How To Have A Better Period

Most women do not look forward to that "time of the month." No matter how many times we have them, it's still uncomfortable. This is the time where we tend to deal with gas, bloating, menstrual cramps, etc.,. Hormonal fluctuations can cause changes to our mood and energy levels. Many of us try to distract ourselves by putting on a romance movie and reaching for a pint of ice cream. In this newsletter, we will share some ways to make the process more bearable.

1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you”

Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral that regulates blood sugar, muscle and nerve function, hormones, bone density, and DNA repair. Magnesium is great for getting your muscles to relax. Many athletes will consume magnesium after working out. During menstruation the body can have an overproduction of prostaglandins causing period pains. Magnesium lowers the prostaglandin levels, therefore

minimizing period pain.

Heating Pad

Heat therapy will relax the muscles that are contracting, while increasing the blood flow in your uterus. For those who don't like taking over the counter medications and/or love saving money, this is a cost effective approach as a heating pad can be used repetitively. There are microwaveable, electrical, and adhesive options depending

on which one is more convenient for you.

Water

Although water might not have a direct effect on period cramps, increasing your water intake will decrease bloating and minimize

water retention in your body.

Hot Tea

Ginger tea will ease cramps by decreasing inflammation and production of prostaglandins.

Chamomile tea is anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory which helps to reduce muscle spasms in uterus.

Peppermint tea will reduce the gastrointestinal symptoms

causing gas, bloating, and what we call " period poops.”

Avoid

Avoid salty foods which can cause bloating and water retention. Red meat, caffeine, and spicy foods can worsen period symptoms depending on the person. Alcohol can increase inflammation and disrupt your hormones. Highly processed and sugary foods can worsen period cramps.

OTC

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAIDS can be found over the counter for pain relief. Ibuprofen medications like Motrin or Advil will slow down the production of prostaglandins. While acetaminophens like Midol or Tylenol will block pain receptors. Doctors recommend starting these the day before your period. Be sure to not to overuse, as this can cause liver damage.

Have Some Dark Chocolate

This is the time when it's perfectly okay to lay in bed, put on a movie, and eat some chocolate. Dark chocolate is especially rich in magnesium, which will help ease the

contractions in the uterine.

Visit Your Doctor

Sometimes there might be an underlying condition causing severe period cramping. PCOS, Endometriosis, fibroids, Adenomyosis, and Pelvic inflammatory disease are very common in the U.S. If you notice increased pain and irregular bleeding, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor about it.

Stay in Prayer

Due to the changes in our hormones we naturally tend to get more emotional during our menstrual cycle. The enemy loves to send warfare attacks during this time, to get you to speak against the promises of God or to cause disagreements with family and friends. Do not be deceived by the enemies devices.

This is a feature of our February 2025 newsletter. Sign up below to join the community and receive our monthly newsletters.