Can women with dysmenorrhea eat durian?

Some people enjoy eating durian—a fruit that sparks controversy—while others strongly dislike it. Nevertheless, many women still relish durian for its exceptional nutritional value. So, can women with dysmenorrhea eat durian?

Can women with dysmenorrhea eat durian?

Yes, women experiencing dysmenorrhea may consume durian. As a warming and heat-inducing food, durian promotes blood circulation and helps dispel dampness and cold from the body upon digestion and absorption, thereby effectively alleviating dysmenorrhea symptoms. However, moderation is key—excessive consumption may cause “internal heat” (a traditional Chinese medicine concept referring to inflammatory or overheating conditions). Additionally, durian can help relieve abdominal coldness, elevate basal body temperature, strengthen the spleen and boost qi, and nourish the kidneys while enhancing yang energy. Moreover, durian’s distinctive aroma stimulates appetite and aids digestion by promoting gastrointestinal motility.

Dysmenorrhea refers to lower abdominal pain and distension occurring before, during, or shortly after menstruation, often accompanied by low back soreness or other discomforts. To prevent dysmenorrhea, attention should be paid to dietary regulation during menstruation. Cold-natured foods and medications—including those used for common colds—should be avoided both premenstrually and during menses, as they may induce blood stasis due to cold congealing, thereby worsening dysmenorrhea. Secondly, prolonged sitting should be avoided during menstruation. Extended sedentary periods reduce lower-body activity, leading to pelvic congestion and exacerbating dysmenorrhea symptoms—potentially impairing vascular health.

In daily life, maintain regular, balanced meals; avoid spicy, stimulating, or overly rich foods, and refrain from binge eating or staying up late. We hope this information proves helpful.