Essential Nutrients To Eat To Counter Menstrual Cramps

Table of Contents

By Dietician Avni Kaul — Gold Medalist, M.Sc. Food & Nutrition, Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi | Founder, Nutri Activania

Reality is periods are no fun at all. For certain women, it is quite simple to pass those five days with hardly any symptoms, while some struggle to carry out their normal routine due to cramps, headache and other symptoms.

Several women take pills and try various home remedies for relief, but Nutritionist Avni Kaul says there is another easy way to deal with the uncomfortable menstrual pain.

You need to make minor alterations to your diet. Besides sufficient intake of water, having some nutrients in your diet can also assist you to get relief from the cramps and pain during the menstrual cycle.

Today, Top Nutritionist and Dietician Avni Kaul talks about the essential nutrients to eat to counter menstrual cramps.

Iron

Heavy blood flow can lead to a deficiency of iron or anemia, which can make you feel fogginess, mood swings, and weakness. Iron-deficiency anemia is very common among women belonging to the menstrual age groups and to remain healthy, it is important to increase the iron intake. Add healthy food high in iron like beans, spinach greens, nuts and sunflower seeds in your diet.

Fibre

Besides cramps and headaches, feeling bloated is one common symptom during menstruation. This can make you feel uncomfortable and turn you irritated. To avoid this situation, eat plenty of fiber throughout your cycle to ensure regularity in your bowel movement. Apples, beans, oats, whole wheat are good sources of fibre.

Magnesium

Magnesium assists in reducing anxiety, sleep problems, headaches and are quite effective in lowering symptoms of menstrual cramps. This nutrient eases the uterine muscles, which is responsible for the cramps. This is another point why most women crave chocolate during their cycles because of its high magnesium content. Have cashews, soybeans, bananas, flax seeds and almonds to get magnesium.

Calcium

Do remember to increase the consumption of calcium during your period. This nutrient can reduce menstrual cramps, bloating and water retention in your body. Try to consume dairy products like milk, yogurt, and almonds for getting the proper calcium requirement.

Vitamin B

High sources of Vitamin B such as eggs, beans, legumes, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds are some food items you must include in your diet when bleeding. Proper intake of Vitamin B can lower all symptoms of a monthly cycle such as muscle pain, cramping, and fatigue.

Important Disclaimer & Medical Policy

This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical or dietary advice. Please consult Dietician Avni Kaul or a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or nutrition plan.

Picture of Avni Kaul: Dietician & Nutritionist in Delhi NCR

Avni Kaul: Dietician & Nutritionist in Delhi NCR

About the Author: Dietician Avni Kaul

Avni Kaul is a Gold Medalist nutritionist holding a Master's degree in Food and Nutrition from Lady Irwin College, University of Delhi. With 12+ years of clinical experience and 15,000+ clients, she is the founder of Nutri Activania — Delhi's leading dietician practice. She specialises in weight management, PCOS, thyroid disorders, diabetes, and pregnancy nutrition.

Nutrition Category
Popular Blogs
Top 10 Dieticians in Delhi to Consider
Finding the right dietician in Delhi can be difficult because there are many nutrition professionals...
Country Chicken Nutrition Facts per 100g: Calories, Protein, Fat and Health Benefits
Country chicken, also known as desi chicken, nattu kozhi, or village chicken, is a popular protein-rich...
Meal Plan for Vegetarians to Gain Weight: A Complete Guide
Meal Plan for Vegetarians to Gain Weight is often seen as harder than it actually is. The real challenge...
Best Millets for Weight Loss: Why This Traditional Grain Deserves a Comeback
Millets are among the best grains for weight loss, offering considerably more fibre and a lower glycaemic...
Are Oats Good for Weight Loss? What the Evidence Actually Supports
Yes, oats are good for weight loss, largely due to their high soluble fibre content, which supports fullness...
High-Fibre Foods for Weight Loss: The Quiet Driver Behind Fullness and Steady Energy
High-fibre foods for weight loss work by slowing digestion, supporting fullness for longer after meals,...
High-Protein Foods for Weight Loss: Why Protein Does More Than Just Build Muscle
High-protein foods for weight loss work by supporting fullness for longer after meals, preserving muscle...
Best Vegetables for Weight Loss: The Foods That Do the Most Work on Your Plate
The best vegetables for weight loss are typically those low in calories but high in fibre and water content,...
Best Fruits for Weight Loss: What to Eat, What to Watch, and How Much
The best fruits for weight loss are generally those that offer high fibre and water content relative...
Weight Loss Diet for Hypothyroidism: Working With a Slower Metabolism, Not Against It
A weight loss diet for hypothyroidism is a nutrition plan built around the slower metabolism and related...
Download Your Expert Nutrition & Wellness Guide PDF

Transform Your Health with Dietician Avni Kaul

Join 500+ Delhi clients” + 5‑star reviews & 15,000+ Happy Members and growing

Get a Free 30-Minute Consultation

Join 500+ Delhi clients” + 5‑star reviews