Can I eat spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation?

Jan 22, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, it is not recommended to consume spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation. Spicy and stimulating foods can easily cause blood vessel dilation, which may lead to increased pelvic congestion and exacerbate menstrual pain. For women who already suffer from dysmenorrhea, consuming such foods during menstruation may result in more severe pain. It is advisable to avoid or minimize the intake of spicy and stimulating foods during the menstrual period.

Generally speaking, it is not recommended to consume spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Spicy and stimulating foods can easily cause vasodilation, possibly leading to more pronounced pelvic congestion, thus exacerbating menstrual pain. For women who already suffer from dysmenorrhea, consuming spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation might intensify the pain. Additionally, consuming spicy and stimulating foods may affect female hormone levels, causing abnormal changes in the menstrual cycle or menstrual flow. For example, it may increase menstrual flow, prolong or shorten the menstrual period, and long-term consumption might lead to menstrual disorders.

Moreover, hormonal fluctuations during menstruation may weaken gastrointestinal function, causing symptoms such as indigestion and bloating. At this time, consuming spicy foods may irritate the gastric mucosa, increase gastrointestinal burden, and trigger or worsen discomfort such as stomach pain and diarrhea. Therefore, it is not advisable to consume spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation.

However, there are individual differences, and some women do not experience significant discomfort after consuming spicy and stimulating foods in moderation during menstruation. Nevertheless, to maintain health and reduce menstrual discomfort, it is recommended to avoid or reduce the intake of spicy and stimulating foods during menstruation, opting instead for bland and easily digestible foods.

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