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What foods are good to eat a few days before menstruation?

Asked by:Rhododendron

Asked on:Apr 18, 2026 06:48 AM

Answers:1 Views:530
  • Barrett Barrett

    Apr 18, 2026

    A few days before menstruation, you can eat moderate amounts of foods rich in iron, vitamin B6, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids and dietary fiber to help relieve premenstrual discomfort symptoms.

    1. Food

    1.Animal liver

    Animal liver is rich in heme iron and has a high absorption rate, which can help prevent iron deficiency anemia caused by menstrual blood loss. Pork liver, chicken liver, etc. can be eaten 1-2 times a week. It is recommended to stew or stir-fry to reduce nutrient loss. People with high cholesterol need to control their intake.

    2. Banana

    Bananas are rich in vitamin B6 and potassium. Vitamin B6 can help regulate mood swings and relieve premenstrual anxiety and irritability. Potassium balances sodium levels in the body and reduces symptoms of edema. Choose bananas that are moderately ripe and avoid eating large amounts on an empty stomach.

    3.Dark chocolate

    Dark chocolate contains magnesium and polyphenols. Magnesium can relax muscles and relieve menstrual cramps, and polyphenols have anti-inflammatory effects. It is recommended to choose products with a cocoa content of more than 70% and limit the daily intake to 20-30 grams. Diabetics should consume with caution.

    4. Deep sea fish

    Deep-sea fish such as salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce premenstrual breast pain. Eat 2-3 times a week, steam or roast to retain nutrients. People allergic to seafood should avoid eating it.

    5. Oats

    Oats contain beta-glucan and dietary fiber, which can stabilize blood sugar fluctuations and improve premenstrual hunger and overeating tendencies. You can choose whole oatmeal porridge or instant oatmeal, and add nuts and fruits to increase the nutritional value. People with weak gastrointestinal function should consume it in moderation.

    2. Drugs

    1. Ferrous succinate tablets

    It is suitable for menstruating women diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. It can supplement iron to promote hemoglobin synthesis. Gastrointestinal irritation symptoms may occur and should be taken after meals to avoid taking it with calcium supplements.

    2. Vitamin B6 tablets

    Used to relieve the emotional symptoms of premenstrual tension syndrome and participate in neurotransmitter synthesis. Long-term use of large doses may cause peripheral neuropathy, so dosage must be controlled according to medical advice.

    3. Magnesium carbonate tablets

    It can improve premenstrual muscle spasm and headache symptoms and has a mild sedative effect. Use with caution in patients with renal insufficiency, and blood magnesium concentration needs to be monitored during medication.

    4. Evening primrose oil soft capsules

    Contains γ-linolenic acid, which can regulate prostaglandin balance and reduce premenstrual discomfort. Some people may experience nausea and other gastrointestinal reactions, and it is contraindicated for those with bleeding tendencies.

    5. Ibuprofen extended-release capsules

    Analgesic drugs for moderate to severe menstrual cramps that work by inhibiting prostaglandin synthesis. It is contraindicated in patients with gastrointestinal ulcers and is recommended for preventive use at the beginning of menstruation.

    Before menstruation, you should pay attention to eating regularly and eat small and frequent meals every day to avoid blood sugar fluctuations. Make sure to drink 1500-2000ml of water every day and limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Do appropriate low-intensity exercise such as yoga and walking, and get enough sleep. If severe premenstrual symptoms affect the quality of life, it is recommended to seek medical treatment promptly to check for organic diseases such as endometriosis.

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