Irregular menstruation is a genuine problem that a majority of women across the globe face.
If period cycles are frequently deferred by more than a week after the expected date, this is known as oligomenorrhea, or irregular periods.
Dietary patterns have a substantial influence on the menstrual cycle and the individual quality of life of women.
Nowadays, the most prevalent nutritional issues among young women are low energy intake and inappropriate food selection as a result of dietary restrictions for cosmetic reasons, which can cause inadequate protein, carbohydrate, and essential fatty acid intake, as well as diet-related psychological stress.
Other factors that contribute to irregular periods besides dietary habits include obesity, excessive weight loss, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, polycystic ovary syndrome, perimenopause, prolactin, birth control pills, medications, and mental stress.
Some foods have been shown to help regulate the menstrual cycle and even relieve menstrual cramps, here’s a list of them:
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a widely known medicinal spice that is used to add texture and colour to a variety of cuisines. Turmeric, on the other hand, can have a major beneficial effect on irregular periods since it is a natural source of oestrogen, an essential hormone regulating menstruation. Turmeric is also an emmenagogue, meaning it can increase blood flow in the uterus and pelvic region. Turmeric’s antispasmodic and anti-oxidant properties help to relieve pain, malaise, and mood swings during heavy periods. It is recommended to consume boiled turmeric milk or turmeric latte on a daily basis for better flow.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon, in addition, to having antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and antimicrobial properties, facilitates the blood supply in your pelvis areas and produces adequate levels of oestrogen. It delivers immediate relief from dysmenorrhea or period cramps. To reap the greatest benefits, combine cinnamon with a glass of milk, as it helps in regularizing periods.
3. Papaya
The high percentage of carotene in papaya helps to normalise the menstrual cycle, making it one of the healthiest meals for monthly intervals. It boosts and maintains oestrogen balance in the bloodstream. Also, regular consumption of papaya aids in the healthy functioning of the uterus, which plays a vital role in menstruation, fertility and pregnancy.
4. Leafy green vegetables
Due to monthly menstrual blood loss and loss of blood during labour and delivery, iron deficiency anaemia is more prevalent in women. Irregular periods, fatigue, bodily pain, and dizziness can result from a drop in iron caused by heavy menstrual bleeding. The body cannot generate adequate red blood cells to carry oxygen to organs if iron levels are low. Iron and magnesium levels can therefore be increased by eating a variety of leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar with Honey
Apple Cider Vinegar has been proven to aid in hormone balance in the body. It helps to lose excessive accumulated abdominal fat too. It can also assist to alleviate the complications of PCOS, which is among the main causes of abnormal periods. To treat irregular menstruation, combine honey and apple cider vinegar as honey masks the sour aftertaste that many people dislike.
