Cycle Bloating
The Luteal Phase (1 – 2 weeks before your period) of your cycle can be quite uncomfortable and jarring. The unreasonable crying, oversensitivity, unexpected puffiness and the heavy mix of symptoms are a lot for any woman to carry.
One of the most common symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) are swelling and bloating. The hormonal shift we experience due to changes in the levels of estrogen and progesterone within our bodies either before or during a period, leads to water retention. This is what causes bloating.
Other causes of cycle bloating include; gut issues, stress, hormonal imbalances and lack of nutrients to support one’s cycle.
During this time, it’s important to
- nourish your body with hormone balancing nutrients
- Control the amount of salt you consume because it worsens water retention
- Reduce your sugar and carb intake as foods high in sugar require the pancreas to release a hormone called insulin, which can lead to water retention and bloating.
- Bananas
Focus on foods that contain potassium as they help reduce water retention by counteracting high levels of sodium in the body.
- Ginger
Eat a lot of anti-inflammatory foods such as ginger. Ginger is a powerful remedy when it comes to bloating and you can enjoy it in soups or tea.
- Peppermint
Peppermint contains menthol, which supports and improves digestion, making it one of the best foods for period bloating.
- Leafy Greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale contain folate, a B vitamin. Studies show that folate can positively impact increasing progesterone and decreasing anovulation, both are very important for hormone balancing to decrease bloating.
- Pineapple
Pineapples contain the enzyme bromelain which helps heal the gut by counteracting common pathogens in the intestinal tract. It also helps aid digestion. Good gut health helps support cycle health
- Cucumbers
Cucumbers have a lot of water in them. Water-rich fruits and veggies can help offset water retention from high sodium foods. When you nourish your body with water rich foods and fruits, the body won’t pull as much water out of your cells which leads to less bloating.