Solving Menstrual Cycle Problems – Natural Remedies
Many women suffer from needless pain or discomfort during their monthly menstrual cycle. These problems include serious pain, fatigue, headaches, bloating, and breast swelling. Some also deal with mood disturbances including anger, anxiety, and depression. These symptoms usually occur just before the start of menstruation and are collectively called PMS (pre-menstrual syndrome). Pain and heavy bleeding are also common problems that occur during menstruation.
If you experience any form of discomfort with your monthly menstrual cycles, this issue of Sunshine Sharing is for you. It will help you discover natural remedies and solutions for many of these problems. In it, you will learn various nutrients, herbs, and lifestyle changes that can help you experience a healthy, symptom-free cycle.
Some of the Common Issues Associated with your Menstrual Cycle
The issues below are covered in this month’s Sunshine Sharing to help you with natural tips and remedies.
- Dysmenorrhea or painful periods references mild discomfort before or during menstruation.
- Cramping pain is caused by spasms.
- Dull Pain
- Menorrhagia (heavy bleeding) has many potential causes. It is often associated with hormone imbalances and could lead to anemia or other issues that may require medical assistance. There are many herbs used f
- Mood Swings include anger, anxiety, sadness, and/or depression.
- Irregular menstrual cycles refer to those that do not follow the 28-day cycle, shifting from longer to shorter periods.
- Food Cravings because your blood sugar levels tend to fall. Most people crave chocolate or carbohydrates. Chromium and Omega-3 fatty acids may be helpful for sugar cravings.
- Water retention is a common issue and is usually related to a hormone produced by the adrenal glands.
- Skin Problems include excessive outbreaks and acne.
There are also more related problems than those above.
Lifestyle Changes to Help
Maintain a healthy diet. It’s tempting, especially with those cravings to eat salty or sweet foods. However, avoiding salt and sugar can help with fluid retention, bloating, and breast swelling, so eat less of both. You also may want to eat some bananas or potassium rich foods to further help with fluid retention.
It’s important to keep your focus on eating fruits, veggies, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean meats. Avoid white flour and sugar. A study shows that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D may reduce your risk for PMS.
Make sure you get enough sleep. I have often talked about creating a sleep routine and if you have one, try to maintain it. Turn off those electronics at least 30 minutes before bed time!
Also, your body is going through hormonal changes, and managing stress can be especially difficult at this time. Focus on pausing and taking a deep breath. You also may want to reduce your caffeine intake since caffeine can also activate the stress response. Consider supplementing and supporting your body’s stress response with ashwagandha or b-complex vitamins.
If you need assistance with lifestyle changes, consider joining our Healthy Living Program.