Period Cramps, Stomach Pain - 3 Expert Diet Tips That May Help

That time of the month when many of us are reeling under period cramps is just the worst. How we wish we never have to face the painful period again but then it happens again, and again. And we resort to pills to feel better. But is there a better way to resolve the problem? There sure could be. Nutritionist Simrun Chopra helps us understand the cause and solution to period pains and this is something we all can learn from. She uploaded a post on her Instagram handle 'simrun.chopra' sharing the details.

She asserts that there are multiple reasons one can have period cramps - "Fibroids and Endometriosis are common factors and there's a common denominator. In both cases, high estrogen levels are observed. Basically hormonal imbalance that can be due to high estrogen or low progesterone production, or both. The balance of these 2 is imperative for female menstrual health."

(Also Read: Best Foods For Irregular Periods Suggested By Nutritionist)

Simrun Chopra also reveals some diet tips that can have a direct impact on estrogen levels and make our periods less painful. 

Here's 3 Diet Tips For Painful Periods:

1. Include high-fiber foods:

It is important to eats lots of fiber throughout the day. Include fibrous fruits, vegetables and grains in your daily diet. Nutritionist Simrun Chopra suggests having "at least 2 large servings of vegetables and at least one fruit a day." Click here to know more about high-fibre foods you can include in your diet.

2. Consume Omega 3 fatty acids

Chia seeds, flax seeds, walnuts, fish - all are good sources of healthy fatty acids. Want more options to increase omega 3 fats in your diet? Click here. 

3. Get lots of Vitamin D

"Low vitamin D is directly related to hormonal imbalances," says Simrun Chopra. Apart from getting your daily fix of vitamin D through natural sunlight, you can also turn to some foods that may help. Here is a list of vitamin D-rich foods you must have.  

Lastly, nutritionist Simrun Chopra advises to get some exercise to stay healthy and fit and resolve the hormonal imbalance issue. "Focus on at least 30 mins a day, 3 times per week, and also focus on moving more through the day," she adds. 

All diet changes may take time to show results. "Give your body the right nourishment for at least 6 months and allow it to do the rest," says Simrun Chopra.