9 mins read
Last updated : 11-11-2025
FRUITS TO AVOID IN PERIODS TIME
PINEAPPLE
Pineapple is a high sugar content fruit it can worsen the period cramps and bloating. The Pineapple will increase the blood flow and makes heavy bleeding because of over bleeding it may cause anemic problem,iron deficiency problem.
PAPAYA
Papaya contains estrogen like compounds it may leads to mood swing and cramps. The papaya was rich in fiber so it may can causes digestive problems papayas is a intensify hormonal fluctuations.So safe way to avoid Papaya during period.
MANGOES
Mangoes is a good fruit but not on periods due to high in fibre and sugar content can be cause digestive problem. Mangoes also cause cramps. Because of digestive problem diarrhea may happen during mensural time.
VEGETABLES TO AVOID IN PERIODS TIME
Peas,corns,mushrooms, onion,garlic,beans and legumes, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage etc....
Onions & garlic
Onion and garlic is high in fiber which can worsen in blotting and digestive problems. It may irritate the stomach and cause cramps. So you might want to reduce the conception of garlic and onion during your period.
Mushrooms
Mushroom is high in fibre and water content which can worse in digestive issues ,bloating and cramps problem. May increase the gas due to their high raffinose content.
Beans and legumes
While they are nutritious, beans and legumes can lead to gas and bloating for some people. So u might want to limit intake during periods.It may cause digestive issues .
AVOID SPICY FOOD DURING PERIOD
The spicy foods can sometimes irritate your stomach and digestive systems. Which may not comfortable during our periods time.It might be good idea to avoiding spicy food during periods.like hot peppers, spicy soups, streets food like fried rice,vada curry,and chettinad dishes,oil foods etc...
ALCOHOLIC AND SMOKEY
Now a days in over 2k generation so much of girls addicted to drugs so it must be avoid Drugs.Because it will cause a cramps, bloating, mood swing, fatigue and dehydration. Alcohol can cause water retention worsening in bloating. Smoking can causes increase estrogen leave may lead over bleeding. It may also disturb the hormonal balance.
AVOID CAFFEINE DURING MENSURAL TIME
Caffeine is constricted the blood vessels and increase cramps severity .it is also increase mood swing and anxiety. Caffeine may disturb our sleep .Caffeine can causes blotting because it is water retention.
Carbonated drinks and other Sugar drinks avoid during Periods
The sugar drinks can cause cramps severity. Carbonated drinks can water retention ,worsen in blotting,mood swings ,increase Anxiety and stress it is also dehydrate the body during mensural time. So it is must avoid during mensural time.
SAFE FOODS WE CAN ADD DURING MENSURAL TIME
Add normal water, Herbal tea,nuts and seeds like( almond, flaxseed,pumpkinseed etc..),hot chocolate,fatty fishes,yogurt, avacoda, fruits like pomegranate, apple,sweet potatoes etc..
These foods may reduced the cramp pain and improve mood and energy level, support hormonal balance and boast iron and calcium levels.
Why Black Gram Is a Period-Time Superfood
Black gram, also known as urad dal, is one of the most powerful yet underrated ingredients for women’s health. Packed with iron, protein, magnesium, and folate, it helps balance energy, reduce cramps, and replenish the blood loss that happens during menstruation.
1. Boosts Iron Levels and Prevents Fatigue
During periods, the body loses iron through blood. Low iron levels can cause dizziness, weakness, and mood swings. Black gram is a natural iron source that helps restore hemoglobin, making you feel energetic and less tired during your cycle.
2. Relieves Menstrual Cramps Naturally
Whole Black gram contains magnesium and potassium, two key minerals that relax muscles and soothe uterine contractions — offering gentle, natural pain relief similar to warm compresses or herbal teas.
3. Balances Hormones and Supports Digestion
The rich protein and healthy fats in urad dal help maintain hormonal balance and reduce bloating. Its high fiber content also supports gut health — an essential factor for smoother, less painful periods.
4. Strengthens Reproductive Health
In Ayurveda, black gram is believed to nourish the reproductive tissues (Shukra dhatu) and improve fertility. Regular inclusion supports overall uterine health, making it a go-to food for menstrual strength and recovery.
5. Fights Mood Swings and Improves Sleep
Thanks to its tryptophan content (a natural serotonin booster), black gram helps improve mood and promote restful sleep — both often disrupted during PMS and menstruation.
| Benefit | How It Helps | Key Nutrients |
|---|---|---|
| Reduces fatigue | Replenishes iron lost during bleeding and supports hemoglobin. | Iron, protein |
| Eases cramps | Minerals help relax uterine muscles and reduce contractions. | Magnesium, potassium |
| Supports hormone balance | Protein and healthy fats stabilise blood sugar and hormones. | Protein, healthy fats |
| Improves digestion & reduces bloating | High fibre content supports gut health and regularity. | Dietary fibre |
| Boosts mood & sleep | Contains amino acids that support serotonin production. | Tryptophan (amino acids) |
| Food Type | How It Helps | Example Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Warm Soups | Light, easy to digest; soothes the stomach and provides warmth. | Urad dal soup with cumin & garlic |
| Protein Dishes | Rebuilds strength and supports hormone balance. | Black gram dosa / idli |
| Energy Snacks | Quick energy, reduces sugar cravings and fatigue. | Roasted urad dal laddoo with jaggery |
| Porridge / Kitchari | Comforting, easy on digestion; can be enriched with ghee for warmth. | Black gram porridge with ghee & turmeric |
| Traditional Remedies | Used to nourish reproductive tissues and support recovery post-cycle. | Soaked urad dal + warm milk / jaggery |
| Combine With | Benefit | Usage Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Jaggery | Enhances iron replenishment and provides quick energy. | Make laddoos or add grated jaggery to warm porridge. |
| Turmeric | Anti-inflammatory; reduces pain and swelling during cramps. | Add a pinch to soups, porridge, or a warm golden milk. |
| Sesame Seeds | Good source of calcium to help with muscle relaxation and cramps. | Sprinkle ground sesame over porridge or mix into laddoos. |
| Banana / Dates | Boosts potassium and natural sugars to combat weakness and cramps. | Blend into a smoothie with soaked urad dal or top porridge with slices. |
| Coconut Oil / Ghee | Healthy fats support hormone regulation and provide warmth. | Use a teaspoon in porridge or when tempering dals and soups. |
Expert Tip: Combine With Other Menstrual-Friendly Foods
For best results, combine Whole Black gram with:
In every household, black gram has long been part of traditional recipes — not just for taste, but for women’s vitality. Whether you’re facing cramps, low energy, or emotional dips during your period, adding black gram to your diet offers a natural, effective, and affordable way to feel balanced and strong.
FAQ
1. Why should certain fruits like pineapple, papaya, and mango be avoided during periods?
Some fruits, such as pineapple, papaya, and mango, contain high sugar or fiber, which may worsen cramps, cause digestive discomfort, and trigger hormonal fluctuations. These effects can lead to bloating, diarrhea, mood swings, and even heavier bleeding during menstruation.
2. Which vegetables are best avoided during menstruation and why?
Vegetables like peas, corn, mushrooms, onion, garlic, beans, and cruciferous vegetables (cauliflower, cabbage, broccoli) may aggravate digestive issues, cause bloating, and increase cramps due to their high fiber and raffinose content. Reducing their intake can help minimize period discomfort.
3. Are spicy foods and street food problematic during the menstrual cycle?
Spicy foods can irritate the stomach, increase digestive distress, and worsen cramps and bloating. Street foods such as fried rice, vada curry, and chettinad dishes often contain oil and spices that may further aggravate menstrual symptoms. It’s advisable to limit their consumption during periods.
4. What role do caffeine and sugary drinks play in menstrual symptoms?
Caffeine constricts blood vessels and increases the severity of cramps, mood swings, and anxiety. Sugary and carbonated drinks contribute to water retention, bloating, dehydration, and heightened stress, making them unsuitable choices during menstruation.
5. What are some safe and beneficial foods to include in the period diet?
During menstruation, opt for hydrating drinks, herbal teas, nuts, seeds, yogurt, sweet potatoes, and iron-rich foods like Whole Black gram (urad dal). These can help reduce cramps, balance hormones, boost energy levels, and support mood and reproductive health.