I'm a fertility doctor - these are the food and drinks to AVOID when on your ... trends now
Suffering from bloating, cramps and a low mood for a few days each month is a tiresome norm for many women.
But could what you eat and drink while on your period be making your symptoms worse?
While experts say some women do just suffer more with PMS or cycle-related symptoms, there could be nutritional factors exacerbating them.
MailOnline spoke to experts about all the food and drinks to avoid when on your period.
Could what you eat and drink while on your period be making your symptoms worse? Anyone who menstruates will be able to tell you that their mood, body image, shape, performance and sleep all change throughout their cycle.
When on your period it's natural to reach for a big bag of crisps.
But eating too much salty food can leave the tummy feeling swollen and bloated - much like the sensation experienced just before, or during, your period.
This is because the body retains extra sodium, according to Ro Huntriss, a London-based consultant fertility dietitian and founder of Fertility Dietitian UK.
In turn, the amount of fluid held in the body rises by around 1.5 litres.
High salt levels tend to be found in overly processed and packaged foods, like crisps and processed meats.
It is recommended to opt for fresh, whole foods when on your period, and to season meals with herbs and spices rather than salt to help reduce water retention.
Sugary treatsEating foods packed with refined sugar can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash later in the day.
Experts say this can worsen mood swings, fatigue and irritability that are already commonly experienced during menstruation. It can also contribute to a general feeling of instability or feeling overwhelmed.
And one 2018 study in BMC Women's Health found that women who ate more sugary snack foods throughout the month suffered increased period pains compared to those who ate less added sugar.
Trying to curb any sweet cravings with fruits, natural sweeteners or snacks with a balance of protein and fibre can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, according to Sophie Dillon, a London-based nutritionist.
Fatty and fried foodsFoods high in saturated fats, such as deep-fried snacks, fattier cuts of meats,
