Menstrual pain is a throbbing or cramping feeling in the lower abdomen that tends to occur just before and during a woman’s period. The level of pain differs from person to person, but there are lots of ways to reduce or treat the pain, including using supplements. Express.co.uk reveals the six best supplements for period pain.
Magnesium
When taken daily, magnesium could potentially prevent menstrual cramps.
According to the experts at Clue, magnesium works by relaxing the smooth muscle of the uterus and reducing the prostaglandins that cause period pain.
Some researchers suggest that magnesium is such a great treatment for PMS because it calms the nervous system and normalises the actions of different hormones on the central nervous system.
Magnesium can be found in green leafy vegetables, chocolate and nuts, but supplements are often necessary because magnesium is depleted by stress.
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Zinc
Zinc is a key player in the production of oestrogen and progesterone – the hormones that stimulate the ovaries and bring on a period.
The experts at A Vogel said: “There is also some evidence to suggest that zinc could help to ease severe menstrual cramps to allow women to continue with their regular routine.
“The reasons for this are debated slightly though it could be to do with the anti-inflammatory properties of the mineral.
“Oyster, beef, pumpkin seeds and cashew nuts are all great sources of zinc.”
B Vitamins
Vitamin B1 and B12 could both help to ease menstrual cramps.
Vitamin B12 is particularly useful if you have heavy periods because the vitamin makes red blood cells, which help to prevent anaemia.
Studies have shown that the combination of vitamin B12 and fish oil can contribute to relieving period pain.
Anyone concerned about their periods should discuss their symptoms with a GP.
