While reaching for the painkillers may seem like the easiest solution, why not give your body a little extra nourishment during your period? We’re about to introduce you to five unexpected foods that can work wonders for your reproductive health – from combatting cramps to reducing bloating.

Turmeric

This vibrant, golden spice boasts anti-inflammatory properties that can work wonders for reducing pain and swelling during your menstrual cycle. Plus, it's a superhero for balancing hormones and supporting your overall wellbeing. Sprinkle turmeric into your favourite dishes or brew yourself a comforting cup of golden milk – you’ll just need some milk, turmeric, ginger and cinnamon.

Keen to give it a go? Try our Chai Golden Milk recipe HERE!

Dark Chocolate

With chocolate, you can have your cake and eat it too – this indulgent snack is loaded with nutrients, while also packing a flavour punch. But it’s important to stick to a high cacao content chocolate! Added sugar will only make inflammation worse during your period, not to mention the host of other preservatives found in ultra-processed chocolate brands. Packed with magnesium, iron and antioxidants, this delightful treat can help alleviate cramps and boost your mood. It's also worth noting that cacao is more nutrient-dense than its processed counterpart, cocoa, so look out for the former in the ingredients list if you want to reap those cramp-relieving benefits.

Pineapple

This juicy fruit contains an enzyme called bromelain, which has been known to ease menstrual cramps and reduce bloating – plus, this enzyme is also a digestive powerhouse known to improve our nutrient absorption and ease up constipation. Considering one study found that 73% of women considered some kind of bowel issue or change during their period, it's worth loading up on foods rich in digestive enzymes, which also includes bananas, sauerkraut and number five on our list: ginger. Not only does it taste like a slice of paradise, but pineapple is also a fantastic source of vitamin C and manganese, boosting your energy levels when you need it most. 

Leafy Greens

When it comes to period health – and, well, pretty much all health – leafy greens are the true unsung heroes. Spinach, kale and a host of others greens are chock-full of iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining healthy blood flow and combating fatigue that can crop up for many during their period. These vibrant greens are also rich in fibre, aiding in digestion and keeping bloating at bay. So, go ahead and whip up a refreshing salad or toss those greens into a tasty smoothie.

Ginger

This zesty root has been used for centuries to alleviate menstrual pain and ease inflammation. Ginger contains gingerol, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties – it’s also known to reduce nausea. It can also help reduce sugar cravings and helping to balance our blood-sugar levels. Whether you sip on ginger tea, add it to your stir-fries or grate it into your baked goods, this versatile spice will be your trusty companion for all manner of symptoms. 

 Whether you’re looking to eat healthier or fight off a sugar addiction, we’re here to help. Join us for the 8-Week Program and we’ll help you change the way you look at food – and that doesn’t mean you have to follow restrictive diets or miss out on your favourite foods; we believe you can still enjoy delicious food without jeopardising your health. You might even consider gifting your mum with the program! With celebrity chef Sarah Glover on our panel of experts, you’ll have an array of fun recipes at your fingertips, along with our own exclusive armoury of simple, tasty and healthy recipes for everything from daily meals to impressive entertaining. We know it can be hard to stick to your health goals – especially when you’re trying to manage it alone. When you sign up with us, you’ll have access to clear-cut meal plans, community support and exclusive access to our sugar-free content. Here’s what’s on offer:

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