Guide to Understanding the Connection Between Hydration and Optimal Menstrual Health

The Connection between Hydration and Menstrual Health

Menstruation is a natural process in women which involves an interplay of hormones and other physiological changes in the body. Hydration plays a significant role in supporting these processes.

Regulation of Hormones

Hydration impacts hormonal balance. Dehydration can cause an imbalance in oestrogen and progesterone hormones and exacerbate menstrual symptoms like mood swings, cramps and irregular periods.

Blood Flow

Staying hydrated, the body can adequately transport blood to the uterus and reproductive organs, preventing clotting and heavy bleeding. 

Detoxification

Water aids in the detoxification process, too. During menstruation, the body eliminates waste and excess tissue. Adequate water intake helps in flushing out toxins and reduces the risk of infections.

Research suggests that hydration can decrease the duration of menstrual bleeding and reduce the severity of pelvic pain among young women who suffer from dysmenorrhea.

Benefits of Staying Hydrated During Menstruation 

There are numerous advantages to staying well hydrated for good menstrual health.

Reduced Bloating

A common complaint during periods is bloating. Drinking sufficient water during periods prevents water retention and eliminates the discomfort caused by bloating.

Less Cramp Intensity

Menstrual cramps can get more painful with dehydration. A hydrated state helps relax your muscles and reduces cramp intensity significantly. 

Boosted Energy Levels

Say goodbye to fatigue and feeling lethargic. Boost your energy levels and overall well-being by maintaining your hydration levels.

Balanced Electrolytes

Balancing electrolytes such as sodium and potassium is essential for overall well-being. Proper hydration ensures that electrolyte levels remain stable, reducing the risk of muscle cramps and excessive water retention.

Pro Tip - Drinking at least 8 to 10 glasses of water a day helps in reducing bloating and cramps during periods.

Herbal Teas for Menstrual Health

Herbal teas are much sought after for their hydrating and therapeutic properties. Let's explore these for optimal menstrual health.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea has unique calming properties and is well known for this. It is known to be beneficial for reducing stress and anxiety - both of which can be high during menstruation. Chamomile also has anti-inflammatory effects, which can provide relief from menstrual cramps. 

Cumin Tea

Cumin is known for its anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxing properties. Drinking cumin tea helps reduce the intensity of cramps and relieves abdominal discomfort during menstruation.

Coriander Tea

Coriander is traditionally used in Ayurveda Medicine to reduce pitta, associated with heat and inflammation. Coriander tea can help reduce pitta and potentially decrease flow if you experience excessive bleeding during your period,

Ginger Tea

For centuries, ginger has been a natural remedy for various ailments, including nausea and inflammation. During your period, ginger tea can help soothe gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce nausea and the intensity of cramps.

Peppermint Tea

Known for its digestive benefit, peppermint tea can help relieve gas and bloating, common issues during menstruation. Peppermint has a refreshing flavour, which can have a soothing effect on your mood.

Pro Tip - Try these teas and see what works best for you. They can be soothing and helpful, but individual responses can vary. Choose what gives you the best results.

More Drinks to Alleviate Menstrual Discomfort

Here are a variety of drinks to choose from apart from tea for optimal hydration

Tender Coconut Water

It is rich in electrolytes and essential minerals and efficiently hydrates the body. It is one of the best choices to maintain electrolyte balance during your period.

Pomegranate Juice

It is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and alleviate menstrual discomfort.

Gruel from Rice or Millets 

Gruel, a warm and nourishing porridge made from rice or millet, is easy on the stomach and can provide a comforting source of hydration and energy during your period.

Raisins Soaked Water

Raisins soaked in water can provide a natural sweetness and boost energy. This water is highly hydrating and a nutritious choice, too. 

Warm Water with Lemon

Lemon water is a classic choice for hydration and offers the additional benefits of aiding digestion and reducing bloating. The warm temperature can also be soothing for abdominal cramps.

Ginger Infused Water

Being a potent anti-inflammatory agent, ginger-infused water is an excellent choice for alleviating cramps and nausea.

Fruit-Infused Water

Add flavour to your water by infusing it with fruits like apples, berries, or citrus. These infused waters provide hydration along with essential vitamins and antioxidants.

Best Practices for Staying Hydrated

There is more to being hydrated than just drinking herbal teas and water. It's necessary to stay consistent.

Here are some best practices to ensure you're maintaining proper hydration:

Track Your Water Intake

Keep a record of your daily water consumption. This can be done with a journal or through various smartphone apps. By tracking your water intake, you can meet your hydration goals and identify patterns in your hydration needs throughout your menstrual cycle.

Incorporate Hydrating Foods

Hydrating foods are an excellent complement to your fluid intake. Including cucumbers, watermelon, oranges, and other water-rich fruits and vegetables in your diet provides an extra source of hydration and vital nutrients.

Pro Tip - Start your day with a glass of warm water. 

Wrapping Up

Support your menstrual health by paying attention to your hydration needs. Too much or too little can be dangerous. It's important to strike that optimal balance by paying close attention to your body's needs. Be it herbal teas or other options, opt for what suits you best and see the difference soon.