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Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Oh Those Painful Period Cramps

By Adriana Noton


Suffering from period cramps is a monthly reality for a majority of women around the world. Many of these women may even think that there is no alternative to simply suffering through it. Nothing could be farther from the truth. There are a few very easy things that, if tried, can help manage or completely resolve such a recurring problem.

Many of these tips and tricks can seem counterintuitive. For example, one of the best ways to manage pain during that time of the month is exercise. It might feel uncomfortable at first, but getting the muscles in your body moving will reduce any inflammation, and do wonders to relieve pain by having your body produce natural pain-fighting chemicals.

Another simple, natural remedy, is the humble cup of tea. Many herbs have been used for their soothing properties for centuries. In fact, pain relief medication is sometimes made by creating synthetic versions of the processes these herbs are designed to create, so why not go for the real thing - and enjoy a cup of one of the commonly used teas that have been a time-honored way of dealing with pain. Some of these teas are mint, blackberry, and raspberry.

A hot compress may also do wonders. It can be as simple as a hot water bottle placed on your belly or back, but another good way to relieve pain is by taking a hot shower or better yet, a hot bath. Wearing a simple shawl or scarf tied around your midsection can also do wonders to relieve discomfort.

Another fact that many women may overlook is that during that time of the month, there are many important minerals and vitamins which can be out of balance or needed. For example, calcium is a very important nutrient that can help prevent period cramps. Getting more calcium than usual can resolve many discomfort issues.

Magnesium is another important nutrient whose shortage can cause discomfort. It is a nutrient best found and absorbed through a number of healthy foods, such as tofu, raw veggies, nuts and fish. Vitamin supplements aren't a bad thing, but synthetic versions of natural elements can sometimes not be absorbed properly, so it's always best to go for the organic, natural version.

Of course, many women around the world use medication during that time, and there are many companies that spend millions of dollars in advertising convincing women that it is best to do so. However, chronic use of pain medication can have serious side effects, and can in some ways make the exact problem it is trying to solve worse by increasing instead of relieving pain.

Menstrual cramps do not need to be a fact of life. Sometimes, we can lose touch with our physical bodies, and it is easy to do so in today's hectic lifestyle. Taking the time to get to know your body and respond to its need can make not only for more pleasant periods, but for a healthier, and more responsive physical health overall. After all, your body has been designed to be strong and healthy, and there is no reason why it shouldn't be that all the time.




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