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Some months, it’s like your period shows up with a personal vendetta. The cramps are louder, the bloating is next-level, and your mood is all over the place.
While there are a million reasons things can feel off, what’s on your plate might be playing a bigger role than you think. In fact, some of those “comfort foods” might be doing the exact opposite of comforting.
Of course, nobody’s saying you have to ditch every craving or eat like a wellness monk for seven days straight. But knowing which foods can make things harder on your body can be game-changing, especially when you’re already doing smart stuff like adding FLO supplements to your routine.
So, what should you ease up on when your period hits like a freight train? Read on to learn the answer.
Can Too Much Salt Make Bloating Worse?
The short answer is: yes. Salt might seem harmless, but it can be a sneaky culprit behind your bloating. When you eat a lot of sodium, your body holds onto extra water to balance it out, which can mean puffy fingers, a tight waistband, and that heavy vibe that makes everything less comfortable.
You don’t need to go salt-free, but it helps to be aware of where it’s hiding. Spoiler alert: It’s not just the chips. In fact, salt can be found in many soups, sauces, and anything labeled “quick” or “microwavable.”
If you’re craving something savory, try roasted veggies with sea salt, a simple baked potato, or even air-popped popcorn with olive oil. You’ll still get a salty fix, but without the balloon effect.
What’s the Deal With Caffeine and PMS?
A morning coffee might feel like your lifeline, but depending on how your body reacts, it could also feed into your PMS symptoms. Caffeine can sometimes make you feel more jittery, restless, or irritable — precisely what you don’t need when your hormones are already having a moment. Coffee can also mess with your sleep, which just adds more fuel to the fire.
If you’re pounding multiple cups a day or reaching for energy drinks to survive the week, it might be worth dialing it back. Start your day with just one coffee, then switch to green tea or a half-caf option in the afternoon. A little goes a long way, and giving your nervous system a break might help take the edge off your mood swings.
Should You Avoid Sugar During Your Period?
Sugar is tempting for a reason. When your energy and mood dip, a donut (or two) can seem like the perfect solution. However, while this carbohydrate can give you a temporary boost, it’s often followed by a sugar crash, and that rollercoaster can make your cramps feel worse and your moods even moodier.
That doesn’t mean you have to swear off dessert! Just be mindful of how much added sugar sneaks in throughout the day, especially from packaged snacks, flavored drinks, or “healthy” bars that are sweeter than they are satisfying.
If you’re craving something indulgent, go for it. Just aim for options with real ingredients and some fiber or protein to keep your blood sugar steady. Think a square of dark chocolate with almonds or dates stuffed with nut butter — sweet, but smart!
Is Dairy Good or Bad During Your Period?
Dairy can be tricky. Some people feel totally fine eating it during their cycle, while others notice it makes their symptoms feel worse. If you’ve ever felt off after eating ice cream or a cheesy sandwich during your period, your body might be sensitive to how it breaks down lactose, especially when hormones are shifting.
Try swapping in non-dairy options like oat or almond milk, or choose yogurt with live cultures, which can make digestion easier. If you love cheese, go for aged, hard cheeses in small amounts, as they tend to be lower in lactose and may sit better. It’s all about testing what works for you.
Learn What Works — And What Doesn’t
At the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all period plan. What leaves one person feeling awful might be totally fine for someone else. The key is staying tuned in and paying attention to how certain foods make you feel. Some days call for leafy greens and lentils, others call for fries and chocolate. Ultimately, it’s about balance, not restriction.
If your symptoms ever feel unmanageable, unpredictable, or just not right, don’t hesitate to check in with your doctor. They can help you find the right tools, supplements, or lifestyle shifts to make your cycle feel a little less chaotic. But when all is said and done, don’t forget that change starts with you.