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Stay hydrated
Besides its numerous other benefits, drinking plenty of water can also help reduce bloating during your period. Staying hydrated ensures that your digestive system is working properly and prevents any electrolyte imbalances. This will prevent any food contents from building up in the gut, which often leads to bloating and constipation.
Avoid salty foods
Changes in hormone levels through your menstrual cycle––particularly leading up to and during your period––can increase fluid retention in the body. This may contribute to the bloated feeling you may experience on your period.
Foods high in salt can exacerbate this effect and cause your body to hold on to even more water.
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Skip the morning coffee
Drinking coffee can cause your stomach to release a hormone called gastrin. Gastrin stimulates the stomach to release gastric acid to break down foods during digestion. However, gastrin may also cause your intestines to start contracting, which quickly moves food and liquid through the digestive system. In some people––especially those with more sensitive stomachs––this effect can cause temporary bloating and discomfort.
Avoid alcohol
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it will cause you to lose fluids much more rapidly than normal. This can easily lead to dehydration, which can cause bloating. Additionally, alcohol can also irritate the digestion system––so make sure to skip the alcohol if you are experiencing period bloating.
Light exercise
Mild to moderate exercise, such as a long walk or bike ride, can help ease bloating by expelling any excess gas in your body and promoting digestion. Staying active also has a range of other benefits, such as improving your mood and overall physical health.
Consider using birth control pills
If you experience persistent bloating due to your period, birth control pills may be a good option for you. In addition to its contraceptive benefits, birth control pills can help make your periods––called withdrawal bleeds––lighter and more manageable.
If you want to learn more, you can book a teleconsultation with our team of doctors at any time. With Ease, you can also get your prescription delivered to your doorstep, so you can access discreet and comprehensive healthcare from the comfort of your home.
