April 09, 2020

What To Eat On Your Period

Often women struggle with knowing what to eat in the lead up to their period. For many this time of the month leads to cravings and an increased appetite which can make it hard to feel like you are staying on track with your healthy lifestyle.

But it doesn’t have to be this way, below are some simple strategies to support your diet during your period so that you can continue your healthy active lifestyle month round.

Eat A Little More

Our energy requirements increase around the time of our period, so don’t beat yourself up for feeling more hungry. You may need to increase the portion size of your meals a little, or add in an extra snack.

Starchy Carbs

Now is the time to include fibre rich starchy carbohydrate foods. These foods will keep you feeling full and reduce sugar cravings by regulating your blood sugars. Include foods like bananas, wholegrain bread, quinoa, rice, legumes, lentils, potatoes, corn, pasta 

Iron Rich FoodsDue to the blood loss that occurs during menstruation it is important to replenish your body with iron rich foods. These foods include red meat, eggs, tofu, lentils, kidney beans, black beans, leafy greens, dried apricots and figs or fortified foods.

Magnesium Rich Foods

Magnesium can be useful in helping manage PMS and period pain. Increase your intake food foods like pumpkin seeds, brazil nuts, tahini, almonds, cashews, peanut butter, legumes, oats, quinoa, and dark chocolate.

Don’t forget to be kind to yourself and listen to your body.