Can I eat rock sugar during my menstrual period?
Generally speaking, it is acceptable to consume rock sugar during menstruation, but intake should be controlled. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Consuming moderate amounts of rock sugar during menstruation is acceptable. Rock sugar has a neutral and slightly cool nature with a sweet taste and offers benefits such as replenishing vital energy and nourishing the spleen, moistening the lungs, and relieving coughing. Moderate consumption can help alleviate fatigue, provide energy, and possibly improve symptoms such as sore throat and coughing that may occur during menstruation. The sweetness of rock sugar can improve poor appetite during menstruation and enhance the flavor and palatability of food. However, intake should be controlled to avoid excessive sugar consumption.
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, rock sugar is considered neutral with a slightly cooling property. Women with a cold-deficient constitution or significant menstrual cramps may experience increased uterine contractions and worsening dysmenorrhea if they consume excessive amounts of rock sugar. Diabetic patients or individuals with insulin resistance may experience significant fluctuations in blood glucose levels after consuming rock sugar, thereby increasing metabolic burden. For individuals with concurrent gynecological inflammation or a tendency to develop mouth ulcers, high sugar intake might promote the growth of pathogenic bacteria and hinder recovery, so consumption should be cautious.
Menstrual dietary recommendations emphasize warmth and avoiding cold foods. Rock sugar can be added to warm beverages, such as brown sugar ginger tea, to enhance flavor. If menstrual irregularities, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or other endocrine disorders are present, strict medical guidance should be followed to control sugar intake.