Best & Worst Foods For PMS

LADIES!

I know this may be an uncomfortable subject, but let’s face it – it’s a monthly fact for most of us, and it’s not always pleasant. Since our monthly menstrual cycle closely mirrors the cycles of the moon, I like to call it “moon time.” (In 8th grade, my friends and I used to call it “George.” Not sure why, but it made sense to us). “Moon time” sounds much more pleasant and sort of mystical, right?

Since ancient times, this moon time has been celebrated as a time when women are more intuitive and wise. If we let ourselves to rest, feel deeply, and allow our intuitive nature to shine through, we can start to honor the moon time instead of dreading it. However you look at it, it’s no secret that our energy levels can drop and our emotions can be totally draining during this time of the month.

Eating nourishing foods, and limiting foods that will cause more physical and emotional chaos, can make it so much easier.

PMS can feel different for everyone. For me, personally, I tend to get tired and emotional. Food-wise, I crave more caffeine, since my energy levels feel low. In actuality, caffeine can make your PMS symptoms worse. Drinking lots of water instead, even if you’re seriously craving a huge coffee – can really work wonders. And listen, I’m not suggesting that you completely cut out chocolate (no way!), but try not to use chocolate as a drug when you’re feeling tender. (And, please, choose quality chocolate!)

Emotionally, I cry easier during this time and things feel a little more dramatic. I don’t know about you, but when I’m emotional, sometimes I crave sweets. And once again, as many of you know…sugar can cause your emotions to go even more haywire! So in reality it’s best to steer clear of the sugar and caffeine and stick to more natural, loving foods.

SO – if you want to have an easier “moon time,” physically and emotionally, here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:

Foods to reduce:

• Caffeine
• Sugar
• Flour
• Milk
• Gluten
• Alcohol
• Salt

Foods to amp up:

• Water
• Veggies – especially leafy greens
• Healthy fats and Omega 3s (avocado, olive oil, fish, nuts)
• Clean, healthy protein (organic animal food, beans, whatever protein works best for you)
• Gluten-free whole grains (quinoa, brown rice)
• Herbal teas (ginger, chamomile, moon cycle tea)
• Naturally sweet foods – fruit and sweet vegetables

“If we honored the inherent wisdom of our bodies, we would learn to listen, to treat them with respect instead of judgment, and to experience them as sacred messengers that bring us information about our physical needs, our innermost feelings, and our individual internal rhythms.” -Anita Johnston, Eating in the Light of the Moon

If you have a lot of trouble with your moon time and want to smooth things out, check this out:

Now…I’d love to hear if you have any favorite healing methods for moon time symptoms.

Share your wisdom with me!!