What to Avoid: 4 Foods and 3 Activities to Skip During Menstruation

Menstruation is a time when women need to be especially mindful of their health. The body's resistance is lower, and hormone levels fluctuate, making it essential to take extra care with diet and activities. Failing to do so can lead to discomfort or even health problems. Here are four foods to avoid and three activities to minimize during menstruation.

Four Foods to Avoid During Menstruation

1. Cold Drinks

Drinking cold beverages during menstruation can have adverse effects on the body. Cold drinks cause blood vessels in the pelvic area to constrict, which impedes blood flow and can worsen menstrual cramps. Poor circulation can lead to irregular periods and more intense uterine contractions. Over time, regularly consuming cold drinks during menstruation may also contribute to conditions like cold in the uterus, which can impact fertility.

2. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can stimulate the blood vessels in the pelvic area to contract, which can interfere with the normal flow of menstrual blood. Additionally, they irritate the digestive system, which is more sensitive during menstruation. Women may experience indigestion, bloating, and stomach pain after eating spicy foods, making the period more uncomfortable.

3. Fried Foods

Fried foods are high in fat and difficult for the body to digest, especially during menstruation when digestive efficiency decreases. Eating fried foods can lead to indigestion, nausea, and even vomiting. The high-calorie content of these foods may also result in weight gain, putting extra strain on the body during an already vulnerable time.

4. High-Sugar Foods

Consuming too many sugary foods can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate, which affects mood and energy levels. Women may feel more irritable, anxious, or fatigued when their blood sugar is unstable. High sugar intake can also interfere with hormonal balance, worsening symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) like breast tenderness and headaches.

Three Activities to Minimize During Menstruation

1. Intense Exercise

While moderate exercise can help relieve menstrual symptoms, intense physical activity should be avoided during menstruation. The shedding and repair of the endometrium make the body more vulnerable, and vigorous exercise can increase menstrual flow. High-intensity workouts can also cause the uterus to vibrate, increasing the risk of developing conditions like endometriosis, which can cause severe pain and affect fertility.

2. Staying Up Late

Getting enough sleep is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance, especially during menstruation. Staying up late can disrupt the endocrine system, which may lead to irregular periods or excessive menstrual flow. Lack of sleep also weakens the immune system, making women more susceptible to infections and slowing recovery from menstrual symptoms.

3. Taking Baths

During menstruation, the cervix opens slightly to allow the discharge of menstrual blood. Taking baths during this time can introduce bacteria and pathogens into the uterus, increasing the risk of infections like vaginitis, cervicitis, and endometritis. These infections can cause discomfort and long-term complications if not treated properly. To avoid this risk, it’s best to opt for showers instead.

Final Thoughts

During menstruation, paying attention to your diet and lifestyle is essential for maintaining comfort and overall health. Avoiding cold drinks, spicy and fried foods, and excessive sugar can help minimize discomfort. Similarly, limiting intense exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, and avoiding baths can reduce the risk of complications.

If you have chronic gynecological conditions like endometriosis or cervicitis, consider using herbal remedies such as Fuyan Pill, which has a long history of effectively treating gynecological inflammations. However, it's important to avoid taking this pill during menstruation.