One of the best wat ways to treat PMS symptoms is by having a healthy diet which is good for your body and overall health. Eating well not only benefits your physical health but it also improves your emotional and mental well-being. It is normal to feel more hungry than usual when you are on period. However, using this as an excuse to eat everything you can lay your hands on is counter-intuitive as you will eat the wrong foods. However, if you’re having a craving that you can’t control, it is okay to have a controlled portion of what you desire.
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“When your period comes, you want nothing more than to indulge in sugar and carbs, but the good news is that there are healthier and effective ways to deal with PMS. Eating and exercising can control the irritability, depression and mood swings” says pharmacist and diet pioneer who founded The Diet Everyone Talks About, Gert Coetzee.
Below are 5 tips to help you reduce PMS symptoms in a healthy way:
1. Reduce your salt intake: Eating less salt is recommended for people experiencing breast tenderness and bloating. Rather cook your own food instead of eating processed food or takeaways and replace salt with herbs when you cook.
SEE ALSO: 5 tips for exercising while on your period
2. Eat avocados: Make sure that you eat avocados if your PMS symptoms include muscle cramps, cravings and bloating. Avocados contain potassium which helps protect against muscle cramps.
3. Drink water: It is advisable to drink a lot of water as it helps reduce bloating. Drinking water is a good idea if dehydration is one of the symptoms that one experiences when they have PMS. Substitute alcohol, sugary drinks and caffeine with water as this is also good for your overall health.
SEE ALSO: 7 ways to manage the triggers of PMS
4. Include fruits, vegetables and whole grains: Incorporate fiber-packed fruits and vegetables with whole-grains such as oatmeal, rye bread and brown rice. These foods are rich in minerals and vitamins that can help reduce PMS symptoms.
5. Don’t consume excessive sugar: Craving for sugar is common when you are experiencing PMS. Whilst a little is okay; excess intake of sugar can result in hormonal imbalance.