Is it okay to eat Chinese bayberry during menstruation?

Mar 28, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I am 23 years old and really enjoy eating waxberries. I would like to know whether it's okay to eat waxberries during my menstrual period.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu

In general, women can eat Chinese bayberry during menstruation, but it should be consumed in moderation. Chinese bayberry is a nutrient-rich fruit containing various nutritional components such as protein, vitamins, fiber, pectin, and carbohydrates.

During menstruation, women may lose certain nutrients from their bodies, such as iron. Chinese bayberry contains iron, and moderate consumption can help replenish the nutrients lost and prevent anemia. The organic acids in Chinese bayberry, such as citric acid and lactic acid, can stimulate taste buds, promote secretion of digestive juices, aid digestion and absorption of food, and help alleviate loss of appetite that may occur during menstruation. The magnesium in Chinese bayberry has a calming effect and can help relieve irritability during menstruation to some extent.

However, it should be eaten in moderation. Chinese bayberry has a sour taste, and excessive consumption may stimulate excessive secretion of gastric acid, causing gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. Meanwhile, it is recommended that women maintain a balanced diet during menstruation and consume more foods rich in protein, iron, and other nutrients to replenish the body's needs.