Avoid Caffeine and Salty Foods, Stay Hydrated and Try Acupressure
Some foods play more significant roles than others when it comes to relieving or exacerbating period pain. For example, eating foods that reduce inflammation may help reduce period cramps. Some of these foods include:
- Avocado
- Berries
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fatty fish
It is also advisable to reduce your intake of foods that can cause bloating, discomfort, and water retention.
- Fatty foods
- Caffeine
- Alcohol [6]
- Salty foods
Abdominal pains are more severe if you are not properly hydrated. It would help to drink at least 8-ounce glasses of water per day. You will need more water if the weather is hot, if you have been exercising, or if you feel thirsty.
Acupressure is a noninvasive procedure that helps relieve different types of pain. It involves using your fingers to put firm pressure on specific parts of the body to relieve symptoms. Studies show that acupressure helps reduce the frequency and severity of period pain. Older study reviews also show that rubbing circles on your calf at a point above your ankle can also help relieve period pain.