Can I eat Ejiao cake during my menstrual period?
May 22, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
Ejiao cake has the effect of nourishing and activating the blood. Women with normal or heavy menstrual flow may experience further increases in menstrual volume after consumption, potentially leading to prolonged menstruation or persistent spotting. Long-term occurrence of these effects may result in health problems such as anemia, dizziness, fatigue, and other discomforts, which are detrimental to overall health. Ejiao cake has a relatively warming nature and is not recommended for women with a damp-heat constitution or those prone to excessive internal heat during their menstrual period.
Whether or not women can consume Ejiao cake (a traditional Chinese health product made from donkey-hide gelatin) during menstruation should be determined by considering their individual physical conditions and menstrual status. Women with normal or heavy menstrual flow, damp-heat constitution, or those prone to excessive internal heat should generally avoid it. However, women experiencing light menstruation and deficiency of both qi and blood may consume it moderately. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Ejiao cake is known for its effects of nourishing blood and promoting blood circulation. Women with normal or heavy menstrual flow may experience further increase in menstrual volume after consuming Ejiao cake, potentially leading to prolonged menstruation or prolonged spotting. Long-term occurrence of these issues may result in health problems such as anemia, dizziness, fatigue, and other discomforts, which are detrimental to overall health. Ejiao cake has a relatively warm nature, and women with damp-heat constitution or those prone to excessive internal heat should avoid consuming it during menstruation, as it may trigger or worsen symptoms of excessive heat such as dry mouth, sore throat, and constipation.
Women with light menstrual flow and short menstrual periods may consume Ejiao cake. Moderate consumption of Ejiao cake might help promote blood circulation and increase menstrual flow. However, intake should be controlled to avoid excessive consumption that may lead to menstrual disorders. Ejiao cake helps nourish blood and improve complexion. Women with symptoms of qi and blood deficiency, such as pale complexion and fatigue, may benefit from moderate consumption of Ejiao cake during menstruation to improve their physical condition. However, intake must also be controlled to avoid excessive nourishment.
During menstruation, it is important to maintain dietary balance, avoid excessively cold or highly stimulating foods, and maintain good lifestyle habits to promote overall health.
