Understanding Your Menstrual Cycle: Nutrition and Herbal Remedies
The menstrual cycle is divided into various phases, each of which requires specific nutritional support to maintain balance and health. In this guide, we will explore optimal food choices and herbal remedies to enhance well-being during different stages of your cycle.
1. Menstrual Phase: Days 22-28
During the menstrual phase, the body sheds the uterine lining, leading to the loss of blood and tissue. To facilitate this process, it's essential to consider warming and invigorating herbs that promote smooth circulation.
Cinnamon is a beneficial herb during this phase. Known for its warming properties, it helps improve blood circulation and relieve menstrual discomfort. A delicious and nutritious dish that incorporates cinnamon is Cinnamon Beef.
To prepare, you will need:
- 4 grams of cinnamon
- 250 grams of beef
- Common seasonings such as ginger, salt, cooking wine, and green onions
Start by washing and slicing the cinnamon into 2 cm by 1 cm strips. Cut the beef into chunks and place both in a pot with an adequate amount of water. Add your seasonings and simmer until fully cooked. For added color and nutrition, consider including carrots and goji berries.
Note: Cinnamon is a warm spice and is best avoided in summer. Pregnant women and individuals with symptoms of internal heat or excessive menstrual flow should exercise caution when consuming cinnamon-based dishes.
2. Follicular Phase: Days 1-9
In the follicular phase, follicles begin to develop in the ovaries, with hormonal support essential for the growth of the uterine lining. To nourish this phase, focus on blood nourishing and kidney supporting foods.
Goji berries are an excellent choice for their sweet, neutral properties, supporting liver and kidney health while enhancing vision and lung function. A simple yet restorative dish is Goji Berry and Tremella Soup.
To make this dish:
- Soak a small piece of tremella mushroom until softened
- In a pot, simmer the tremella for about 10 minutes with just enough water to cover it
- Add 10-15 goji berries and continue simmering on low heat for 20-30 more minutes until the tremella becomes translucent
- Sweeten to taste with rock sugar if desired
Reminder: Goji berries are powerful and should be avoided by individuals with fevers, inflammation, or diarrhea. A daily intake of approximately 20 grams is adequate for healthy adults.
3. Ovulatory Phase: Days 10-12
Following the follicular phase, ovulation occurs when the matured follicle releases an egg. To support this exciting phase, it is crucial to focus on nourishing blood while promoting circulation.
Salvia Miltiorrhiza (Dan Shen) is a remarkable herb that offers similar benefits as the well-known Si Wu Tang. It provides blood nourishment and alleviates pain while calming the mind.
To prepare a nourishing dish with Dan Shen:
- Soak 500 grams of jellyfish skin in saltwater and prepare it
- Slice 15 grams of Dan Shen and add it to a pot with ginger and green onion
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 20 minutes
- Add the prepared jellyfish skin, plus salt, MSG, and sesame oil to taste
Caution: Dan Shen does not mix well with alkaline water, and dosages should remain within 9-15 grams to avoid potential allergic reactions such as itching or respiratory difficulties.
Conclusion
Understanding the different phases of your menstrual cycle allows for tailored nutritional support. Incorporating specific herbs and dietary choices can greatly enhance your comfort and overall health throughout the month.