A lot of women experience stomach cramps for a couple of days during their period. The problem is mostly felt in the lower part of the abdomen, although it’s not unlikely for it to radiate to the lower back as well as thighs.

If you’re one of those women who are bugged by stomach cramps every month while menstruating, then this article is made just for you. That’s because below you will find some helpful tips on how to keep stomach cramps to a minimum. See which of the following can make your monthly visit a lot more bearable:

Reduce Intake of Fat

The inclusion of fatty foods in your diet is a complete no-no. It will only worsen hormonal imbalance and blood sugar spikes going on in your body during your period, thus making those stomach cramps so much worse. But don’t eliminate healthy fat from your diet as they can actually help reduce the cramping you experience in the abdomen.

Steer Clear of Sweets

Just like unhealthy fat, sugar can make matters worse. While snacking on something sweet can make things seem more bearable, the fact is you’re only adding fire to the fuel. If you want to please your sweet tooth and attain comfort during a bout of stomach cramps, it’s a much better idea for you to get your hands on some fresh fruits.

Consume Fiber-Rich Foods

Speaking of fruits, your diet should be high in fiber if stomach cramps during your period are bothering you. Experts say that fiber actually helps flush excess estrogen levels out of the body, thus helping to restore normal hormone balance. Make sure that you serve more fruits and vegetables in front of you to attain relief from stomach cramps.

Throw in Some Oily Fish

Fatty or oily fish should also be a staple in your diet if you’re prone to experiencing stomach cramps on a monthly basis.  It’s for the fact that they contain omega-3 fatty acids that help reduce inflammation and encourage proper balance of hormones in the body. Some of the best ones to eat include mackerel, herring, trout, mackerel and sardines.

Snack on Seeds and Nuts, Too

You may also obtain good amounts of omega-3 fatty acids from various seeds and nuts, so enjoying a handful when experiencing stomach cramps is actually good for you. You can sprinkle some sesame seeds or chia seeds on your oatmeal, or simply snack on some almonds, walnuts or pistachios for much-needed relief.

Turn to Peppermint Tea

A lot of women who are bugged by those darned stomach cramps while menstruating swear by the effectiveness of consuming peppermint tea a handful of times a day. If you cannot whip up a cup of peppermint tea, fret not because there is an easier herbal tea to make that can help relieve stomach cramps, and that’s ginger tea.

Increase Fluid Intake

Everyone knows how important it is to keep the body dehydrated. When facing stomach cramps due to your period, drinking up to about 2 liters of water a day can be so helpful. You wouldn’t want to end up dehydrated because it’s something that will only make your stomach cramps as well as other weird symptoms seem worse.

Stay Away From Caffeinated Drinks

It’s important to note that the consumption of coffee should be avoided because caffeine in it will only dehydrate you, and being dehydrated, as mentioned above, can make everything go downhill further. It’s not just coffee that you should ditch during your period, but any other beverage that has caffeine in it like soda, black tea and energy drinks.

Count on a Hot Water Bag

Last but not least, you can minimize that stomach cramp by placing a hot water bag right where it hurts ­ — on your lower abdomen. If you have no access to a hot water bag, there is a workaround. All you have to do is soak a dish towel in hot water. Wring out excess, fold neatly, and place on your belly.

Don’t forget to share this on social media to let your family and friends know how to naturally deal with those annoying stomach cramps during their period.