Is the stomach heavy during menstruation? Reasons and Expert Tips!

Abdominal heaviness, which can be called bloating, starts 1 week before menstruation in some women. Abdominal bloating is one of the most common problems during menopause. A change in hormonal balance is a physiological change that most women experience.

The hormones estrogen and progesterone play an important role in a woman’s menstrual cycle, and progesterone is often the cause of this bloated feeling. These are female hormones that change throughout the menstrual cycle.

We spoke to Dr. Lavanya Kiran, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician and Reproductive Specialist at Cloud Nine Hospital, Bengaluru, who shares the various menstrual problems, symptoms and how to reduce them.

This may also help: Things Women Shouldn’t Do During Periods

Some common symptoms of bloating are:

You may also feel like eating differently when your stomach is heavy but you should always pay more attention to what you eat. If you eat too much processed food, it can make the symptoms worse.

How to reduce swelling?

Sleep well

According to Dr. Kiran, regular sleep at night during menstrual cycle days is very important. Be mindful of your sleep schedule, especially during menstruation.

If you don’t sleep well, you feel tired throughout the day. This condition can worsen your symptoms and affect your daily routine.

Be active

According to Dr. Kiran, people who are active throughout their menstrual cycle are less likely to experience bloating. Although there is a feeling of swelling, the symptoms are manageable.

She recommends regular exercise during menstruation, before and after menstruation. However, light exercises can be chosen instead of an intense workout. Swimming, yoga (basic yoga exercises) etc can help with this problem.

Reduce sugar

He recommends cutting down on processed sugar and sweetened beverages. It can increase symptoms or worsen cramps. If you experience PMS or bloating during periods, you should avoid caffeine, store-bought drinks, soft drinks and alcohol.

Consuming caffeine can cause irritable bowel syndrome or digestive tract problems. Coffee and alcohol cause dehydration, making it harder for your body to retain water.

Dr. Kiran says women should pay extra attention to what they eat during menstruation. It is better to choose fresh and healthy food instead of cold and processed foods.

She recommends eating foods rich in protein and potassium to help reduce inflammation. The list includes bananas, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, cucumber, tomato, sweet potato, pineapple, garlic, ginger etc.

You should stay away from foods like cauliflower, cabbage, beans, broccoli and spinach. These vegetables can cause gas and bloating. Choose only home cooked food.

This may also help: What to drink to relieve menstrual pain easily?

Dr. Kiran also urges you to monitor your symptoms. If the swelling and its painful symptoms persist even after menstruation and interfere with your daily routine, you should consult your gynecologist. The doctor will conduct some tests and give you a better idea to lead a healthy life.

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