Processed food, excess caffeine and long hunger gaps can worsen period discomfort, says lifestyle article
Salty packaged snacks, too much tea or coffee and going hungry for hours can add to period pain and stomach trouble, the article says.
Many women suffer severe pain in the lower abdomen during menstruation. Back pain, stomach ache, vomiting, nausea and cramps tend to increase. The information is based on a general lifestyle article that makes no claim of any treatment.
According to the article, chemicals called prostaglandins are produced as the lining of the uterus is shed. They make the muscles of the uterus contract, causing sharp abdominal pain, fatigue and weakness.
Poor everyday eating habits, mental stress and nutrient deficiencies show their effect on the body quickly. Bloating, fatigue, digestive problems and restlessness make periods harder still. Even seemingly minor complaints should therefore not be ignored, and proper treatment on a doctor's advice is essential.
The first item is processed food. Wafers, instant noodles and packaged snacks are popular with children and adults alike, but they contain sodium. According to the article, eating them increases restlessness and harms health. Instead of cutting out salt entirely, it suggests eating fresh vegetables, fruit, grains and pulses. Lemon and spices can be used for flavour.
The second is excess caffeine. For those in the habit of drinking tea or coffee from morning until bedtime, the article says the caffeine in them aggravates period pain. Too much caffeine can cause poor sleep, acidity, a racing heartbeat and chest pain. It suggests water, herbal tea or lemon water instead of tea and coffee, and says this also eases indigestion and constipation.
The third is going hungry for hours. Stomach pain takes away the appetite, but the article says that instead of fasting, it would be beneficial to eat foods rich in protein and complex carbohydrates, such as pulses, beans, sprouted grains, tofu, paneer, curd, dry fruits, seeds and eggs. A fall in blood sugar can cause dizziness, irritability, fatigue and weakness, so regular, balanced meals are described as essential.
The article states at the end that it is for general information only and makes no claim of any treatment. Readers are advised to consult their doctor before trying any remedy.
