Please Ladies Read: Menstrual Period pains can be alleviated...

It has been said that women have around 480 to 500 menstrual cycles in their lifetime. These days, the periods are starting earlier. For some women, it is business as usual as they go through their cycle and their whole world is not grounded to a halt.

For others, that time of the month can be described as quite eventful as they experience very painful periods including severe

cramps known as dysmenorrhea. Everyone around them will one way or the other, get to know it is a very special time -they are ill, the lower abdominal pains are just too excruciating, they are unable to make it to school or work, accompanied with heavy menstrual flow. They live with the pain, school /work disruption month in, month out.

Fluctuations in the levels of estrogen and progesterone play a major role in the menstrual cycle. It is believed that the decline in hormonal levels triggers menstrual symptoms. Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals may also be contributing factors.

Some other symptoms that women experience usually referred to as pre menstrual syndrome include:

• Cravings for sweet and salty foods like chocolates, cakes,etc

• Some lose their appetite

• Acne

• Breast swelling and tenderness

• Bloating, water retention

• Mood swings

• Headaches

• Migraines

• Irritability, anger, depression

•  Anxiety

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Loss of sex drive

• Fatigue, lack of energy

• Weight gain

The symptoms you experience make you dread your periods. You probably have consistently relied on pain relievers and some other medications ‘recommended’ (not prescribed) by the friend of a friend month after month. Or you are just at some point that you are beginning to feel you are not getting any relief from medication. Here are some natural tips that can be used to alleviate period problems:

• Take Essential Fatty Acids (EFA) Supplements such as evening primrose, udos oil, and krill oil. EFAs are invaluable for reducing pain, balancing hormones and regulating menstrual cycles.

• Ensure your blood sugar levels are well balanced by eating proteins, such as fish, chicken, nuts.

• Apply heating pad or hot water bottle to lower belly area.

• Drink warm beverages.

• Drink plenty of fluids -not caffeine or alcohol

• Avoid sugar, sugary foods and drinks.

• Eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, fruits and whole grains.

• Exercise regularly.

• Take magnesium citrate supplements. Magnesium is usually referred to as nature’s tranquillizer.

• Massage your lower back and abdomen

Take natural steps suggested above to avoid disruption of your work, and lifestyle every month. You can lessen the severity of your menstrual cramps. Stay ahead of the pain associated with menstrual cramps.

I wish you optimum health and well-being!

-Arinola Adeniyi (arinola@venivicispa.com)

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