9. Calcium
Everyone needs to have optimum levels of calcium in their bodies. Besides promoting the development of healthy bones, calcium also helps in the proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and an individual’s nervous system. Researchers have also found that adequate calcium among women helps alleviate menstrual cramps.
A recent study revealed that women that take supplements containing 100mg of calcium each day starting on the 15th day of their menstrual cycle until the end of their periods experienced reduced menstrual pains during the subsequent cycle.
Foods rich in calcium include dairy products like cheese and milk, greens such as broccoli, okra, spinach, kale, soya beans, tofu, nuts, bread (confectionaries made with fortified flour), and fish among others. As aforementioned, optimum levels of calcium in the body comes with dozens of other health benefits which makes it even more important. A meal rich in calcium and magnesium is about the perfect combination to combat menstrual cramps and promote general body health.
