Painful Periods aren’t “Normal…”

I can’t tell you the number of women I’ve talked to who experience painful periods and PMS. Some experience more intense and painful symptoms than others. Regardless, it is NOT normal and it does not have to be that way. The conversation around and experience of it has become normalized and that is not right.

We’ve been taught to believe that painful periods are a normal part of life as women… that we just have to accept and deal with it. But what we haven’t been taught is that this is untrue. Painful periods are a sign of imbalance and are caused by pathogens in the reproductive system. Premenstrual symptoms (PMS) are caused by viruses, bacteria, and toxins inhabiting the reproductive organs, causing inflammation thus resulting in symptoms. We have normalized these symptoms for all too long, believing that there is nothing we can do about them, unaware that there is a way to heal and have healthy pain-free periods.

A big reason we experience PMS is due to the impact our cycle has on our immune system. When we menstruate our immune system is lowered by 80% and when we ovulate our immune system is lowered by 40%, resulting in the appearance and onset of symptoms. We may not realize we have a low-grade viral or bacterial infection that is responsible for causing the symptoms as they are not as apparent when our immune system is functioning at full capacity.

In becoming aware we can take aligned action to support ourselves, elevate our health, and reverse symptoms that have been holding us back for years. It is important to reconnect to our bodies so that we can become aware of the symptoms we’ve been experiencing but may have written off as “normal.” In becoming aware of our symptoms and the true cause we can then take aligned action to heal. Food is a foundational part of healing. The foods we eat have the potential to harm or heal us. When we are dealing with PMS and other reproductive health symptoms it is important to let go of foods that are perpetuating the symptoms and incorporate more of the nutrient dense healing foods so that we can reclaim our health, feel confident in our bodies, and elevate our energy!

Premenstrual Symptoms that are NOT “normal:”

Acne

Bloating

Constipation

Depression

Fatigue

Headaches

Migraines

Mood swings

Nausea

Painful cramps

Foods to Avoid / Foods that Contribute to PMS & other Symptoms:

Eggs

Dairy

Gluten

Corn

Soy

Canola Oil

High Fat Foods

Processed Foods

Fertility Foods to Supports a Healthy Menstrual Cycle:

Fruit:

Apples

Bananas

Berries

Dates

Mangoes

Melons

Oranges

Wild blueberries

Leafy Greens:

Kale

Spinach

Lettuce

Veggies:

Artichokes

Asparagus

Cauliflower

Potatoes

Sprouts

Squash

Sweet potatoes

Supplements that Support Reproductive Health:

Chaga Mushroom Powder- a powerful immune support that helps minimize viral and bacterial loads

Curcumin- a powerful anti-inflammatory that supports circulation and purifies the blood

Honey- a powerful adaptogen that is anti-inflammatory and supports reproductive health and fertility

Lemon Balm- a powerful adrenal support that supports regulating the nervous system

Vitamin C- anti-viral and anti-bacterial that supports the immune system

Zinc- a powerful anti-viral and anti-bacterial supplement to supports adrenals and endocrine system

Teas:

Nettle Leaf- anti-inflammatory adaptogen that supports the adrenals and endocrine system

Raspberry Leaf- anti-inflammatory adaptogen that supports the reproductive system + balances hormones naturally

Red Clover- a potent lymphagogue that supports the lymphatic system, liver and endocrine system.

Your symptoms are simply a sign of imbalance in the body and can be healed and reversed. The more aware we become, the more empowered we become.

You are meant to thrive — it is time to reclaim your health and remember your power!