Can I eat bananas if I have dysmenorrhea?
Disease description:
I have a friend who suffers from severe dysmenorrhea but really wants to eat bananas. I'm not sure whether bananas will have any effect on her. May I ask if she can eat them?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
In general, women experiencing dysmenorrhea can eat bananas, but they should be consumed in moderation.
Dysmenorrhea is a common discomfort during menstruation for many women, characterized by lower abdominal pain. Potassium in bananas helps regulate the body's electrolyte balance and may help relieve muscle cramps that can occur during dysmenorrhea. Secondly, vitamin B6 helps the body synthesize serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a positive role in stabilizing mood and regulating pain perception. Additionally, bananas are rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps relax muscles and further alleviate discomfort associated with dysmenorrhea. Therefore, women with dysmenorrhea can consume bananas.
However, bananas are considered a cooling fruit. Women with a cold body constitution who consume excessive amounts during menstruation may experience worsening symptoms of dysmenorrhea, such as cold uterus, increased menstrual pain, or more blood clots. Moreover, bananas have a function of moistening the intestines and promoting bowel movements, and excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues. It is recommended to control intake when consuming bananas.
In daily diet, it is recommended to consume foods in appropriate amounts according to individual taste and needs, and to maintain a balanced diet to meet personal nutritional requirements.
