Menstruation is a crucial time for women to take extra care of their health. During this period, the body’s resistance is lower, and hormone levels fluctuate, making it essential to be mindful of certain dietary choices and activities. Ignoring these can lead to discomfort or worsen existing health issues. Here are four foods and three activities women should avoid during menstruation.
Four Foods to Avoid During Menstruation
1. Cold Drinks
Cold drinks can negatively impact a woman's body during menstruation. They cause the blood vessels in the pelvic area to constrict, reducing blood flow to the uterus. This restricted circulation can lead to more intense menstrual cramps and hinder the flow of menstrual blood. Over time, regular consumption of cold drinks during menstruation can also lead to conditions like cold in the uterus, potentially affecting fertility.
2. Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can stimulate the blood vessels in the pelvic area, leading to reduced menstrual blood flow and increased cramping. They also irritate the digestive system, which is already more sensitive during menstruation. Women who eat spicy foods during this time may experience indigestion, bloating, or stomach pain, further worsening the discomfort.
3. Fried Foods
Fried foods are typically high in fat and difficult to digest, especially during menstruation when the digestive system is less efficient. Consuming these foods can cause nausea, indigestion, and even vomiting. Additionally, the high-calorie content of fried foods can contribute to weight gain, adding further stress to the body.
4. Sugary Foods
During menstruation, hormone levels fluctuate, and consuming excessive amounts of sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes. These fluctuations can affect mood, causing irritability, anxiety, and fatigue. Furthermore, high sugar intake can interfere with hormonal balance, worsening symptoms like breast tenderness and headaches associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Three Activities to Avoid During Menstruation
1. Intense Exercise
While light exercise can help alleviate menstrual symptoms, engaging in intense physical activities should be avoided during this time. The shedding and repair of the endometrium make the body more fragile. Intense exercise can increase blood circulation, leading to heavier menstrual flow. High-impact activities may also strain the uterus, potentially increasing the risk of conditions like endometriosis, which can cause long-term health complications.
2. Staying Up Late
Sleep is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance, especially during menstruation when the body is already under stress. Staying up late disrupts the body's natural circadian rhythm, leading to hormonal imbalances that can cause irregular periods or excessive menstrual flow. Lack of sleep also weakens the immune system, making women more susceptible to infections during this time.
3. Taking Baths
During menstruation, the cervix opens slightly to allow the discharge of menstrual blood. Taking baths during this time can introduce bacteria into the uterine cavity, increasing the risk of infections such as vaginitis, cervicitis, or endometritis. These infections can cause discomfort and, if untreated, may lead to long-term reproductive health issues. To avoid this risk, it’s better to opt for showers instead of baths.
Conclusion
During menstruation, women should prioritize their health by avoiding certain foods and activities. Steering clear of cold drinks, spicy and fried foods, and excessive sugar will help minimize discomfort, while limiting intense exercise, ensuring sufficient sleep, and opting for showers over baths can reduce the risk of complications. Additionally, for those suffering from chronic conditions like endometriosis or cervicitis, herbal remedies such as Fuyan Pill may be beneficial, though it’s important to avoid taking it during menstruation.
