Increase Pain, These Foods Should Be Avoided During Menstruation

Illustration of menstrual pain (Image: Pexels/Sora Shimazaki)

JAKARTA - When women have menstruation every month, discomfort, fatigue, and pain are often unavoidable. Quoted from the Cleveland Clinic, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, menstrual pain is caused by the tightening and relaxation of the uterus.

The muscles in the uterus contract to release the lining in the uterus. Often women who experience menstrual pain use pain relievers.

In fact, besides using medicine, paying attention to the food consumed during menstruation must also be done. This is because there are several types of foods that should be avoided during menstruation because they increase pain, as below.

1. Processed foods

Processed foods such as chips, frozen foods, and instant noodles are often an alternative to eat when hunger strikes and during menstruation. However, these foods are high in sodium which can cause water retention and bloating, which can certainly worsen the symptoms of pain during menstruation.

2. Sweet snacks

Sweet foods are often referred to as mood enhancers or mood boosters when menstrual pain strikes. However, sweet foods such as cakes, ice cream, and candy are foods that should not be consumed during menstruation.

This is because the processed sugar in it can cause spikes and drops in blood sugar levels, which result in mood changes, fatigue, and worsen the desire to eat during menstruation.

"Very sweet foods will increase insulin. When insulin levels are high, it can cause hormonal imbalances in female factors," said obstetrician, Cristina McClure, DO.

3. Spicy food

Spicy food is also a food that should be avoided during menstruation. This food can upset the stomach, causing diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea.

These various conditions will eventually make menstrual pain increase. You will also experience discomfort that can interfere with daily activities.