Flaxseeds can help ease period pain! 5 ways to deal with period pain

Taking flaxseeds during menstruation can help you for a few weeks. Flaxseeds help reduce inflammation and regulate hormones in the body.

Ditch the antibiotics – flaxseeds can be a powerful addition to your period pain relief pack! Not only do they reduce pain, they can also help regulate your cycle, increase your chances of ovulation, and balance your estrogen levels. They’re also super versatile! You can grate them and add them to a variety of foods, including baked goods. They can be consumed as oil or made into tea. Taking flaxseed for period pain can be effective in just 30 days. However, consuming too much of it can cause many health problems, including heavy bleeding. Read on to learn about these seeds and how much to eat.

What is flaxseed?

Flaxseed or linseed is a small oil seed known for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and antioxidants. They come from the Middle East and use different types, including whole seeds, ground seeds and oil. Flaxseed is rich in lignans and healthy fats, so it aids digestion, lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. They can be easily incorporated into foods and most diets for better absorption of nutrients. Eating flaxseeds is also great for weight loss and fertility.

Flaxseed for Period Pain: How It Can Help?

1. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids

Flaxseed is rich in omega-3s, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce menstrual cramps and discomfort. A study published in the European Journal of Medical Research noted that flaxseed oil has anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antibacterial properties.

2. Lignans

These phytoestrogens are estrogen-like compounds derived from plants that help balance estrogen levels. This will help reduce symptoms associated with hormonal changes during menstruation. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism noted that the concentration of lignans in urine during menstruation helps balance hormones.

3. Contains lots of fiber

The fiber in flaxseed aids in digestion and helps regulate insulin levels. This also helps with hormonal balance and reduces PMS symptoms. A study published in the Journal Healthcare noted that the seeds may also have a beneficial effect on the gut microbiome due to their high soluble fiber content.

4. Regulates hormones

The diet may improve ovulation and increase progesterone levels, thereby reducing the severity of menstrual cycles. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism noted that consuming more seeds can prolong the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.

Flaxseed for Painful Periods: How to Add It to Your Diet

Use flaxseed to relieve period pain, consider the following:

• Ground flaxseed – Add 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal daily. Ground seeds are easy to digest and increase absorption.
• Flaxseed Oil – Use flaxseed oil in dressings or smoothies. Eating 1-2 tablespoons daily provides omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation.
• Baked Goods – Add ground flaxseed to baked goods like bread or muffins. This way, you can seamlessly integrate them into your diet.
• Seed Cycle – Follow the seed cycle by consuming flaxseed during the follicular phase (first two weeks) and switching to other seeds like pumpkin or sesame during the luteal phase.
• Flaxseed Tea – Steam ground flaxseed in hot water to make a soothing tea that can help reduce pain. Regular consumption can help balance hormones and reduce menstrual cramps because they contains lignans and omega-3 fatty acids.

How many flaxseeds should you eat per day?

The recommended daily intake of flaxseed varies, but about 1 to 2 tablespoons (7-14 grams) of ground flaxseed per day is good. Up to 4 to 5 tablespoons (28-35 grams) is safe to eat, especially for those looking to increase their fiber intake while avoiding digestive issues. It’s important to start with a low dose and gradually increase to gauge tolerance.

How long does it take for flaxseeds to relieve period pain?

Flaxseed can start to reduce colds within a month when consumed regularly. A study published in the European Journal of Breast Health showed that participants who consumed flaxseed daily for 30 days experienced a reduction in pain score (VAS), and the improvement continued after three months and for months after. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 fatty acids and the hormonal balancing properties from the lignans in flaxseeds help reduce this condition, making flaxseeds a dietary supplement for managing menstrual discomfort.

The side effects of flaxseed on period pain

Flaxseed can have many side effects, especially for women who use flaxseed to relieve period pain:

• Menorrhagia – Flaxseed contains phytoestrogens that can affect hormonal balance and cause heavy bleeding, especially in people with conditions such as fibroids or endometriosis.
• Gastrointestinal problems – The high fiber content can cause bloating, gas, constipation, or diarrhea, especially when eaten in large quantities without adequate water.
• Breast tenderness – The phytoestrogens in flaxseed can cause hormonal changes and cause breast tenderness in some women.
• Intestinal blockage – Not drinking enough water while consuming flaxseed can cause intestinal blockage due to its gel-forming fibers.
• Allergic reactions – Some people may experience allergic reactions such as itching, bloating, or abdominal discomfort.

However, it is recommended that you consult a doctor before adding flaxseed to your diet, especially if you have underlying health problems.