What happens if you eat sour foods during your period?
May 11, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Aiming
Introduction
During menstruation, women can improve their appetite by moderately consuming sour foods. However, excessive intake of acidic foods may produce substances such as lactic acid and phosphoric acid during metabolism, which can chemically react with iron in the body and affect blood discharge, potentially causing dysmenorrhea. Moreover, eating too many sour foods may overstimulate gastric acid secretion, irritating the gastrointestinal mucosa and leading to indigestion symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.
Menstrual period refers to the time of menstruation. Consuming sour foods in moderation during this period can increase appetite, but excessive intake may lead to discomforts such as dysmenorrhea and indigestion. Therefore, sour foods should be eaten in moderation and not excessively. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Increased Appetite
Sour foods can promote gastric acid secretion and enhance appetite. Women who consume sour foods moderately during menstruation may experience improved appetite and better digestion.
2. Dysmenorrhea (Painful Menstruation)
Consuming too many sour foods during menstruation may result in byproducts like lactic acid and phosphoric acid during metabolism. These substances can chemically react with iron in the body, affecting blood expulsion and leading to menstrual pain symptoms such as abdominal pain and lower back soreness.
3. Indigestion
The gastrointestinal function is relatively weak during menstruation. Eating too many sour foods can overstimulate gastric acid secretion, irritating the gastrointestinal mucosa and causing indigestion symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain.
It is recommended to consume sour foods in moderation during the menstrual period. Diet should be nutritionally balanced, without picky eating, and avoid cold, raw, or spicy foods.
