Can I eat salty food during my menstrual period?
May 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Lu
Introduction
The human body needs to maintain a normal electrolyte balance during this stage, and a small amount of salt helps support nerve and muscle function. Sodium from salty foods can help maintain the body's electrolyte balance while also satisfying taste preferences. As long as salt intake is controlled and excessively salty or highly processed foods are avoided, it generally does not cause discomfort.
Generally speaking, it is acceptable to consume a moderate amount of salty food during menstruation. The detailed explanation is as follows:
During this phase, the body needs to maintain a normal electrolyte balance, and a small amount of salt helps support nerve and muscle function. Sodium in salty foods can help maintain the body's electrolyte balance while satisfying taste preferences. As long as salt intake is controlled and overly salty or processed foods are avoided, discomfort is generally not triggered.
If a woman experiences significant edema, bloating, or blood pressure fluctuations during her period, consuming excessive salty foods is not recommended. A high-salt diet may exacerbate water and sodium retention, leading to increased swelling or discomfort. This is especially important for individuals with existing chronic conditions such as hypertension, who should reduce salt intake to avoid compromising overall health.
Diet during menstruation should primarily be light and清淡, avoiding additional strain on the body from excessive salt consumption, thus ensuring dietary habits align with maintaining good health.
