Why Eat Fruit During Your Period?
For many of us, it is easy to fall into the trap of eating carb-rich comfort food during our period. While indulging in our cravings like pizza, pie, and mac-n-cheese might seem like a good idea at the time, it can often have negative consequences. For instance, some experience bloating, diarrhea, constipation, lethargy and cramping on an average day but during our period these discomforts can intensify.
But the fact of the matter is, that sometimes we need to feel our best even when our hormones are raging because as powerful individuals we have important things to do. For most of us, life doesn’t stop just because we’re bleeding.
That’s why it’s important to fuel your body with healthy foods during your period and fruit is one of the best options. Now, we’re not saying that you should only eat fruits on your period. Of course not. That’s ridiculous. What we are trying to say is that if you need to feel like your most optimal self, you should reach for light healthy foods that will give you the nutrition you need to think clear thoughts and feel good physically.
In this post, we are sharing the 5 best fruits to eat during your period + a delicious smoothie recipe that serves as a healthy breakfast or snack to keep you on the right track.
Fruits to Eat During Your Period
Banana
Banana’s are rich in potassium, fiber, vitamins, and just the right amount of healthy carbohydrates. Banana’s will help you feel full while also giving you the extra nutrients your body needs to beat the slump so that you get the perfect boost of natural energy.
Avocado
Avocado is all the rage these days and totally on-trend. You can put it in your smoothie, on your toast, or make it into quite possibly the best dip ever created- guacamole! Avocado is a fruit and one of the best fruits to eat during your period. First, avocado is heavy in monosaturated fat +Omega 3’s (aka good fat) and your body needs these fats to function and keep your energy level up. These natural fats also help nourish your skin and nails. Further, it’s worth mentioning that avocados will help you feel full so that you can curb cravings.
Strawberry
When you’re on your period it’s easy to feel stressed, depressed and anxious which can lead to illness. Strawberries are a super sweet fruit that packs a powerful punch in terms of nutrition. Strawberries have anti-inflammatory properties and are good for your immune system. They will help you stay healthy and strong while your bleeding.
Coconut
Coconut milk is the perfect way to access antioxidants while on your period. Complete with amino acids, vitamin C , B-complex vitamins, enzymes and a variety of minerals, some of which include magnesium , calcium, and zinc . Some even consider coconut milk an all-natural power drink. Bonus points if you take the time to use real coconut milk from raw coconut.
Spinach
Okay, you caught us… we put a veggie on a list of fruits but spinach is too important for your period to leave out. According to Healthline , “It’s common to experience a dip in your iron levels during your period, particularly if your menstrual flow is heavy. This can lead to fatigue, bodily pain, and dizziness. Leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach can boost your iron levels. Spinach is also rich in magnesium.” Therefore, if you’re feeling unmotivated and wondering what the best food to eat during your period is then you should definitely consider grabbing a handful of spinach.
Other Fruits to Consider
Not everyone loves the fruits (and veggie) listed above so we thought we would take the time to incorporate a few more options for you. Fruits that are packed with water are a great way to stay hydrated during your periods. Some of these options include watermelon, cucumber, and pineapple. Fruit also contains natural sugars that help stabilize your blood sugar.
Remember, listen to your body. If you walk through the fresh fruit aisle at your local grocery store or farmers market and something looks irresistible, then your body is likely trying to tell you something important.
If all else fails, at the very least you may want to try to avoid or reduce your intake of fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, and salty foods because these are what often lead to excess bloating and that yucky run-down feeling.
Smoothie Recipe Perfect for Your Period
PREP TIME: 6 minutes
TOTAL TIME: 7 minutes
INGREDIENTS
- 1 ripe Banana
- 1 handful of Spinach
- Half an Avocado
- 4 Strawberries
- ¾ of a Cup of Coconut milk
- A Few Ice Cubes (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Pour the coconut milk into the bottom of your blender.
- Add the banana, spinach, avocado, and strawberries on top of the milk.
- Blend to your desired thickness.
- Add the optional ice cubes if you prefer chilled smoothies.
- Pour into your favorite glass and enjoy your delicious fruit smoothie! Cheers!
Don’t forget, the fresher the better. Fruit that is harvested and allowed to ripen on the tree/vine is going to be more nutrient-dense than food that was picked early and shipped to your local grocery store from around the world.
Feel Better on Your Period
Feeling crappy on your period isn’t easy. Every little thing you are expected to do can seem like it takes all of your energy. If you are struggling with cramps, mood swings, low energy, etc, you’ll want to consider eating fruit during your period. This can be a great way to help your body combat these annoying period problems.
P.S. you wanna know what else can help you have a more chill period? The nixit menstrual cup. If you’re interested, you can learn more about it here. It’s the talk of the town!
