Water, Water, Water
Staying hydrated won’t curb your cramping directly, but it can help with bloating, which makes cramps feel worse. When your period is coming, keep a water bottle handy, and toss in some mint or a squeeze of lemon to encourage you to drink. Tone down the salt (never more than 2,300 milligrams per day) and avoid alcohol — both of which can pull water out of your system.
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Comfort Foods
Doughnuts, potato chips, and other fatty fried foods are not your friends. Stick to a low-fat, high-fiber diet: whole grains, lentils and beans, vegetables (especially leafy dark-green ones), fruits, and nuts.
Nutrients such as vitamins E, B1, and B6, magnesium, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids cut back on the hormone-like substances responsible for those painful cramps or help relieve muscle tension and inflammation.
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Pop a Pill
Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium lessen pain and make you cramp less overall. Keep a small stash in your makeup bag or car so you’re not searching when you need it most. Bonus: Ibuprofen and naproxen can also help make your flow a little lighter.
Hit It With Heat
These days, you don’t need to plug in to get the benefit of warm, relaxing relief. Whether you’re on a date or at your desk, you have options. Check out microwavable heat pads, rechargeable cordless heat wraps, or disposable heat wraps designed just for menstrual cramps. Many drugstores carry a few choices if you’re on the go.
Get Moving
While there isn’t much evidence that working out targets period pain, many women swear by a sweat session to loosen up. Exercise releases brain chemicals called endorphins that make you feel good. So take a walk, jump on the treadmill, or go for a swim!
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Treat Yourself to a Bath
Fill the tub, add some bubbles, and settle in with your favorite magazine or book (and your rubber ducky). The warm water will help calm your muscles and your mind. Don’t have a bathtub? A warm shower can be soothing, too.