It’s no secret that having your period can come with some uncomfortable symptoms that are often frustrating to deal with, from agonising cramps to a constant tummy ache, but one expert has given an insight into why your symptoms can be so much worse than they have to be.
Bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhoea and constipation are experienced by many women during their periods with hormones often playing havoc on the bowel and causing some tough times for people already struggling with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).IBS sufferers have to deal with abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, with pain after eating certain foods or from stress a daily occurrence.
Although each sufferer can display a unique set of symptoms, they can mimic symptoms of other diseases. According to the NHS around 13 million people in the UK suffer from IBS amounting to about one in six people. Women are more likely to suffer, with symptoms often developing in their 20s and 30s.
Taking to Instagram, gut health dietician Lesley Reid explained why hormones can make IBS symptoms so much worse. Lesley said: “So many women don’t realise how much our hormones affect our gut. So as oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate throughout your cycle it can really impact our digestion leading to uncomfortable symptoms.”
Although the expert has given a few tips to try and relax your gut and reduce your symptoms, she recommends gradually increasing your fibre and eating more leafy green veg and whole grains. She also suggests some gentle exercise and movement, with walking and yoga being two good options to help not only your gut but also your mood.
The final things are herbal remedies like peppermint tea that can aid and relax your digestion and relaxation techniques like meditation or breathing techniques.