, because thankfully at my age I don't have to worry about menstrual cramps, but for my youngest daughter who suffers horribly once a month. She loves Salmon, so no problem there, and it shouldn't be hard for her to give up coffee considering how much she has to gain by doing so. The dark chocolate tip to send the brain that all important signal is good for all ages. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge with us. Voted up, useful and interesting.
That's great mcals71! I am so glad you gained some knowledge to help out your daughters. Love that! And yes, chocolate knows no age, indulge for the sake of your precious mind!
again, thanks so much, greatly appreciate it!
i don't understand..the article says stay away from dairy products but you should intake alot of calcium.milk falls in both categories so should i drink it or not?
Dairy yes (avoid it), calcium no, a little above that the article suggests to eat whole foods, like leafy greens, which is a great source of calcium and magnesium, however if that does not sound appealing to you, you can always take a supplement.
hope that helped clear it up!
I used to pass out when I was in my teens. Thankfully, I outgrew that and went to fetal position. My mom read an article about acupressure and she found out that there is a spot in the arch of your foot that when massaged was supposed to relieve period cramps and it works pretty well.
This is a good way to get a foot massage from a suffering male so take advantage of it. They are useful at times. lol
I do not have to worry about that now, HOORAY but I have a 15 year old daughter who suffers also. She was put on a low dosage birth control pill to help and it is working somewhat. The foot massage helps also. Between all the things I learned and the things in here maybe we can help her out. I will get her some flax seed and salmon. She is female and already knows about the chocolate. lol
Hi Becky!
I think as women we are born with an extra gene for the powers of chocolate..
The massage and acupuncture techniques sound awesome! When I up date this hub I will be sure to add your comment in there. I would have to say the flaxseed is the most potent remedy that will prove fast results, however make sure it is cold pressed and when you buy it make sure the store has it refrigerated. Thanks so much for the comment!
Wow! I have almost no more menstrual cramps since I changed my way to eat. I always wondered what have the most impact. I thought about greens, fruits and vegetables, but curiously never thought flax seeds would help that much! I eat a ground table spoon of it each day. Thanks!
That is awesome Miss Crayola! You are the spoken proof of how foods and diet can impact cramps! Thank you for the comment, hope people will really read that!
Very useful! I'll have to try some of these the next time I'm curled up in a ball feeling sorry for myself. Thanks for the info!
That was a great Post. Please keep writing because I love your style of Post.
In this cases, I am really glad I am a man...
Hi sidewinder!
Thanks so much, totally know where you are coming from. This is why I researched which foods to eat, heck I am pretty hungry during this crappy time of the month might as well discover some foods that will "uncurl" the fetal position.
Wow, thanks so much for the awesome compliment! I appreciate the encouragement. Will do khmohsin, will do!
That's awesome sportgames! Thanks for reading, you are officially the forth man to visit here, which is a huge compliment in itself. So thank you.
Hi, you can also use a menstrual calendar for notes, e.g. www.MyMenstrualCalendar.com
Thanks sarah! I am going to check it out and be sure to add that to the hub, I bet many women would benefit from this. Have a great day!
Nice hub! Very informative, thanks!!
Thanks Total Health!!
Glad it was helpful, thank you for your warm comment. Take Care.
Shared :)
I can TOTALLY relate to this hub at this very moment. Sometimes it sucks being a woman, but I am glad I am not a man!
Thanks!!
Oh, how I know sister! I agree with you there, I will take my hormones over a man anyday! Thanks for reading and commenting!
try my tip too
take a bag full of warm sand and pat it on ur area of pain... it really relieves your pain...:)
Very interesting, it reminds me of those microwavable rice bags, same thing I am guessing? Thanks for your tip and commenting!
Oh I love it 'put down the sugar glazed doughnut', but they are so tasty and really hit the spot during this painful, crampy time!
But on a more serious note, flaxseed is a really good supplement to ease the pain of menstrual cramps. I would also add that it is the ground flaxseed that works and not the whole seeds.
Hi editorsupremo! I know right? We scour the naughty food choices which in turn makes it worse, ugh. I did not know that! Thank you for letting me know, I really need to update this with the awesome tips here in the comments, do you mind if I use your name beside the flaxseed tip? Thanks!
Thanks for sharing. I'm always looking for ways to make thinks easier, if you know what I mean. ;)
Thank you for sharing this very interesting hub :) Voted up!
Interesting. Thank you. I would have never guessed fish oil to ALSO be an anti inflammatory.
Hi poisonx3girlx3,
I found that interesting as well. Hey, if it helps ease menstrual cramps, then I am all for that! Thanks for stopping by, take care.
Hi Chris!
Glad you stopped by and got some interesting info, take care!
Yes, Shannon I know exactly what you mean!! I hope these methods are a success for you in the future, take care.
I use flax seed oil in bath and beauty products I make. I wonder if using these on the skin instead of inside the body has any similar effects.
Great info! I'm having a Midol day. Hope some of this stuff helps.
Hi Poisonx3girlx3,
That is a very good question! I do not know, one product that does work on the outside of the body is Bengay. At least for me, I rub it on the area of pain and it helps. Thanks for your comment, let me know if you notice any effects of it.
Hi Sarah,
I hear that! I think the stuff works better than any kind of pain aid. I wish some relief in the suggestions and let me know if it does help. Thanks for reading, take care.
Hi Jenubouka, by all means use my name beside the flaxseed info. Thanks!
Saweet! Thanks editorsupremo. Will do here very soon, this hub's comment section is great with suggestions and needs to be up dated.
This is a really great and useful sharing! Much appreciated. Voted up!
An amazing Hub. Thanks so much for all your wonderful work here. "Awesome." A big vote UP here for your hub! Just had to share it on Twitter and Facebook with my followers! Thanks!
Thanks Joyette, (great name by the way!)
I learned a lot when I researched this topic, mainly learned that many foods I want during my period I shouldn't have, not that is torture! Take care.
Oh wow hvcunits, that is a huge compliment, thank you so much, greatly appreciated. I am glad you enjoyed the hub, take care!
A very informative hub. Thanks for sharing!
thank u jenubouka,very informative hub for my wife. she s suffering this pain every month.
Very useful! So much information here I was not aware of. Thank you very much for sharing this.
Thanks Pandula77! I hope it helps.
Ah bless your heart for reading for your wife. I do hope these methods bring her some relief.
Hi Brandym2012,
Thanks for commenting I am glad it helped.
I follow almost all of the advice you´ve mention above and still suffer from menstrual pain; nevertheless, it is a fact that the pain increases with a high simple carbs diet so I always try to avoid that. In my opinion, healthy eating and living is always the best cure for everything.
You nailed it Claudia, those who suffer immense pain during their period should seek a doctor to make sure it is okay. Most times it is a clean healthy diet that is practiced all the time not just the week of your period. Our bodies have a way of communicating with us when they are not happy with the choices we make. Most people tend to learn the hard way and it will take some months time to see the benefits of a healthy, clean, whole food diet. Thanks for commenting.
i like your hubs. Very informative and good recipe
I kind of gave up on researching causes and remedies, and basically just live on pain meds during that time, lol, but this is a better approach. I'm going to resort back to this next time I need this info :) Thanks!
Hi peachpurple! Thanks so much, take care.
Hi emilybee,
Yes! I do hope you try a natural approach. The pain meds are just temporary and can bring on more pain when they wear off. Flax seed is the way I am telling ya what. Get some at the local health store and swirl a Tablespoon in some yogurt daily for the week before your period...Good luck!
My wife swears by the chocolate thing. I can vouch for her. Her pain definitely diminishes. I am often sent to the store for a chocolate run, and I am happy to do so!
Im happy I ran across this hub, because I have so many issues with cramps. I even took birth control pills to stop my periods, however, I still ahd pain. I drink lots of caffine and eat tons of sugar. So now I understand better why I am having these issues.
What an angel you are Matthew, one to check out a hub for periods and two for getting her chocolate. You rock, thanks!
Hi petealex,
Yes the two things we crave on our period are the two things we are to avoid....Thanks mother nature....Thanks for reading and take care!
Yes. I figure that little Tidbit of information just might save another man's life one day. (blushing)
So put down that sugar glazed doughnut, hehehehe. You really made me laugh with that one. I so resemble that remark. This was a really good hub that I never would have thought to write about. More over it has a rating of 100. Wow!. The idea that others would be interested had me stumped, I mean men. As it were you did have one man comment. It would appear that his partner turns into a serial killer every month, like me. High praise for the Flax Seed info and the great recipe's and the bottom line great journalistic prose in reporting. Cheers F.
this is great to know, I am grateful for the chocolate. I am not so hot about the caffeine, what about Japanese Green tea? the real stuff.. ? great hub as usual, thanks for the info, voting up
this is helpful to me. I always have bad menstrual cramps that could make me faint sometimes when i really can't bear the pain anymore. I usually eat more foods that has vit.c whenever my period is coming near.
Thanks so much Felina! Serial killer is exactly what happens some months..lol. Thanks so much for the kind comment! I am glad it brought smiles and some knowledge. Women's health is a very popular subject to write about!
Thanks primpo!
I will not give up the caffeine, I just won't. Hey if I have a mocha doesn't that cancel it out!? Thanks so much, take care.
Awesome Jhudah, yes Vit. C and all the B's will combat the pain. Since Quaaludes are off the market, might as well go the natural way...Thanks for reading!
I'm hungry now :)
Nice, I will have to try some of these. I was put on birth control at 14 to alleviate my cramps but I have never been particularly happy with this treatment - to treat one's body with synthetic hormones rather than find some more natural route seems to be the way the medical system wants to go. SIGH. Also yams are very good for women's health, and I think cramps. Maybe you should look into that because I can't remember why that is.
LOL, Thank you leros003, you rock my friend!
Sweet Theophanes, I will definitely look in to that! Thank you! I too, shy away from synthetic hormones to balance out the natural rhythms of the body, plus they make me crazy, really. Hope some of the methods work! Take care.
I dontget really badcramps but I have always heard dark chocolatehelps. I figured that since I dont like dark chocolate I convonce myself milk chocolate does the same.
Well...sort of, but hey, when the dreaded time comes, if it helps that is all that matters! Thanks for stopping by, take care.
useful hub.........
You know, it is very essential post. And manu women are really thankful,jenubouka. You are perfect! Thank u
Thank you Shihab! Always love to a guy checking out this one.
Ah what a sweet comment seo4site! Thank you so much, I am glad you enjoyed take care.
Awesome hub! I always have terrible cramps during my period, and I am a heavy coffee drinker. I had no idea there could be a connection between caffein consumption and menstrual cramps, so I will definitely minimize my coffee consumption during my period from now on!
Thank you BethDW! I know it sucks, we are tired yet the one thing that helps our morning kills our monthly pains. One thing to counter act caffeine is to take a teaspoon of flaxseed oil in the morning, it does wonders for the skin as well. Take care!
Awesome hub..Thank you so much
Great hub. I never knew any of this. I can add this new knowledge to my brain:)
Thanks! I am glad you enjoyed.
Well,I can see that this is a popular hub and after reading it, I understand why. I bought flaxseed some time ago because my dad told me of it's other health benefits but I have never gotten around to actually eating it on anything as I wasn't quite sure what to do with it.
I will be sure to try these tips out for next month since I am just finishing up this month and have used my usual method of tylenols and hot water bottle. Knowing there are steps I can follow to avoid or lessen the cramping before it starts, will help immensely.
thanks for the great read and useful tips! Voted up.
Thank you Jessica! I am glad it was informal for you, who knew that our diet could help our monthly agony!
Yeah I will definitely use this to my advantage.:)
Thanks ebookshack!
Flaxseed is a miracle food in my book, start now to reap the benefits for next month, you can either take a teaspoon or swirl it some yogurt or a smoothie. It is also awesome for the skin too! Be sure to keep it in the fridge. It is a good idea to start now to get the real benefits of the foods, yes even the chocolate! Take Care.
I was scrolling through some hubs and this article caught my eye because I, too, menstruate. Sometimes I get cramps, and I'm always interested in food, so naturally I'd be attracted to a hub that features both topics in one article.
As I started to read it, my media player began to play "The Time of the Month" by Harley Poe. I'd set the player on shuffle, so songs were playing at random, and of all the songs to play at that moment it'd "chosen" to play a song about menstruation.
I dissolved into giggles.
The End
Oh Merry Contrary you have given me the fuel to visit your profile with such an incredible comment! Anyone who has a period will experience some kind of discomfort and learning how to combat this with natural resource (I think) is the best remedy. Thank you so much for stopping by!
Nice hub.
Excellent hub - cramps are an under rated problem and deserves all work possible.
Great hub, great advice, thanks for writing this hub :-)
I do experience severe menstrual cramps every single month. I even pass out and then wake up hyperventilating. Some of my self remedies include, of course, warm compress... and coffee. Though right now I'm not sure if I should continue with the coffee. They say it helps relieve but since it contains caffeine.... aahhh menstrual cramps!!! Great hub btw! I'll follow the tips!
Hey Peter! Thank you I love to see men comment and understand the issue! Take care.
Thanks FTmedia, I appreciate the comments!
Hi Veronica!
Yes one report says caffeine is bad then it is okay, it can be confusing. I just listen to my body and have figured out what works for and what works against my period. Take care.
Was lookin for ways to help my fiancee this sites been helpin a ton thanks
That awesome 3oh3! you are an angel! Hope it helps, take care.
very informative.. glad to pass by here :)
thanks a lot for this awesome hub
Great hub. I've been blessed to never have cramps, but often have cravings! I wonder if any of these same food help with contractions during childbirth??
jenubouka,
I have had bad cramps for years. Your article was very informative. I already take fish oil, but you gave me lots of other things to try. One thing that really helps me is Aleve.
Thanks for the tips.
Lisa
@Penflame; Thanks love the comments!
@arafatboni; Much thanks for you taking the time to comment; a man's comment is much appreciated!
@LauraGT; Lucky!! I do not know that; however, they say that your cramps do have some kind of indication how intense your labor can be. I would assume that the kinder you are to your body it will in return be more kinder in child birth. My son was a breeze in a sense; I was induce which intensified the labor pains; but I was fit and ate healthy and active labor was about 20 minutes! That is awesome.
@Lisas-thoughts101
Aleve rocks for sure; however, there is a knock off brand of menstrual pain med that has worked wonders for me. Thanks so much for the comment, take care.
Thanks for the info - good to learn more about the benefits of chocolate! I had particularly bad pain once after macaroni cheese, so I go easy on cheese around this time now.
Hi Jasmith1
Oh yea dairy can be a real pain, no pun intended! Thanks for reading and take care, oh and grab some chocolate!
I just came across this article...if you think you have it bad...I had to have codeine and a friend of mine Morphine...
I got on the depo-provena injection to stop the period. I didn't even have a boyfriend at the time, so this was not birth control, this was pain avoidance.
I took depo twice at three month intervals, didn't get my period for a year, it came once to remind me how much I hate it, and I took two more shots three months apart which stopped it for another year.
I stopped taking it, had my child, and was back on it after the first miserable period.
qeyler-
Hi there, yea that sounds like torture for sure. I have heard about the shot, it would be nice to not have one at all for sure.
Hormone birth control and me do not mix; I grow snakes for hair and turn anyone who looks my way to stone when I take them....So I suffer through it for humanities sake. Thanks for telling your story as I hope it helps those who read the comments here, Take care!
Great Hub. I was not aware of Flaxseeds use for easing menstrual cramps. A home remedy that I was given to get rid of the pain was soaking Sesame seeds(black) in water overnight and drinking it next morning.It was very bitter but very effective.
Thanks snigdha.s!
I did not know that about the sesame seeds, very cool. I am going to try that for sure; thanks for sharing that!
just want to comment on great hub ,
Thank you for this hub, this will be a lifesaver..
Thanks for the hub. Never knew flax could be helpful. I'm going to try it.
Awesome hub. I loved that information..it will help!
Thanks ladies! your comments mean so much, I appreciate you taking the time to do so. I hope the info does help, especially the flaxseed, it also helps those pesky breakouts during that time of the month as well.
How about those transgender, are they experiencing cramps too? Lol! Anyway you have a great interesting hub here. I may not be as active as you but I have the eye for good hubs. Thumbs up!
Ha, no I presume since they don't have the innards they don't get to join in on the pain, as of yet. Thanks so much for catching my hub; that is a huge compliment in my book; really appreciate you taking the time to read and comment. Take care.
Fantastic article! Very well researched and extremely informative, thank you for posting it.
Awesome article, thank you for sharing!
Thanks ladies! I am so happy that it brought some relief and hope it helps in the future! take care.
Great Hub!!!!
Thanks MsLofton! Glad you enjoyed.
Very detailed and captivating! I can see you have what it takes to write a book. Great hub!
Thanks nice info
Wow! Thanks cottageindustry, such a nice compliment. I dream of that goal being reachable someday!
Thanks mj2991! Appreciate the comments!
Thank you Danareva,A new approach to an age-old dilemma. Nice hub!!
Thanks! rated up.
Thank you JYOTI! Always appreciate a man's contribution for the hub take care!
@anivardiashvili-
um you are on jenubouka's page; although I do appreciate you reading and making such a kind comment.
very interesting...
Thanks jacobkuttyta!
Hey there, here i got another tip for you girls i've worked my way around in the kitchen and i know that parsley is also very good!
Ah! That is so sweet that you mentioned parsley. You rock leclochard! Thank you; in fact, the entire women race should thank you for taking the time to let us know!
Also lentils are a really good source of magnesium that can help steady your mood swings before your period.
Outside of all that, it is when I discovered my allergies to wheat, dairy and soy that my cramps almost disappeared.
I am a woman, at least I've got a very valuable information .Thanks
Great info! I have flax seed in the kitchen, which I have gotten away from baking with. Maybe I'll go back to using it more.
Eating sesame seeds is another great one as it contains magnesium. I use it alot in my cooking and in salads and ive definitely noticed the difference.
Awesome comments! Great advise as well, Thank you for reading!
Good and informative one. I feel proud to follow you.
im going to try the flax seed's does it work for any age
The title of your hub really caught my attention! Honestly, I am having trouble when I have my menstrual period. Every time I have menstrual cramps, I just eat chocolate. I crave for chocolates and it really helps and now, I know other foods that could help ease the pain during menstrual cramps. Thank you for sharing! Voted Up!
Thank you for sharing these tips. These tips are really helpful. I will practice these tips.
I'll try out these recipes, too. Unfortunately, I can't eat chocolate and I always have an urge for it before or during the period :( Another useful tip - sage tea is extremely helpful in easing (pre)menstrual pain.
This is very useful and helpful. Thank you. My symptoms are severe as well the first two days. Thanks for the remedies. I find that a cup of tea and a heating pad works somewhat. Thanks for these remedies.
Wonderful tips!!! VERY helpful. All women can definitely benefit from reading your hub.
Such wonderful comments; awesome advise and tips.
Readers: Be sure to read the comments and visit these amazing hub author's profile! They rock.
great write
Very useful! I heard that when we crave chocolate, we really need magnesium and should eat greens... Though as much as I like greens, they just don't compare. :) Great hub.
This hub and all the comments have been a life safer! Thank you everyone! I have always suffered greatly from cramps and have developed some techniques but I am going to add in a few more of these. Thanks for writing this! Voting up and useful!
So glad you got some good tips and thank you for commenting. Take care yoginijoy..Let me know what works for you!
I'm not sure what it was that brought me here since I am single, and no significant other what-so-ever, but I definitely feel the need to share this with my Facebook friends! :)
Great Hub and info... Thank you!
That is so awesome of you Kevin, well someday you will make a fine mate, just remember dark chocolate and you will be fine, take care.
@mecheshier- Thanks!
Some interesting information in this post, had no idea that diet would have such a large impact on how you feel (physically and mentally). I had always just associated food with energy and basic nutrition. Unfortunately my girlfriend doesn't like dark chocolate, but I do, so i'll have to eat some to release some endorphins and get some anti-oxidants. Thanks!
Thanks Spitfire07!
Diet and exercise is huge for a woman and her monthly for sure, bummer about the chocolate. The flaxseed will work great too, she can take a Tablespoon in the morning or put it in a sugar-free smoothie; it also helps break-outs that we get during that time too. You rock for reading! Take care
Oh my goodness. I appreciate this article so much. My daughter has the toughest time on her cycle but now I know what foods she needs. thank you
Thank you for your kind words RJ68, hope it helps!
Nurfninja Level 3 Commenter 6 months ago
the title brought me here although I am a man.