Foods Women with Menstrual Cramps Should Avoid
Many women suffer from the torment of menstrual cramps. Some patients are unable to work or study normally during their period, which affects their daily lives. An improper diet during menstruation can also exacerbate the pain of cramps. Some patients may know this but can't resist the temptation. Below, let's discuss the foods that women with menstrual cramps should avoid.
1. Strong Tea and Persimmons--
Hinders Iron Absorption
Tea contains tannic acid, which has a strong affinity for iron ions, significantly hindering the body's absorption of iron. This is not a good thing during menstruation. Persimmons are the same, as their tannic acid content is no less than that in tea.
2. Caffeinated Drinks--
Stimulates the Nervous System, Worsening Pain
Containing caffeine, these can stimulate the nerves and cardiovascular system, making you tense and increasing pain, or leading to excessive menstrual flow. Drinks like coffee, cola, and tea should be avoided or consumed in moderation during your period. Warm plain water is the safest and most comfortable choice.
3. Carbonated Drinks--
Affects Nutrient Intake, Lowers Body Resistance
Some carbonated drinks contain phosphates, which also hinder iron absorption. When sodium bicarbonate encounters stomach acid, a neutralization reaction occurs. Menstruation often comes with a poor appetite. If this affects the intake of dietary nutrients and weakens resistance, menstrual cramps can become more severe.
4. Beer and Excessive Spirits--
Alcohol is incompatible with B vitamins. A deficiency in B vitamins can seriously affect the body's overall condition during menstruation. Wine, being pungent, sweet, and warm in nature, can dispel cold, dampness, invigorate blood, and promote menstruation, so it can be consumed in moderation.
5. Cheese-based Desserts--
Cheese, butter, cream, and other sweet dairy products can affect the body's absorption of magnesium. Menstrual cramps are also related to a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium activates various enzymes in the body and inhibits nerve excitement; a magnesium deficiency can directly lead to emotional tension.
6. Cold-natured Seafood--Cold-natured Foods
Crabs and shellfish in seafood are all cold-natured foods. If you naturally have a cold constitution, be sure not to eat these seafoods during your period to avoid worsening menstrual pain.
The foods listed above can all worsen menstrual pain. Therefore, women with menstrual cramps must resist temptation and stay away from these foods during their period. If your period is particularly difficult to endure, you can rely on some traditional Chinese medicine or dietary therapy to relieve the pain.