Period Bloating: What is It and How to Reduce It

Many women experience bloating during their period, also known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It can make you feel like you’ve gained weight or like your abdomen or other parts of your body are tight or even swollen. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that up to 85 percent of women report physical symptoms related to their period. Bloating generally occurs a week or two before your period starts and will go away once menstruation has been occurring for a few days.

PMS occurs during the luteal phase of your menstrual cycle when the hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate and the lining of your uterus gets thicker. The thickened lining leaves your body with your period if you’re not pregnant. Other common symptoms associated with PMS include cramping, food cravings, moodiness, acne, and fatigue.

Betr health is the best lifestyle approach to reduce period bloating and PMS symptoms. This includes a low-sodium meal plan with lots of fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, drinking lots of water, skipping caffeine, limiting alcohol, avoiding all processed foods, and exercising regularly. As you move further through your betr journey, your intense symptoms should noticeably decrease making them more manageable.

Don't get discouraged if you experience a weight “plateau” or stall while bloated. Once your bloating subsides, you will usually see the scale move again. It’s important to make healthy eating choices each day to get the results you want - so don't give up!

- Sources: Recommendations/data from the Center for Disease Control, American Heart Association, and The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.