When you’re on your period, all you dream of is a blanket, Netflix and comfort food. However, it is often on the plate that the problems worsen. More intense cramps, bloating, overwhelming fatigue, hormonal outbreaks… What if it wasn’t just your cycle, but also what you eat that was playing tricks on you?
Every month, your body turns into a chemical laboratory. Hormones are racing, your digestive system is slowing down, and your mood is yo-yoing. Result: certain foods become real enemies. Even those that we think are “comforting” can flare up inflammation, cause fluid retention, or increase anxiety. Here are the 8 worst ones to absolutely avoid during your period.
Dairy products, unsuspected enemies
Did you think melted cheese or yogurt for breakfast did you good? Bad pick. Dairy products are known to be inflammatory, especially during periods. Lactose and casein can disrupt your digestive system, which is already slowed down during this period. Result: increased abdominal pain, more difficult digestion, and sometimes even skin reactions.
Milk also stimulates the production of prostaglandins, the hormones responsible for uterine contractions. The more there are, the more violent the cramps. And if you’re prone to hormonal acne, reducing or eliminating dairy products during your period can make a real difference to your skin.
Coffee, sugar, red meat: the trio that makes everything worse
From the first days of your period, do you reach for your coffee, a square of chocolate or rare meat? It’s precisely this cocktail that can sink you even further.
- Caffeine: it contracts blood vessels, which intensifies cramps and increases irritability. It can also disrupt your sleep and increase anxiety.
- Refined sugar: it causes glycemic peaks which upset your emotions even more. Additionally, it aggravates inflammation and increases joint and muscle pain.
- Red meat: rich in saturated fats and prostaglandins, it stimulates uterine contractions. Eating steak on your period is like pressing a “pain++” button.
This infernal trio also tires your liver, which already has a lot of work during this period. Result: you feel heavy, nervous and bloated… literally.
Salt, fried foods, ice cubes and spices: the false friends of comfort
When your belly is swollen like a balloon, it’s not just a question of hormones. Your diet also plays a huge role. And certain very practical or “comforting” foods make everything worse.
- Salt retains water in your tissues and amplifies bloating. Forget the chips or industrial dishes armored with sodium.
- Fried foods (nuggets, donuts, fries, etc.) boost sebum production, promoting hormonal acne breakouts.
- Iced drinks, which are so pleasant in the mouth, can trigger contractions and make cramps worse. Hot drinks are more suitable during this period.
- Strong spices irritate an already more sensitive digestive system. If you often have diarrhea or stomach aches during your period, it is better to calm the heat on the plate side.
Summary list: 8 foods to avoid during your period
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Caffeine (coffee, soda, black tea)
- Refined sugar (pastries, candies, sodas)
- Red meat (beef, lamb, cold meats)
- Salt (chips, prepared meals, industrial sauces)
- Fried foods (fries, nuggets, donuts)
- Frozen drinks (very cold water, frosted smoothies)
- Strong spices (chili pepper, curry, excess pepper)
FAQ: What you (really) wonder about during your period
1. Is chocolate bad during your period?
Not necessarily, it all depends on the type of chocolate. Milk chocolate is high in refined sugar and dairy products, so avoid it. On the other hand, dark chocolate with at least 85% cocoa can be a good option: it contains magnesium, which helps relax muscles and can relieve cramps.
2. What brand of hot drink is recommended during your period?
Herbal teas made from chamomile, ginger, fennel or raspberry are ideal. Brands like
Pukka,
Yogi Tea or
Romon Nature offers targeted infusions for menstrual comfort. Avoid overly caffeinated black or green teas during this period.
3. Should you completely stop drinking coffee during your period?
Not necessarily, but it is better to limit consumption. A cup in the morning can be fine if you tolerate it well, but avoid doing it all day. For a caffeine-free alternative, consider drinks made with chicory, rooibos or pure cocoa.
4. Are plant milks better tolerated during periods?
Yes, plant-based milks such as those made from oats, almonds or rice are often more digestible and do not cause inflammation like dairy products of animal origin. Be careful with sweetened or flavored versions, which may contain refined sugar.
5. Are certain brands of prepared meals to avoid during your period?
Absolutely. Many industrial prepared meals (even organic) are very high in salt, sugar or saturated fats. Brands to watch often include big box products like
Fleury Michon,
Mary or
Sodebo. Read the labels carefully: the fewer ingredients, the better.
Photo credit: @shutterstock
