Coffee – The Caffeinated Drink of Comfort
Coffee is one of the most popular caffeinated drinks in the world, and something we see in coffee shops, offices, and homes everywhere. Coffee is known for its wide array of health benefits, from aiding in better mental focus to improving digestion, but can coffee provide comfort and relief from menstrual cramps as well?
Drinking coffee during periods has become a common practice for many women to ease their menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that small amounts of caffeine can potentially offer pain relief for some women, but is it really the best choice to make?
Indulging in Coffee During Periods – The Overview
Coffee is made from acidic roasted coffee beans, and infuses drinkers with caffeine, as well as antioxidants, which are believed to offer health benefits. Coffee also triggers a release of serotonin in the brain, which is thought to regulate the hormones that cause menstrual cramps. So, it isn’t a surprise that coffee, as a source of all of these benefits, may provide some relief from the pains of periods.
Several studies have been conducted on the effects of drinking coffee on period pain, and the findings are quite varied. While some studies found that drinking coffee can exert a positive effect on menstrual cramps, others suggest that it can even make the pain worse. One study revealed that drinking a small to moderate amount of coffee a day when not on period had a positive impact on the cramps during period. Meanwhile, some other studies have found that women who drank too much coffee on their periods experienced more pain and discomfort than those who didn’t.
Keep A Balance
Due to the conflicting results, it’s difficult to draw a definitive conclusion about whether or not coffee can provide relief for menstrual cramps. It seems clear, however, that moderation is key – too little or too much can both lead to an increase in discomfort. So, if you want to benefit from the effects of drinking coffee during your period, be sure to drink it in moderation.
Keeping a balanced approach is important, too. Drinking coffee shouldn’t be a substitute for getting the proper amount of rest and fluids, eating a balanced diet, and becoming physically active. These things should be part of any health routine, with adding coffee if desired.
What Else Should I Be Aware Of?
When drinking coffee during periods, it is also important to be aware of potential risks, including insomnia, restlessness, and dehydration. Long-term side effects, such as addiction and a slowed metabolism, may also become a factor if too much coffee is consumed over a lengthy period of time. Also, if you’re pregnant or are trying to conceive, it might be best to avoid coffee altogether, as caffeine consumption has a possibly adverse impact on fertility.
It’s also important to keep in mind that everyone’s body is different and reacts differently to caffeine. What works for one person may not work for another. So, it’s best to listen to your body and see if you can feel any improvements while drinking coffee. If you’re getting worse instead of better, then it is best to avoid coffee during your period entirely.
Should You Drink Coffee On Your Period?
At the end of the day, the choice of whether to drink coffee during your period is an individual one. While research does suggest potential benefits, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone’s body is different. If you do choose to, then drinking coffee in moderation is key. Be on the lookout for negative side effects such as insomnia or restlessness, or the feeling that you are relying too much on coffee, and try to keep any consumption to only a couple of cups a day.
The Alternatives
If you’re not keen on drinking coffee, then there are alternatives to consider. Drinking tea may help you get the same nutrient benefits as coffee, as some varieties contain caffeine, while others provide anti-inflammatory agents. Also, many women find relief from menstrual cramps through dietary supplements and herbal remedies such as ginger, evening primrose oil, and turmeric. Exercising, stretching, and massage are also popular choices for reducing pain.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the decision of whether to drink coffee during periods is a very personal one. There are potential benefits, but keep in mind that everyone’s body works differently and may react to caffeine in different ways. If you do opt for coffee, then it’s best to drink it in moderation and also partake in other activities that can help. Also, don’t forget to listen to your body and see if you can feel any improvements while drinking coffee.
