Getting Rid of Menstrual Cramps

When most people think of relieving menstrual cramps, they think of taking a pain reliever, not of changing their diet. But there are many foods out there that can help lessen the pain of menstrual cramps, or even do away with them all together.

Bananas

Bananas are rich in B6, which can really help give you less painful cramps. Try having a banana over your cereal each morning throughout the month to help keep your body's pyridoxine level high, and try eating a few extra ones when your period comes. They should really help alleviate symptoms.

Pineapple

Pineapple contains bromelaine, a natural muscle relaxer. Eating some pineapple or drinking pineapple juice can have the same effects as taking an over the counter drug- but it's much better for your body.

Ginger

Not only is ginger an anti-inflammatory, but it also helps to block prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is the hormone that's released that causes painful cramping. Try sipping on ginger ale or a ginger tea all day to keep the cramps at bay.

Skim Milk

Milk is rich in calcium, which naturally helps to reduce cramps. Just 1 cup of skim milk contains a whopping 300mg of calcium, making it the perfect drink choice.

Dried Watermelon Seeds

Watermelon seeds are an easy snack and full of zinc. Studies have shown that if you make sure you get plenty of zinc starting about 4 days before your period occurs, you may be able to avoid getting cramps altogether. Snacking will also help stave off cramps- you should feel better as long as you can keep a full stomach.

Chocolate

Zinc rich chocolate is full of health benefits, and relieving cramps is one of them. Dark chocolate or cocoa is an especially smart choice. Since it contains zinc, it's better to start loading up on chocolate a few days before your period starts. Yum!

Salmon

Salmon is full of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are extremely nutritious. Omega-3 works as a natural anti-inflammatory and also helps to block the production of prostaglandins that are thought to cause cramping. Other fish high in Omega-3 are mackerel, trout, herring, sardines, and albacore tuna.


Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter is a great source of Vitamin E. Studies have shown that Vitamin E can help to reduce period cramps, and can also relieve pain after your period has started. If you have to stay away from peanuts, another great source of Vitamin E is sunflower seeds.

Chicken

Chicken contains niacin, better known as B3. B3 has been used as a way to treat menstrual cramps since the 1950's. If you're a vegetarian, try getting your B3 dosage from lima beans or a bowl of Cheerios.