Poor lifestyle habits have made menstrual cramps a modern ailment for women. Some mistakenly believe the discomfort will pass after their period ends, unaware that neglecting it can worsen symptoms and even lead to gynecological issues. To avoid menstrual pain, women should establish a healthy lifestyle plan and modify unhealthy habits.
So, what should women with menstrual cramps do?
1. Avoid diuretics
Many women believe diuretics reduce menstrual bloating and discomfort. However, diuretics flush out essential minerals along with fluids. Instead, reduce intake of substances like salt and alcohol that cause water retention.
2.Stay warm
Keeping warm accelerates blood circulation and relaxes muscles, especially in the cramped and congested pelvic area. Drink plenty of hot water, apply a heating pad or hot water bottle to the abdomen for several minutes at a time, or use moxibustion on the lower abdomen.
3. Take a mineral bath
Add 1 cup of salt and 1 cup of baking soda to the bathtub.Soak in warm water for 20 minutes to help relax muscles and ease menstrual cramps.
4. Exercise
Especially before your period starts, walking or other moderate exercise can make you feel more comfortable during menstruation.
5. Practice Yoga Poses
Yoga also has a soothing effect. Try kneeling with knees bent, sitting back on your heels.Keep your forehead on the floor and arms straight alongside your body. Hold this position until discomfort arises. 6. Take Pain Relief Medication When cramps begin, take pain medication with milk or food. Effective pain relievers take effect within 20-30 minutes and provide up to 12 hours of pain relief.
What foods should be avoided during menstrual cramps?
1. Cold and raw foods:
Some women consume cold beverages and raw foods during menstruation, which can lead to stagnation of qi and blood. As traditional Chinese medicine states: "Where there is no flow, there is pain." This naturally exacerbates menstrual cramps. Therefore, besides staying warm during menstruation, avoid cold and raw foods.Foods that may worsen menstrual pain include: various cold beverages, mung beans, winter melon, cucumber, bamboo shoots, lotus root, kelp, and loofah.
Additionally, foods like pears, bananas, water chestnuts, stone fungus, stone flowers, and wood ear mushrooms generally possess properties that clear heat, detoxify, nourish yin, and reduce fire. While beneficial for overall health when consumed regularly, these foods should be avoided or minimized during menstruation to prevent symptoms like dysmenorrhea and irregular periods.
2. Spicy Foods:
For those with dysmenorrhea, meals 3-5 days before menstruation should focus on light, easily digestible foods. Avoid greasy items like fatty meats, animal fats, fish roe, and cheese to prevent indigestion and added abdominal strain. Spicy and irritating foods should also be avoided, as chili peppers, raw onions, raw garlic, pepper, and strong alcohol can stimulate the uterus and disrupt normal menstrual flow.
Examples include cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, cloves, and black pepper. While these spices enhance flavor when used sparingly in cooking, they should be avoided during menstruation as they may trigger dysmenorrhea or excessive menstrual flow.
3. Astringent Foods:
Acidic foods possess a sour, cold nature with astringent properties. Excessive consumption may constrict blood vessels and impede blood flow, hindering the smooth passage and expulsion of menstrual blood. Women experiencing menstrual cramps should especially avoid these foods during their period.Hawthorn, bayberries, preserved plums, vinegar, citrus fruits, apricots, and unripe sour fruits should be avoided during menstruation.