The side effects that come with menstruation--bloating, digestion issues, lower back pain, and more--can be relieved with these time-tested natural methods.
Menstrual health is a critical component of female well-being, and, in social vernacular, an important part of female empowerment. While philosophical aspects of femininity are shared, debated, and celebrated, the reality of menses can still be challenging for many of us. Bloating, lower back pain, water retention, loose bowels, digestion issues, breakouts, and mood swings are just a few of the symptoms millions of women experience each month with their menstrual flow.
Today, there are numerous tools at our disposal to help manage this time of the month. We have period-tracking applications, flexible menstrual cups to avoid messing with pads or tampons, and period-proof undies. There's even a monthly service that delivers menstrual supplies, complete with organic treats and confections to lavish upon oneself during lady time. Whoopi Goldberg has launched a line of marijuana products aimed at those who suffer cramps. On top of these modern developments, there are also time-tested natural solutions for period pain and many of the other discomforts we weather every 21 to 28 days.
Here are some natural remedies to make your periods more manageable.
- Eat right. A little dark chocolate doesn't hurt, and can actually help with stress reduction. But sugary drinks and treats can alter our hormones and stress levels, impacting us negatively and increasing our risk for breast cancer, diabetes, and other illnesses later in life. Junk food can also impact mood, so it's best to minimize in that area. According to Janet Zand, O.M.D., "Vegetables rich in magnesium and chlorophyll--dense greens--can help reduce inflammation and should be eaten often, but especially the week prior to your period. You could also take a magnesium supplement, for the same result."
- Herbs can help. Chamomile has been shown to alleviate cramping symptoms; a strong tea can be helpful in easing cramps and soothing the mood. Ginger has been shown to be just as beneficial, if not more so, because it has other healing properties, such as benefiting digestion, boosting the immune system, and easing nausea. "Combine ginger and chamomile for a soothing, delicious tea that can help ease cramps and discomfort. Each woman will react differently, of course, so you must find what works for you," says Zand.