Period Nutrition for Energy & Comfort: What to Eat When You Need It Most

Ever notice how your energy dips and your body feels different during your period? That's completely normal! Your body is working hard during menstruation, losing blood and important nutrients each day. The good news? What you eat and drink can make a huge difference in how you feel. At RedDrop, we believe that understanding your body's needs is just as important as having the right period products.

Sip Your Way to Comfort: Drinks That Support Your Cycle

Raspberry Leaf Tea: Nature's Period Helper

Raspberry leaf tea has been used for centuries to help with period discomfort. It works by gently relaxing the muscles in your uterus that cause cramping. I like to start drinking this a few days before my period begins for the best results. You can enjoy it hot with a little honey or make it into iced tea during warmer months.

Ginger Tea: Warming Relief When You Need It

One of the most important things during your period is keeping your body warm (which is why I always recommend those wool socks in my period care kit!). 

Ginger tea brings warmth from the inside out. It has amazing anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce cramping and help with the bloated feeling many of us experience. Simply steep fresh ginger slices in hot water, and your body will thank you. Skip the Ice-Cold Drinks! This might surprise you, but reaching for ice-cold beverages during your period can actually make cramps worse! Cold causes muscles to contract, which is exactly what we're trying to avoid when cramping. Opt for room temperature water or warming drinks instead. During summer, you can still stay cool with fruits like watermelon rather than shocking your system with icy drinks.

Meals That Rebuild & Restore

Iron-Rich Foods: Rebuilding What You've Lost

When you menstruate, you lose iron through your blood, which can lead to that exhausted feeling. Your body craves iron-rich foods for a reason! Including foods like:

• Red meat (a small serving of quality beef or lamb) 
• Dark leafy greens like spinach
• Lentils and beans
• Pumpkin seeds

These foods help your body replenish iron stores and fight period fatigue. I notice a huge difference in my energy levels when I mindfully include these foods during my period.

Anti-Inflammatory Meals: Calming Your Body From The Inside

 Inflammation can make period pain worse. Creating simple meals with anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce discomfort naturally. Think colorful plates with:
• Fatty fish like salmon (rich in omega-3s)
• Leafy greens
• Colorful berries
• Turmeric and ginger
• Healthy fats like avocado

You don't need complex recipes by just focusing on including these foods in your meals can make a difference in how you feel. 

Snacks for Energy Boosts & Mood Lifts 

Banana & Nut Butter: My Period Power Snack

This is my go-to when period fatigue hits! Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps reduce bloating and water retention (that puffy feeling you might get). Paired with some almond or peanut butter for protein, this snack provides steady energy without the crash. Bananas are also naturally rich in vitamin B6, which can help with mood swings.

Dark Chocolate: When Your Cravings Have a Purpose

 Ever notice how you crave chocolate during your period? That's your body being smart! Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which helps relax muscles and reduce cramping. It also boosts your serotonin levels and that's your body's natural feel-good chemical. Choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the most benefits. A couple of squares can be actual medicine, not just a treat! I always keep some in my period care kit.

Seeds for Cycle Support

Different seeds can support different phases of your cycle. During your period, focusing on flax and pumpkin seeds can be especially helpful as they provide essential fatty acids and nutrients that support hormone balance. Simply add a spoonful to your morning yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothie. No complex recipes needed!

Listen To Your Body

Your period cravings aren't random. They're your body's way of asking for what it needs. If you're craving certain foods during your period, take a moment to wonder what your body might be telling you. Is it asking for more iron? More magnesium? More comfort?

Creating a positive relationship with food during your period is part of learning to honor your body's natural rhythms. At RedDrop, we believe that period care goes beyond just the right products – it's about nurturing your whole self as you move through this normal, healthy cycle.