Periods are generally accompanied with numerous issues, ranging from cramps, weakness, mood swings, and even some digestive issues. But there are a few things we can do without going to an over-the-counter medicine shop. Such is the case with jaggery-a nutrient-rich sweetener that offers much more than just the sweetness. Many of us wonder if consuming jaggery during periods helps reduce the discomfort. In this blog, we shall discuss if women can consume jaggery during periods and what are some of the benefits.
Can women eat jaggery during periods?
Yes, women can eat jaggery during periods. Jaggery is a good source of iron. This aids in the formation of haemoglobin levels. Thus, it can be well taken by women suffering from excess weakness or fatigue during periods. It has anti-inflammatory properties that help relax the muscles to reduce menstrual cramps.
Benefits of eating jaggery during periods
Here are some of the benefits of eating jaggery during periods.
- Relieves menstrual cramps
- Boosts energy
- Reduces mood swings
- Improves digestion
- Satisfies sugar cravings
Let us discuss these benefits in details.
1. Jaggery helps relieve menstrual cramps
Jaggery is anti-inflammatory and muscles relaxing, thus preventing cramping. The essential minerals found in jaggery are known as magnesium, which is a strong factor in soothing tensed muscles, thereby effectively becoming a natural pain reliever for menstrual cramps. A small amount of jaggery consumed during periods soothes discomfort and eases cramping.
2. It boosts energy levels
Jaggery is an excellent natural source of iron and accelerates the haemoglobin in the blood. Most women suffering from periods experience fatigue because of the blood losses, so jaggery used can be an energy booster for them. Unlike refined sugar, jaggery releases its energy in a slow manner, keeping you full of energy for the whole day without giving you a hangover, like that after eating sugary snacks.
3. Jaggery reduces mood swings
Menstruation will generally result in some mood swings due to hormonal imbalance. Jaggery will stimulate the endorphin hormones, commonly known as "feel-good" hormones; a small amount of jaggery will reduce irritation and anxiety and other mood swings that may give a sense of calm.
4. It improves the digestive system
Most women experience a few gut problems, such as bloating and constipation, during menstruation. Jaggery stimulates digestion as it activates digestive enzymes, therefore improving digestion and helping alleviate the discomfort of bloating. This may be of great help during menstruation when the body slows down its digestion mechanism.
5. Controls Sweet Tooth Cravings
Sometimes, people crave sweet things; thus, jaggery would be more useful to be replaced by refined sugar - less nutritional value. It quenches the craving for sweets but brings necessary nutrients like iron and magnesium inside the body, thereby making it even more rewarding during menstruation.
How much jaggery should a women eat
You can take moderate amounts of jaggery during periods. Taking about a teaspoonful or 5-10 grams in a day usually should work for the person without the overindulgence in sugar. Though jaggery is rich in iron, magnesium, and other minerals, it is still sugar; the excessive intake may shoot your blood sugar levels or make you gain weight.
Here are some signs of excessive sugar spike in the body during menstruation
- Fatigue
- Increased Thirst
- Frequent Urination
- Headaches
- Irritability
- Cravings for More Sugar
- Dizziness or Light-headedness
Which is better to eat, sugar or jaggery?
Jaggery is the better alternative for many reasons. Since jaggery is less processed than white sugar, it constitutes more vitamins and minerals. Another point is, the GI (Glycemic Index) of jaggery is considerably low compared to white sugar, meaning that the glucose in the blood will be increased at a slower rate. It leads to a constant supply of energy, and it also does not cause the sudden dips that often occur when one consumes refined sugar
Apart from serving as a digestive aid, jaggery helps trigger the release of digestive enzymes in detoxifying the liver and aids in overcoming frequent digestive issues such as bloating and constipation during the period.
Does jaggery increase period flow
The effect of jaggery on menstrual flow will vary for each, though on average, this is said to have a positive impact. Chemicals present in jaggery are said to work as a blood thinner; thus, it can have heavier periods in certain women. This effect might prove very beneficial for those women who suffer with light periods as it regulates or even promotes a healthy menstrual cycle.
On the other hand, while jaggery is said to raise haemoglobin levels, its consumption can also increase blood flow and bring a more regular and healthy menstrual cycle. Jaggery also contains nutrients that help balance hormones, an important role in the regular menstrual cycles.
Side effects of eating Jaggery during periods
While jaggery has many benefits, if taken during periods, one of the main negative impacts is its high content of sugar; it can cause a quick rise in blood sugar levels, thereby resulting in tiredness, mood swings, and a quick increase in cravings for sugar - a cycle of overconsumption that might indeed prompt weight gain and other metabolic problems if unchecked.
Another possible side effect is gastrointestinal discomfort. It is said that some females might experience bloating or uncomfortable digestion after eating jaggery, especially in large amounts.
On a final note
Although the taste and natural sweetness would no doubt curb our cravings, they also provide a boost of energy as well as lessen discomfort associated with the onset of menses, where iron and magnesium found in jaggery may make an overnight. Of course, moderation is good, but we really believe that adding jaggery to the diet would bring great benefits and help ease your experience with menstruation. Let us know your experience in the comments below.