By Victoria Q

Let’s be honest, many people get emotional and have cramps before and during their period. Most women, over 90% , say they get some premenstrual symptoms, such as bloating, headaches and moodiness. Some may get severe that affect their daily activities such as working, walking and even sleeping. However, these symptoms tend to go away within 4 days after beginning your period.

Although the hormonal changes each period, you can make your period go smoothly following the steps below.

1. Download A Period Tracker App

A period tracker app can help you calculate the average length of your cycle which will be used to help you predict your next period. Keeping a period tracker can track how you feel especially 2 to 3 days before your period starts. Since the app already predicts your next period, you may also schedule your busy day ahead so that it won’t affect your works.

2. Avoid Stress

If you know you’re more emotional than usual, grab lunch or dinner with friends and spend time with them. It’s important not to keep all the stress by yourself and rather, talk to your friends or families if you’re having any problems. You can also try out some meditation and breathing exercise to calm yourself down when you’re overwhelmed with stress.

3. Get Exercise

Exercise is proven to help balance your hormones calm down and reduce mood swings. It helps improve your mood by boosting brain chemicals called endorphins which may reduce the amount of pain you feel from PMS. Taking a brisk wall once a day or working in the yard is a great way to increase your happiness level. Also, getting outside in the sun helps freshen your mind.

4. Eat Well

PMS can cause food cravings. High protein foods such as eggs, chicken, nuts, tofu, seeds and beans can keep you feeling fuller for longer and help decrease the urges of overeating. It’s important to eat all food groups to get the best nutrients out there. If you’re craving carbohydrates, reach for complex carbs such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables.

5. Snack On dark Chocolate

When you’re craving sugary food, snack on dark chocolate is better than candy. Dark chocolate has mood-stabilizing content like magnesium which can regulate mood swings. It is also rich in iron to help relieve period cramps. Aim for at least 80% dark chocolate which is lower in fats and sugars than regular chocolate.

6. Get Plenty Of Sleep

Period fatigue is real and it can be further impacted by period pain. Getting good rest can help repair your body and mind. Some people need more than 10 hours of sleep during their period and some only need 8 hours. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, especially while on your period.

7. Avoid Caffeine

Caffeine can irritate your stomach and gives you that achy, crampy, bloated feeling. It can also increase your anxiety level. Instead, get a cup of hot tea such as ginger, green tea, peppermint, chamomile or raspberry to reduce bloating and feel better on your period.