No matter how many months and years it has been since you started menstruating, the pain is a constant companion. And so are painkillers and your trusted heating pads. But there’s a limit to how much you can hug your hot water bag and pop that pain pill. Here are a few foods and drinks that can ease your menstrual cramps.

Related: 9 Tips For Period Pain That Will Make Your Menstrual Cycle So Much Easier

1. Chamomile tea

Caffeine-free teas are the best bet to beat period cramps. Chamomile tea is a beverage that will calm you down and ease menstrual cramps. The anti-spasmodic properties of chamomile tea can relieve period pain and help modulate dopamine and serotonin in the body. So, apart from pain relief, chamomile tea also helps you deal with the mood swings that come with PMS.

2. Ginger tea

The anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help with pain and bloating. You can either consume it by adding it to a non-caffeinated tea or add some ginger to water, boil it, and drink it throughout the day. Chewing on raw ginger can also help ease menstrual cramps and helps lower the inflammation in the body.

3. Peppermint tea

Peppermint has muscle relaxant properties that provide relief from period cramps. The menthol in peppermint will keep you refreshed and enhance your mood as well. Peppermint soothes the muscles in the body, which is why it is one of the best choices to reduce menstrual cramps. It also helps with bloating, diarrhoea, and headaches that accompany menstrual cramps.

4. Turmeric milk

There is a reason turmeric milk is a nuskha that every desi mother swears by. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help relieve cramps, mood swings, and discomfort caused during periods. While milk in itself might worsen your cramps, adding a pinch of turmeric to milk can turn into a lifesaver. If you don’t want to drink milk, add a pinch of turmeric, or a slice of fresh turmeric to boiling water.

5. Oranges

Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are the top food to ease period cramps. Oranges contain vitamin C, vitamin D, magnesium, and potassium which make them a healthy food to add to your diet. So, having a couple of oranges daily can give you relief from menstrual cramps.

6. Bananas

Bananas are another superfood to lower your period cramps. Bananas are rich in potassium, fibre, and vitamin B6, all of which relieve bloating and cramping. Bananas aid in easy bowel movement as well which significantly reduces bloating caused by menstruation. They are a great food item to ease your menstrual cramps.

7. Leafy greens

When your parents forced you to eat your greens, they knew what they were talking about. Leafy greens aren’t just beneficial for your overall health, but also to alleviate menstrual cramps. Leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli are generally rich in calcium and magnesium which aid in relieving cramps. Another reason to add leafy greens to your diet during periods is that you might experience a dip in iron levels and these can help with replenishing iron in the body.

8. Dark chocolate

While sugary candies are a total no-no during periods, dark chocolate with at least 80 percent cocoa can help relieve cramps. Dark chocolate has a higher amount of healthy cocoa bean which means it is high in magnesium, potassium, and iron. These act as muscle relaxants and also boost your mood. Because dark chocolate is not high in sugar, it is a healthy item to eat during your periods.

While all of these foods and drinks can help alleviate any pain you feel during your period, the best drink is definitely water. Because you lose a lot of blood during your period, your body can get dehydrated. So, drinking lots of water can help with dehydration, which can further help with bloating, gas, and cramps. The best thing you can do during your period is rest and eat healthy food that will make your body feel better.

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