If you’re one of the unfortunate ones to experience PMS (or premenstrual syndrome) and wish to stay in bed all day, then this post is for you.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of symptoms linked to the menstrual cycle occurring 1 to 2 weeks before your period starts.
The cause of PMS is still not totally clear, but may be linked to hormonal changes, vitamin and mineral deficiency, too much salt in your diet, or consumption of alcohol and caffeine.
Symptoms of PMS can include:
- Acne
- Swollen or tender breasts
- Feeling tired
- Trouble sleeping
- Upset stomach, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
- Headache or backache
- Appetite changes or food cravings
- Joint or muscle pain
- Trouble with concentration or memory
- Tension, irritability, mood swings, or crying spells
- Anxiety or depression
The symptoms usually go away after your period starts and they will vary from woman to woman.
Until you can get down to your personal cause of PMS, here are 10 superfoods that may help ease your symptoms:
1. Cucumber
Cucumbers can specifically assist with the acne part of PMS. They are known to act as great detoxifiers for the body. If you think about it acne can be a result of a build up of toxins. Consuming cucumbers can flush those toxins right out of you. Eat them raw, alone or in a salad, or juice them.
2. Kelp
Kelp, categorized as a sea vegetable, contains calcium and magnesium, which may help relieve PMS symptoms such as bloating, insomnia, leg swelling, weight gain, and breast tenderness.
3. Kale
Kale is packed with lots of nutrients. It possesses anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve the muscle or joint pain experienced during PMS. It also contains folate, calcium, magnesium, vitamin E, and vitamin B6 – all of which are recommended alternative therapies to help relieve some PMS symptoms.
4. Cabbage
Also a source of calcium, cabbage is another food offering anti-inflammatory and detoxification properties. It is also an excellent source of vitamin B6, manganese, and folate.
5. Pineapple
Pineapples contain manganese, which could relieve the mood swings associated with PMS. In addition, pineapples may relieve menstrual cramping as they also contain an enzyme called bromelain which could help with muscle relaxation.
6. Watermelon
Watermelon is approximately 91 percent water. So, because of the high water content watermelon acts like a diuretic helping your body eliminate excess fluids and reduce bloating.
7. Figs
Figs are one of the few fruits that are richest in fiber. Increasing your fiber intake will help you with any constipation symptoms you may experience.
8. Lemons
The juice of a lemon can be squeezed into a glass of water to help the body eliminate toxins. Not only do lemons possess anti-inflammatory benefits, they are also a good source of folate.
9. Apples
Apples contain pectin (fiber) for your relief against constipation. Leave the skin on for even more fiber!
10. Cherries
If you’re having trouble sleeping, cherries may help. Cherries possess anti-inflammatory properties that may stimulate the production of cytokines, a type of immune-system molecule that helps regulate sleep. Tart cherries are also high in melatonin, a hormone that signals the body to go to sleep and stay that way.
Leave a Reply