Every month, a woman's body undergoes hormonal changes resulting from the hormones estrogen and progesterone, involved in preparing the body to become pregnant. The result is the appearance of some signs, known as PMS (premenstrual tension).
During this period, some women are more agitated, have mood swings, crying spells for no apparent reason and, because they have more aggressive behaviors, they can have their daily activities and relationships harmed. Serotonin, a hormone responsible, among other things, for regulating mood may also drop.
One of the factors that contribute to make this period less stressful is food. Experts advise on foods such as carbohydrates (cereals, bread, brown rice and potatoes), distributed in small portions throughout the day. Foods rich in magnesium, vitamin B6 and calcium also improve PMS symptoms.
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The foods that can be good allies during this period are:
• Lentils, beans, chickpeas, due to the high content of carbohydrates and proteins, also help to regulate blood sugar levels;
• Vitamins E and B6 are found in oleaginous fruits such as peanuts, walnuts, almonds;
• Vitamin A, calcium and magnesium are found in kale, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Foods like carrots and peppers help reduce hypoglycemia;
• Fruit, in addition to regulating intestinal function, is a good option to reduce the desire for sweets;
• Leaves such as parsley and celery and fruits such as pineapple and watermelon act as diuretics, helping to retain fluid.
By Patricia Lopes
Brazil School Team
Would you like to reference this text in a school or academic work? Look:
LOPES, Patricia. "Power During TPM"; Brazil School. Available in: https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/saude/alimentacao-durantetpm.htm. Accessed on June 27, 2021.
