There are only a few lucky women who do not suffer from PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). However, for the other lot, who suffer from at least one symptom of PMS often wonder if there is a way to relieve this stress during that time of the month. You will be glad to know, that there are indeed a number of ways to make your self feel better during ‘that time of the month’.
Mood swings, stomach and leg cramps, bloating, craving for certain foods and a number of other symptoms can get you down when you reach that date in a month. For some women the symptoms last just for a day, while for other it takes a day or two or maybe more to subside. But if you fall into the bracket, where the attacks of mood swings are more often than not, you should know that you are not the only one who is affected, but it is your loved ones too. You will notice that your husband does not want to be around you and leaves for office earlier than usual. Your children may want to get as far away from you as possible because you have turned into an irritable mom from one who is loving and nurturing.
So, instead of moping around the house and worrying about your cravings take on a few healthy activities and eating habits during this time that will indeed help you feel better and be a better person as well.
A lot of women crave for something sweet, when you are not suffering from PMS, you may have the will power to resist sweet treats, but come those days and you are gobbling up cookies, cakes and ice creams like there is no tomorrow.
However, if you are looking for someone to blame, you can blame the spikes in estrogen levels in your body during the time of your menstrual cycle. The rise and fall of this particular hormone leads to release of cortisol that is a stress hormone. When this hormone takes charge, one’s appetite automatically increases. Women during this time are attracted to carbs and foods that are rich in serotonin rich foods that help make one feel less stressed and happy.
So, how can you fight these irresistible craving. The best way of doing so, is by knowing what is right for your body. You may think that giving into your cravings and satiating your hunger by eating lost of chocolate and foods that are rich in carbohydrates is the only way out, but in fact it is the worst. You have to consider your lifestyle habits and your nutrition intake to figure out a way of beating these cravings in the long term. If PMS cravings is your only issue, and bloating really gets you down, read on to learn how you can fight these cravings in the most healthy way possible.
Carbohydrates Plus: Foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates help fight the grumpy attacks that you get during PMS. Foods like pasta, whole wheat bread and cereals can help. If you eat a bagel made from whole grain flour, baked potatoes or low sugar cereals, these can help increase your serotonin levels within an hour.
Water Wonder: Dehydration is often a common problem during PMS and when you are dehydrated your body will seem to bloat. You can keep this in check by having at least 8 – 10 glasses of water in a day.
Avoid Sugar: Try and avoid foods that are made using processed sugar as these only increase the secretion of insulin in your body leading to higher cravings for carbs and fats.
Avoid sodium rich foods: Try and avoid too much salt in your food during that time of the month. A diet that is low in sodium will help prevent water retention and you can keep bloating at bay.
Essential Fatty Acids: Foods containing essential fatty acids are great for your body during this time. Safflower, salmon, canola oil mayo help in absorbing carbs, they help stabilize blood sugar levels and also play a very important role in fighting cravings that so badly pull you down during PMS.
Say no to cola and Caffeine: Though this should be something you should avoid all year long, avoid caffeine and cola when you are experiencing PMS helps you feel less irritable.
Sleep: Sleep deprivation can also make you very irritable during this time. Try and get at least eight hours of sleep so that you can fight symptoms of PMS.
If you are indeed having issues during that time of the month, it would help if you consult a holistic nutritionist who can advice you on the right diet and lifestyle after studying what your current lifestyle and nutrition intake is so that you feel better and are able to fight the symptoms of PMS effectively.
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